Aim: How do we interpret “Harrison Bergeron” through the lens of brain science?
Quick Write: Rate yourself as a multi-tasker on a 1 to 10 scale and explain why you give yourself that rating. (10 is the best score and 1
is the lowest.) Share your answer with a partner and/or the class and explain
why you gave yourself this score.
Are you
multitasking now? Are you in “receive mode” for text messages? Are you secretly
signed into your Facebook account? When was the last time you checked for
messages or email? Be honest! In this lesson, we'll read the latest brain science research on multitasking, interpreting "Harrison
Bergeron" by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. through that critical lens.
Step 1: Read the article "Brain, Interrupted" for the answers to these questions:
2. What
were the results of the experiment?
1. Describe
the experiment that was designed to show whether distractions make us “dumber.”
3. What is the possible explanation for the “On High Alert” group performing even better than the control group who was left alone?
4. Did you miss any important points in the article because someone or something distracted you? If so, do you believe it was because you are addicted to messaging or because you were robbed of brain power? Explain.
5. Based on "Brain, Interrupted", do you believe the United States Handicapper General in "Harrison Bergeron” made an effective use of distractions to create an equal society? Explain.
Step 2: For further reading on multi-tasking, check out this short article or research an article of your own.
Step 3: Put yourself in the head of George or Hazel Bergeron. Is your government using distractions effectively to create an equal society? Why or why not? Write a script and put it into a podcast. Check out a free account at Audioboo for recording your podcast. To share a podcast from your phone or computer check out a free account at SoundCloud.
Final Reflection: Now how do
you rate yourself as a multi-tasker and why?
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