Lovecraftian horror is a unique type of terror that responds to the rapid scientific progress of our era, using scientific elements to lend eerie plausibility. Rather than recognizable monsters or graphic violence, the terror in Lovecraft's fiction lies in what's not directly portrayed, but left instead to the dark depths of our imagination. Lovecraft's protagonists often stumble onto hints of the existence of the Great Old Ones, beings that exist beyond our conceptions of reality, whose true forms are as inscrutable as their motives. Even indirect glimpses of them are enough to drive them insane. The Cthulhu Mythos, named after Lovecraft's infamous blend of dragon and octopus, is a shared universe adopted by a wide variety of authors, often reimagining them from diverse perspectives that transcend the author's prejudices. Learning about Lovecraftian horror will inspire you to independently explore academic topics through reading, reflection, writing, and self-directed projects.

Science is not about blindly accepting facts but questioning them. The Royal Society, the world's oldest independent scientific academy, confirms that questioning established facts is at the heart of the scientific method. The scientific process involves formulating a hypothesis, conducting experiments, and having it checked by other scientists. However, sometimes there isn't enough information to draw the right conclusions, or different experts can draw different conclusions from the same data. Uncertainty is inherent in the scientific process, but it inspires confidence that outdated ideas are replaced when new information becomes available. Progress is possible because of the scientific method. Students should learn to question and think critically about scientific facts, as it is the fundamental reason for scientific progress.

Georgia O'Keeffe was an American painter and sculptor who transformed natural subjects into abstract geometry. She challenged the realist traditions that dominated art education, using geometric shapes and bold colors to probe the American psyche. Her creative process was based on ritual and close observation, paying meticulous attention to small details and spending hours mixing paints to create exactly the right colors. O'Keeffe also experimented with perspective to celebrate objects that were often overlooked. Her work is remembered as the "Mother of American Modernism" and retains its wild energy. Learning about O'Keeffe's artistic style and creative process can inspire high school students to challenge traditional approaches and explore their own unique perspectives.

Frida Kahlo's life and art provide a captivating glimpse into the world through her unique perspective. Despite facing near-fatal injuries that left her bedridden, Kahlo used painting to express her singular vision. Her mesmerizing self-portraits, which often incorporated symbolism and religious imagery, explored her physical disabilities and tempestuous relationship with fellow painter Diego Rivera. Kahlo's work also celebrated Mexicanidad, a movement that embraced indigenous culture and Mexican nationalism. Her use of surreal imagery was not to explore the unconscious mind, but to represent her own physical body and life experiences. Kahlo's legacy reminds us that there are no simple truths about the life, work, and legacy of the woman behind the icon. By exploring her art, students can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Abstract Expressionism, a movement that began in 1943 and developed after the end of World War II, is characterized by large, primarily abstract paintings, all-over compositions without clear focal points, and sweeping swaths of paint that embody and elicit emotions. The group of artists who are considered Abstract Expressionists includes Barnett Newman, Willem de Kooning, Helen Frankenthaler, and Jackson Pollock. Pollock's signature technique, which involved dripping industrial paint onto a canvas laid on the floor, was supposedly born out of his subconscious. While anyone could technically have done what Pollock did, he and the rest of the New York School were the ones who actually did it. They destroyed conventions of painting that had stood for centuries, forcing the art world to rethink them entirely. Pollock's work embodied fascinating contradictions, resulting in a mythified status of the genius artist as hero. Learning about Abstract Expressionism can inspire students to explore their own creative potential and challenge conventions in their own fields.

Walt Disney's life and achievements offer inspiration and practical lessons for students looking to explore their passions. From an early age, Disney discovered his interest in art and pursued it with passion and dedication. Through independent study and collaboration with others, he developed his skills and created innovative projects, such as Mickey Mouse and soon after, the first feature-length animated film (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs) . Disney's creative vision and entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the iconic Disney Company, which would become one of the world's largest entertainment conglomerates. By exploring their interests, seeking out new knowledge, and pursuing their goals with determination, students can also unleash their potential and achieve success in their chosen field. The benefits of pursuing one's passions include personal fulfillment, intellectual growth, and practical skills development that can lead to future success.

"The Flavor Thesaurus" is not your typical cookbook. It's a beautifully written and imaginative guide to understanding the language of flavor. Author Niki Segnit breaks down the vast universe of ingredients into 99 essential flavors, suggesting classic and lesser-known pairings for each. But this book is much more than a reference guide - Segnit infuses it with her own insights and opinions, making it a witty and engaging read. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced professional, "The Flavor Thesaurus" will improve your cooking and inspire you to experiment with flavors like never before. Recommended for foodies, aspiring chefs, and anyone who wants to take their cooking to the next level, "The Flavor Thesaurus" is an essential guide to understanding the language of flavor. This book is not just a reference guide to classic and lesser-known flavor pairings, but a beautifully written and imaginative exploration of the art of cooking. With insights and opinions from the author, Niki Segnit, this book will inspire you to experiment with flavors and create your own unique dishes. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, "The Flavor Thesaurus" is a must-have reference for anyone who loves to cook.

Unlock the power of 3D storytelling with this comprehensive guide! Hollywood producer Bruce Block and Dreamworks stereoscopic supervisor Philip Captain 3D McNally share their insider knowledge on how to creatively use 3D to enhance your storytelling. From integrating 3D design into your script to directing and designing the depth of your shots, this book provides practical tips and techniques that can be immediately applied to your 3D production. With interviews from leading stereographers and visual aids to illustrate key concepts, this guide is a must-read for anyone looking to take their 3D storytelling to the next level." Recommended for filmmakers, cinematographers, and designers looking to enhance their storytelling with 3D technology. This book provides practical tips and techniques on how to integrate 3D design into your script or story, direct and design the 3D depth of your shots, and create a comfortable viewing experience for the audience. It also covers editing and directorial considerations for 3D, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the technical and aesthetic aspects of 3D storytelling. Whether you're a student of film, a professional in the industry, or simply a lover of 3D technology, this guide is an essential foundation for mastering the art of 3D storytelling.

