The Theory of Oz

What makes someone educated? Is it getting a perfect score on a standardized test or passing a prescribed curriculum? Is it landing a good job after high school? In this book, Howard Good answers these questions imaginatively using the beloved movie classic, The Wizard of Oz as a metaphor for the quest for a well-rounded education. It is the author's theory that the main characters in the story represent the four essential educational goals. Adding together what Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, and Dorothy want (brains, a heart, courage, and a home, respectively), gives you a complete education. Features: -A chapter devoted to each character of The Wizard of Oz and the object of his or her quest -An epilogue that examines what kind of teacher the Wizard is and how he could become a better one -Classroom activities that teachers can use to develop empathy, moral courage, a love of learning, and a sense of belonging Illustrated with many anecdotes from Good's experiences as a parent, teacher, and school board member, The Theory of Oz challenges education's current preoccupation with testing and sorting students according to one national standard. It provides inspiration as well as realistic advice for teachers and others interested in empowering students.