Intellectual Character: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Get It

I have taught for fourteen years in a high school classroom in the same school. My new principal suggested this book for me to spark some energy in my teaching. I will start classes this week and I am excited to utilize some of the things I have learned in this book.

A wonderful read to support learning in the classroom. Our entire staff used this book for our book club. I would recommend it for all educators.

Wonderful, full of insight on the classrooms and even for parenting. A must-read, especially for teachers.

Great book. Worth every cent. Everyone should read this and help themselves achieve potential.

Satisfied with my purchase.

First, let me agree with the other reviewers that this book is well written, better than most. For that, a 5. His first chapter on the definition of "intellectual disposition" and "character" is not tedious (thankfully) and is quite well written. For that, a 5. In addition, his emphasis on the practical classroom-based implementation of strategies is very engaging. For that also, a 5.However, Ritchhart's emphasis on process and content of thinking ignores one thing--the outcome. How is one to know when intellectual character has been achieved? And, assuming one has intellectual character, does it lead to better scores (gasp!)? Sorry, friends, outcome does matter. For this, a 1.So, overall, a 3. Great in some places, absent in others. This leaves the book firmly grounded in liberal/process/metacognitive theories of education. These theories are interesting to read but (1) difficult to implement (and, by the way, require intellectually oriented teachers), and (2) are absent demonstrated outcome.

I really had to work hard at his book.

I found many useful ideas to immediately use in the classroom.