RE: Assessment FOR Learning

This is the first ever reaction paper I've written for my CCT classes.  I also get to read this in front of the class.

In “Assessment Through the Student’s Eyes”, Rick Stiggins stresses the better philosophy of using “Assessment for Learning.”  He states the value of utilizing the assessment process in encouraging students to go for “winning streaks” instead of merely using it for categorizing them into “winners” or “losers.”  The old-fashioned assessment philosophy is satisfied already with just ranking and labeling students according to their achievements, thus, causing the unfortunate and unhealthy typecasting of students into “winners or losers” or “smart, average, and dumb.” But thanks to the evolution of the missions of schools, there has been a reform on the outlook of assessment.  Now, schools are more concerned with assisting all of the students (not only those that have been typecast as “smart” or “winners”) to succeed in learning; there is less emphasis on the sorting of students.  Therefore, assessment for learning aims to completely eliminate “losing” among students, to treat “losses” as mere setbacks that can be bounced out from, make “winners” out of all students, and set them on a track of “winning streaks.”

            The emotional dynamics of the “winners” and “losers” of assessments are extreme polar opposites.  The respective emotions and impressions arising from “winning” and “losing” in assessments are impactful enough to propel “winners” to continue “winning” and “losers” to continue “losing.”  That’s why there is a need for all students to feel the positive and constructive emotional dynamics provided by “winning.”  For that to happen, this is where assessment for learning comes in.

            There is enough evidence to conclude that assessment for learning is a legitimate success in generating optimum results in student learning (Black & William,1998).  The initial step of assessment of learning is for the teacher to set concrete standards for achievement that would be explicitly clear to students.  Hence, the students would know what to aim for.  Then, assessments would serve as constructive and friendly feedbacks which the students can use to evaluate themselves on what is their current statuses are as far as achieving the established standards is concerned; if there is a need for improvement, they would know what aspects they need to improve on.  Thus, there is a need for the teacher to make these feedbacks as clear and specific as possible, so that the students can properly analyze and adjust their performances.  Through this process, the students would undergo improvement, and they would sense this experience of improvement as authentic and somewhat tangible.  They would feel that success is realistically achievable if they continue to work for it.  Hence, they would feel motivated.  They will have a “winning” attitude.

            I’ve found myself continually nodding my head, agreeing to every point Mr. Stiggins raised, while reading his writing.  Mr. Stiggins has done a brilliant job in presenting a compelling thesis.  Now I am not sure if the ideas he presented in the article are originally his own, but regardless of that matter, he was able to deliver these ideas in a logical and organized manner that he succeeded in making the reading experience quite insightful and enlightening.

In a way, reading Mr. Stiggins’ article summarized for me the most important ideas that I have learned during the first meetings of our “Assessment of Learning” course; it served as an exclamation point for the dramatic shift of my presuppositions about learning assessment.  Throughout my whole academic life, I’ve always been given the idea that tests and grades are the end products.  That’s why it blew my mind when this whole “Assessment for Learning” concept was introduced to me.  I found it making a lot of sense.  Now, I’m totally sold on it.  I will advocate it and enforce it when I finally become a (licensed) teacher.

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Top 20 Characters I Want to Become Avengers

This was inevitable.  I’ve been doing top 10 lists in this site for about three years now.  And I knew there would come a time I would encounter a topic that would require more than ten spots to be a more fun and effective list.  I think it’s time to set that precedence.  I’m in the mood to do the first Top 20 of this blog.     

The Avengers celebrates its 50^thanniversary this year.  And since the Avengers is a significant nerd property that I’m greatly fond of, I want to kind of commemorate it by making this list of characters I would love to see become members of an Avengers roster in the near future.

       

The assembling of an Avengers’ team (with the roster usually made official by a press conference), especially the induction of first-time members, has always been thrilling.  Take for example the current Avengers main team (though it hasn’t made any press conference) which is made up of several first-timers (and with heroes like Hulk, Thor, Hyperion, and Captain Universe in it, it’s probably the most powerful Avengers team yet!), thus, it has the potential for significant surprises in character developments and, by extension, storylines.  For all we know, Cannonball can bloom into becoming the next Captain America (as leader). 