Did you know that some of the best inventions come from moments of curiosity and experimentation? Take the story of Frank Epperson, who, at just eleven years old, accidentally invented the popsicle. By mixing a sugary soda powder with water and leaving it out overnight, he discovered a frozen treat that he shared with his friends and eventually turned into a business. This story highlights the importance of trying new things and being open to unexpected outcomes. It also shows how one small idea can turn into something big. By exploring academic topics, you too can discover new ideas and create something meaningful. Learning to think creatively and take risks can benefit you both intellectually and practically. Who knows, you might even invent the next popsicle!

The Walt Whitman poem "A Noiseless Patient Spider" has been interpreted by three different animators, each creating their own unique visual representation without any knowledge of what the others were doing. The poem explores the themes of isolation, exploration, and the search for connection. By delving into these academic concepts, students can better understand the human experience and the importance of self-reflection and creativity. Learning about these concepts can also benefit students practically, as they develop critical thinking skills and the ability to express themselves through writing and other forms of artistic expression. So, take a cue from these animators and launch your own filament of exploration and creativity to connect with the world around you.

If you have an eye for detail and love capturing the world around you through a lens, then studying photography at university undergraduate level could be the perfect choice for you. Photography is a fascinating field of study that allows you to experiment with different techniques, styles, and equipment to create stunning images that tell a story. Whether you're interested in portraiture, landscape, or documentary photography, there's something for everyone in this exciting field. In recent years, the field of photography has seen some incredible innovations and research. From new camera technology to digital editing software, there are always new techniques to explore and experiment with. Additionally, there are many inspiring academic figures in the field, such as Annie Leibovitz, Cindy Sherman, and Sebastião Salgado, who have made significant contributions to the art of photography. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take a variety of modules that cover everything from the basics of camera settings to advanced techniques in lighting and composition. Some popular majors include photojournalism, fashion photography, and fine art photography. Additionally, there are many areas of further specialization, such as sports photography, wildlife photography, and even underwater photography. The skills and knowledge gained from studying photography can open up a wide range of potential careers. Many graduates go on to work as professional photographers, either as freelancers or for established companies. Other potential career paths include photojournalism, advertising, and film production. Notable employers in the field include National Geographic, Vogue, and Getty Images. To succeed in the field of photography, it's important to have a keen eye for detail, a passion for storytelling, and a willingness to experiment and take risks. Additionally, having a strong work ethic, good communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure are all essential qualities for success in this exciting field. In conclusion, studying photography at university undergraduate level can be an incredibly rewarding experience. With a wide range of modules to choose from, exciting innovations and research, and a variety of potential career paths, there's never been a better time to pursue your passion for photography.

The story of Joseph B. Friedman and his invention of the bendy straw is a testament to the power of creativity and problem-solving. By modifying a simple straw, he revolutionized the way we drink and brought joy to countless children. As high school students, you too can tap into your creativity and use it to explore academic topics in new and exciting ways. By reading, reflecting, and writing about the ideas that interest you, you can develop the critical thinking and communication skills that are essential for success in college and beyond. So don't be afraid to take risks and try new things - who knows, you might just come up with the next great invention!

Agatha Christie's success as the best-selling novelist of all time was built on her cleverly constructed mystery novels. One of her key techniques was to limit the scope of her stories by setting them in isolated locations, which built tension and limited possible suspects. She also simplified her characters to a handful of simple traits, which made them predictable suspects but also relied on harmful stereotypes. However, she worked to make her characters feel authentic by closely observing the people around her and constantly scribbling down details from overheard conversations. Christie used clues to intentionally mislead her audience, and her most enduring sleuths were outsiders who slipped past security and made suspects let their guard down. By learning these techniques, students can develop their own compelling writing and critical thinking skills.

Glass is a material that we use every day, but have you ever wondered how it works? Glass is made from silicon dioxide, which is heated until it becomes a flowing liquid. As it cools, the molecules lose energy and become an amorphous solid, allowing light to pass through without being scattered. The subatomic level of glass is what makes it transparent, as the electrons in glass are spaced far enough apart that visible light can't provide enough energy for them to jump between them. This unique property has made glass an essential material for many uses, from windows to lenses. Understanding the science behind glass can help you appreciate the importance of this material in modern civilization.

Chocolate is not just an art, it's also a science. Discover how chocolatiers use the complex physics of chocolate to create the perfect texture, taste, and appearance. Learn about the six-phase polymorphic crystal structure of chocolate and how chocolatiers manipulate it through tempering. Explore the similarities between chocolate and carbon and how chocolatiers use their knowledge of physics to regulate the spread of flavor in their creations. Join master chocolatier Richard Tango-Lowy and physicist Joshua Erlich on a journey through the fascinating world of chocolate physics.

Have you ever wondered what lies beyond the pages of a closed book? Imagine being able to see the words on the pages without ever opening the cover. This is the exciting concept behind the technology developed by a group at MIT. Using terahertz waves, they can now read through closed books and uncover the hidden information inside. To do this, they had to overcome a series of challenges including the need for a radiation source that can penetrate the paper, the ability to distinguish between different pages, and the recognition of characters that are partially hidden. Learning about these academic concepts not only expands your knowledge of science and technology but also opens up new possibilities for studying antique documents and other important materials. Take the first step towards exploring the unseen world and discover the thrill of uncovering hidden information.