My Geometry class is pretty bright and very social. I was trying to talk about angles with them while they were trying to discuss physical appearance with each other. So I thought I’d try humor, and made up a joke. I said, “You know, you can be a cute girl and still be obtuse.”
None of them got the joke. Does anyone else find that ironic?
Well...you could look at it as they were so rapped up in there own conversation....meaning deep in their thoughts they did not get it. Or some may only know obtuse as an angle, not the definition lacking intelligence.
ReplyDeleteI am always fascinated by cultural differences. While living in Quebec, it became very clear to me that much of french humor is based on word play. It is witty and charming in many ways. I love this kind of thing. It keeps one on their toes and helps learn the many ways in which words are used. Unfortunately, much of what passes for humor these days is sarcastic and at someone's expense. But I for one appreciate your attempt at humor...and at education. What a lovely quality for a teacher to have. Good show, Tony!
ReplyDeleteMichele
Yes, I agree. I think their reaction pretty much proves your point. I wonder, though, if what we are seeing is not so much a lack of education as a stronger separation of generational cultures than has ever happened before. I also wonder how much of students' socialability has to do with forming relationships and how much has to do with avoiding schoolwork! Helen B.
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