47 Chapter 1 Learning About Children
18. Science (Brain Research).
Research the anatomy of the
brain and create a presentation
illustrating the various parts.
You could also choose to
research more about brain
development and design a
presentation showing how
stimulation changes the wiring
of the brain.
19. Social Studies. Havighurst
said one source for
developmental tasks comes
from social pressures. Given
the situations in society today,
what developmental tasks do
you predict will be important for
future children? Why?
20. Reading, Writing, Career
Study. Read about the life of a
famous person in any career.
Write a report giving examples
of constancy in the person’s
growth and development. How
did this constancy lead to fame
in his or her career? Check
your report for correct spelling,
grammar, and punctuation.
21. Speech, Career Study.
Interview a person working
with children in a child-related
career such as a child care
teacher or child care provider.
What characteristics does
this person need to work with
children? What are the job
responsibilities? What are
the educational and training
requirements for the career?
Share your fi ndings with
the class.
Making Observations
22. In small groups, observe
a group of people. List
characteristics you see that
are due to heredity and
characteristics you see that are
due to environment. Compare
and discuss your lists in class.
23. Observe infants or toddlers
and note examples you see
that illustrate the principles of
development.
Thinking Critically
24. With a group of classmates,
list some ways society is
child-centered and some ways
society is adult-centered.
Discuss your lists. Can a society
resolve these dual interests?
How can a new family fi nd a
balance for a happier family life?
25. If you were asked to recruit
other students in your school
to take a child development
course, what would you say
or do to convince them child
development is a worthwhile
subject? Be specifi c and
explain the reason behind your
idea(s).
26. With a small group, discuss
how areas of development are
interrelated. Each group should
trace the effects of a different
problem, such as poor nutrition
or lack of affection, on all areas
of development.