1. Whistling Vivaldi
Chapter 2

2. downwardly constitute
incisive
foci
stigma
gingerly
nascent
empirical test
Write down the Vocabulary words and what the terms mean. Identify where in the Chapter you came across these words and their subsequent definitions.

3. Steele describes the difference between the observer and the actor perspectives.
What are the differences between the two perspectives?
Why were these two perspectives essential for Steele and others to gain understanding about underperformance on college campuses?
Discussion Question #1

4. Steele discusses how important campus culture is to a student’s sense of identity and sense of belonging. What do you feel is the campus culture here at Foothill? Do you feel like you belong? Explain what causes you to feel this way? How many friends do you have on campus? Do you have friends that are very different from you in culture, age, or race?
Discussion Question #2

5. How did Ms. Jane Elliot’s 1968 experiment influence Steele’s research question?
Discussion Question #3

6. In this chapter Steele describes the process of moving from a hunch to an inference to evidence. Describe the importance and difference of these three terms as they relate to Steele’s work.
Discussion Question #4

7. How did Steele and his colleague rule out genetic differences for women’s underperformance in math?
Discussion Question #5

8. What were the results of Steele’s study with women in math?
Were you surprised by these results?
How does it shift your view of stereotypes and academic ability?
Discussion Question #6