Mrs. Parks, a sixth-grade science teacher, posed an intriguing question to her class: “Which human body part increases to ten times its size when stimulated?” The students were taken aback, and no one dared to answer.
That was until little Mary stood up, her face flushed with indignation. “You shouldn’t be asking us a question like that!” she exclaimed. “I’m going to tell my parents, and they’ll tell the principal, and you’ll get fired!” Mary’s outburst was met with silence, and Mrs. Parks chose to ignore her dramatic response.
Undeterred, Mrs. Parks repeated the question, hoping someone would provide the correct answer. Little Mary was shocked, her mouth agape as she whispered to her classmates, “Boy, is she going to get in big trouble!” The teacher, however, remained composed and asked the question again.
Finally, Billy stood up, looking around nervously, and provided the correct answer: “The pupil of the eye increases ten times its size when stimulated.” Mrs. Parks commended Billy for his correct response.
Then, she turned her attention to Mary, saying, “As for you, young lady, I have three things to say: One, you have a dirty mind. Two, you didn’t read your homework. And three, one day you are going to be very, very disappointed.” Mary’s misconception had led to an embarrassing moment, but Mrs. Parks’ clever response had saved the day.