Moreover, half of the current number of active Avengers – those of the main Avengers team, the Avengers Unity Squad (“Uncanny Avengers” – the only current Avenger team that had a press conference), and the new “New Avengers” team (it seems those of the present “Secret Avengers” still doesn’t count?  And, of course, the “Dark Avengers” has never been really considered real Avengers.  Moreover, what of this upcoming “Avengers A.I” team? I doubt that the “Avengers” in that team name really gives the team members official Avengers membership, just as it is with “Young Avengers” and “Dark Avengers”.  The upcoming incarnation of the “Mighty Avengers” are likely to have a legitimate and official Avengers status though) – are mutants!  Considering this refreshing trend, about half of the spots on this list go to mutants.  I initially considered making a respective ten for non-mutants and mutants before deciding to make a full 20 instead.    

My picks here are those characters that have never been part of an Avengers team before, thus, if they obtain membership, it’s going to be their first time as Avengers.   

20.) ANOTHER MYTHOLOGICAL DEITY

First was Thor.  Then, Hercules.  And, in mid-2000’s, it was Ares.  Marvel Comics has made superheroes out of popular gods of mythology and turned them into Avengers (and aside from mythological gods, there was also Sersi, an Avenger based on the mythological character “Circi”).  I think it’s time for Marvel to introduce another superhero based on a mythological deity.  If they go with an Olympian, my choice is Artemis or Zeus.  However, the most interesting idea is for a god from Egyptian mythology this time to become an Avenger.  The Egyptian mythological gods – the Heliopolitans – have already been established in the Marvel Universe (see illustration above).  Marvel just has to pick one that has the potential to develop into awesomeness.  My personal pick?  Anubis or Sekhmet.

19.) HUMAN TORCH

The original Human Torch, the android Jim Hammond, has already been an Avenger.  But not the Fantastic Four’s Human Torch, Johnny Storm.   The rest of the Fantastic Four has become Avengers at some point, while Johnny has never been one (sure, he was part of the Anti-Registrations’ so-called “Secret Avengers” during the Civil War, but that doesn’t count as an official Avengers membership).  I think it’s only fair that he also gets an Avengers gig like his Fantastic Four teammates. 

18.) SASQUATCH

Aside from Wolverine, there has been no sometime Alpha Flight superhero that has become an Avenger.  Someone from Alpha Flight becoming an Avenger seems unlikely considering that Alpha Flight is supposed to be Canada’s version of the Avengers.  Still, if it’s going to happen, who I want it to be is Sasquatch; because he looks like a kickass mash-up of Chewbacca and the Hulk.

17.) A YOUNG AVENGER OR AN AVENGERS ACADEMY ALUMNUS

Isn’t that what they were meant for?  To graduate from the “minor leagues” and become official Avengers?  

If I remember it right, Stature is the only Young Avenger that has been able to become an Avenger.  The rest just got honorary memberships, which is not the same thing as becoming an official Avenger.  But Stature is already dead; while Hawkeye (Kate Bishop), Speed, Wiccan, and Hulkling are the Young Avengers that deserve to be official Avengers already (those four are the only ones I believe to be deserving of promotion.  The other Young Avengers – original and new?  Not yet.).  

   

How about those that have graduated from Avengers Academy (who are currently fighting to the death a la Battle Royal/Hunger Games with other young heroes)?  The purpose of the Academy is to make these youths with aptitudes to become supervillains become heroes instead, and to eventually become Avengers someday.  So at least one of them should become an Avenger soon after these “Hunger Games” event among teenage heroes.   

    

Even if they are still teenagers (they have been teenager for years now, Marvel.  When will you make them grow up?), that should not stop them from being part of an Avengers roster.  In fact, having teenage superheroes interact with adult superheroes in one Avengers team is guaranteed for some interesting developments and generation gap clashes.

16.) SILVER SURFER

Too cosmic and powerful to fit with an Avengers team?  Maybe. But Quasar had been an Avenger, and Captain Universe, who could be the most cosmic of everything cosmic, is currently a member.  Would love for the Surfer to hang out for a while with the team.  And think about this, Surfer was a member of the Defenders before.  Does that sound okay with you?  The Silver Surfer had been a Defender but hasn’t been an Avenger yet?

