Prompt 2 (Skepticism): Using course material (e.g. Hecht's History of Doubt, Rovelli and modern science, Holt's qualia, Berkeley's Three Dialogues etc.) outline 2-3 central reasons we might be skeptical of appearances/the status quo, then give your own argument for whether--if not, why, and if so, how--we ought to contain that skepticism.

English Language Arts

• The Seventh-grade child has explored different perspectives on skepticism through reading and analyzing texts such as Hecht's History of Doubt and Berkeley's Three Dialogues.
• They have practiced critical thinking and argumentation skills by constructing their own arguments related to skepticism.
• They have worked on enhancing their writing skills by composing persuasive essays or responses to prompts related to skepticism and appearances.

History

• Through the study of Hecht's History of Doubt and its historical context, the Seventh-grade child has gained an understanding of how skepticism has evolved over time and its impact on society.
• They have explored influential figures such as Berkeley and their contributions to the discourse on skepticism and the status quo.
• They have engaged in discussions and debates about how skepticism has influenced historical events and societal changes.

Math

• The Seventh-grade child has applied critical thinking skills to analyze the relevance of skepticism in the context of mathematical concepts and principles.
• They have explored the role of skepticism in the development and evolution of mathematical theories and paradigms.
• They have practiced using logical reasoning to evaluate the validity of mathematical assumptions and the implications of skepticism in mathematical reasoning.

Encourage the Seventh-grade child to continue developing their critical thinking skills by exploring real-world examples of skepticism and its impact on different domains. They can also practice expressing their thoughts and arguments through creative writing or multimedia presentations, allowing them to apply their understanding of skepticism to various contexts.

Book Recommendations

• The Ghost Map: The Story of London's Most Terrifying Epidemic – and How It Changed Science, Cities, and the Modern World by Steven Johnson: This book explores the skepticism and doubt surrounding the understanding of diseases and epidemics in history, offering insights into the importance of challenging the status quo in scientific and societal contexts.
• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer: This inspiring true story illustrates the power of skepticism and innovation in the face of adversity, showcasing the impact of questioning appearances and striving for change.
• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster: Through the adventures of a young boy named Milo, this imaginative tale encourages readers to question the status quo and embrace the wonder of skepticism as a tool for personal growth and exploration.