The Riddle of Intelligence (Advanced 3 Student Book)

# The Riddle of Intelligence ## A: Nature vs Nurture? - How do child prodigies come about? This is a question that has perplexed scientists for a long time. - Recent studies are beginning to explore the cultural and biological foundations of prodigious talent. - Research suggests that the brains o...

# The Riddle of Intelligence ## A: Nature vs Nurture? - How do child prodigies come about? This is a question that has perplexed scientists for a long time. - Recent studies are beginning to explore the cultural and biological foundations of prodigious talent. - Research suggests that the brains of prodigies function in unique ways compared to those of average children. - But, the ultimate question remains: Are prodigies born with their talents, or can they be nurtured through their environment? ## B: Prodigies Can Emerge Anywhere - Geography and ethnicity play no role in the emergence of prodigies. - Prodigies can appear anywhere, and Asia has a disproportionately high number of them. - In previous generations, poverty, lack of education, and limited opportunities might have hidden some prodigious talent. - However, the increasing wealth and ambition of the middle class have led to a boom in the identification and development of prodigious youngsters, as evidenced by studies of outstanding physics and chemistry students in Taiwan. ## C: The Definition of a Prodigy - While many children are exceptionally smart and talented, only a few are classified as prodigies. - A prodigy is defined as a child who exhibits an advanced mastery of a field by the age of 10, a level of skill usually expected of adults. - As psychologist Ellen Winner points out, if parents have to question whether their child is a prodigy, they probably are not. ## D: The Case of Abigail Sin, a Musical Prodigy - Abigail Sin, a Singaporean pianist, embodies the defining traits of a prodigy. - She began reading at age 2, excels in math, but truly stands out for her musical talent. - At age 10, she is already a celebrated pianist and has earned recognition as a prodigy. - Abigail demonstrates the hallmark of a prodigy - a deep, single-minded "rage to learn" that drives her to master her skills. - Her dedication to mastering the piano is evident in her extensive practice schedule. - Her twin brother exhibits similar talents in math, but his drive and passion for music are not as pronounced as Abigail's. ## E: Neuroscience and the Prodigy Brain - Researchers are uncovering the neurological differences between the brains of prodigies and their peers. - Advancements in fMRI technology are revealing how different parts of the brain activate during various mental activities. - Scientists are exploring the distinct brain activity patterns observed in prodigies, specifically in areas related to mathematical and musical abilities. ## F: Unique Brain Activity in Prodigies - Studies using fMRI scans have shown notable differences in the brain activity of mathematically gifted children. - Compared to average children, prodigies have significantly more metabolic activity in the right side of their brains, an area associated with pattern recognition and spatial awareness. - They also exhibit increased activity in the frontal lobes, which play a crucial role in executive function and concentration. ## G: The Brain's Flexibility and Efficiency - O'Boyle believes that prodigious brains possess the ability to efficiently switch between the left and right hemispheres, effectively utilizing resources while minimizing distractions. - This mental flexibility might explain their ability to focus and excel in their chosen fields, demonstrating a remarkable ability to utilize mental resources. - While prodigies might not have physically different brains than other children, they appear to have a remarkable ability to concentrate and make full use of their cognitive potential. ## H: Nature Versus Nurture - The debate over whether prodigious talent is innate or developed continues. - While some argue for a predisposition towards certain abilities, others emphasize the important role of upbringing and deliberate practice. - The Suzuki Method, a renowned music education approach, emphasizes the role of early training and practice in developing skills. - Even those who believe in innate talent agree that nurture plays a significant part in whether that talent is cultivated or squandered. - Prodigies are often described as a combination of inborn potential and nurtured skill, with early recognition playing a critical role. ## I: The Importance of Childhood - The authors emphasize the importance of allowing prodigies to maintain a healthy childhood despite their remarkable abilities. - They should not be pushed into an adult world too early, and their need to be children should be respected. - Parents and mentors play a crucial role in providing a stimulating environment for prodigies and nurturing their development without denying them the experiences of childhood. - Even prodigies, like talented musician Abigail Sin, need the opportunity to simply enjoy being kids. This document provides a broad overview of the nature of prodigies as described in the text. It addresses the different ways scientists and experts try to answer the questions of "nature vs nurture" and how the brain of a prodigy works.