A “smart” science lesson

Intelligence, from a scientific perspective, is a broad, and deep comprehension—”catching on,” “making sense,” of things, or “figuring out” what to do. The average IQ falls between a range of 90 and 110. An important disclaimer, however, is that intelligence tests do not measure creativity, character, personality, or other important differences among individuals, nor are they intended to. The notion that our intelligence is influenced by our genes has shifted from “taboo” to common acceptance. There are three genes associated with academic achievement: Dat 1, Dat 2, and Dat 3. Those with a particular combination of these genes are more likely to finish high school and go to college (Dat’s what’s up).

How about the influence of nature and nurture when it comes to intelligence? It’s true that 50 percent of educational achievement can be attributed to genetics. Intelligence, however, does not entirely originate in our genes. Those reinforced with the concept that intelligence is expandable are more likely to keep trying and succeed. Children who live in chaotic homes or have negative, punitive parents are more likely to perform worse in math.

To learn more about the science of smart and to view a brief correlation study between wealth and IQ, check out the infographic below presented by BestCollegeReviews.org.

* * *

“Brain” image courtesy of Shutterstock.