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Gerald Graff Hidden Intellectualism

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In “Hidden Intellectualism” by Gerald Graff, he claims that intellect does not just exist in academics. Graff insists that street smarts can also be a form of knowledge. In addition, he claims that even if individuals do poorly in school, it doesn’t mean that they aren’t smart. It could just mean that they are very street-smart with a knowledge on different subjects. Furthermore, schools usually overlook street-smarts and associate them with non-intellectual interests. Graff thinks that students should find something they are actually interested in first so then they can build from there and eventually become intellectuals. Additionally he suggests that if they could somehow see these interests through “academic eyes” with language they understand, …show more content…
Graff’s claims address schools and universities all over and he doesn't forget to include their staff. Although he seems to blame this group, we have to understand that society is also a part of this conversation. Graff’s essay is a response to the way our school systems have been fulfilling their duties. State standards have been held high in many American schools for too long. Schools should be able to form their material to the students so it is easier to understand. It should be adaptable and not so black and white. Students are expected to commit their time and give their full attention to the material presented to them and any of their personal interests or likes are expected to be brushed off. Graff notices the flaws in this way of teaching and suggests that the best way to persuade students into learning is to understand their interests. Looking at students’ likes from an academic perspective would be beneficial, in many aspects, to not only the student but to the instructor as well. In other words, Graff is demanding the attention of instructors, mentors, and board members who have forgotten the primary goal of

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