15.) RED SHE-HULK

To be honest, Red She-Hulk hasn’t won me over yet (Marvel is getting crowded with Hulks.  At my last count, there are at least six Hulks out there).  But I’m intrigued that she has her own ongoing solo series right now.  Then, there must be something special about her.  I’m too lazy to check out her comicbook, and would rather evaluate her as an Avenger.  Three Hulks – Hulk, She-Hulk, and Red Hulk – have been Avengers already.  And a Hulk in the Avengers had always been fun.  So having her in the Avengers is the best situation to see what makes her stand out from the other Hulks.  Moreover, it would surely boost Red She-Hulk’s superhero value if she becomes an Avenger.  

14.) GHOST RIDER

Ghost Rider, though more fit at going solo than being on a team, has been part of teams as well, like the Champions.  However, the thought of him part of an Avengers roster is very intriguing.  At first thought, it seems that Ghost Rider would be so out of place with the Avengers – which what actually makes the thought of him becoming an Avenger intriguing.  Because he will be constantly creeping out his teammates.

11.) to 13.) CYCLOPS, MAGNETO, & EMMA FROST

In the aftermath of “AvX”, these three X-Men are no longer in good terms with the rest of the superhero community.  As far as other supeheroes are concerned – including the other X-Men (those that support Wolverine after the schism in the X-Men) – Cyclops, Magneto, and Emma Frost are not “superheroes” anymore but “criminals.” 

The thought here is simple; this is how I fantasize how their path to redemption would turn out – they will be compelled to become part of the Avengers Unity Squad, i.e. the Uncanny Avengers.

Would be a lot of fun to see Scott (Cyclops), who is used to giving out orders as a leader, now has to follow the orders of his brother, Alex (Havok).  But I picture that Scott would eventually take the leadership role in the long run. 

Also, Magneto and Emma Frost as Avengers!  How simultaneously awesome and ridiculous is that thought?!

10.) MR. IMMORTAL

Mr. Immortal is the leader of the so-called “Great Lakes Avengers”, a superhero team made up of oddball superheroes.  But how would Mr. Immortal fare as an actual Avenger?  In my opinion, he would add a lot of fun to the dynamics of the team and would become a fan favorite.  Really.  I am serious. He can be that. 

I am not saying he will become an important member.  What I mean is he will make reading an Avengers book more fun and entertaining.   What do I mean by that?  Well, can you remember the humorous element of whenever an Avengers roster that has Wolverine in it is ambushed?  The other Avengers would be able to block or dodge the attacks, but Wolverine would be caught by the ambush and get hit “lethally.”  Of course, nothing is really lethal with Logan since he has a trademark healing factor.  But those occurrences gave some minor laughs.       

Now picture that same thing happening with Mr. Immortal in the roster instead of Wolverine.  Whenever the Avengers get ambushed, they would be able to dodge or block the attacks with the exception of Mr. Immortal, who will get “killed.”   But since Mr. Immortal’s power is immortality, he would only come back to life fully regenerated whenever he gets killed in this ambush.  And then he gets killed again as soon as he rises up and joins the fray.  So with this, the whole thing would absolutely be hilarious instead of just funny (as with Wolverine).

9.) PHIL COULSON

Yes, Coulson is a member of the current Secret Avengers incarnation, but as I’ve mentioned in the intro, this current Secret Avengers seems to carry no official Avengers status at all (although there are Avengers members in it, they operate as a S.H.I.E.L.D. black ops arm rather than as the Avengers’ black ops team).  It would be really awesome for this fan-beloved badass character to be given an actual Avengers membership – to be a normal, non-superhero black-suited spook standing in the same page with costumed superheroes.

8.) MAN-THING

Here’s another character that seemingly won’t fit with the Avengers at all.  However, if you have read Man-Thing’s stint with the Thunderbolts/Dark Avengers in the comics, you might observe what I had observed about the character – he looks good in a team after all.  Besides, the Avengers would find Man-Thing’s teleporting ability (which can even allow him to open doors to other dimensions and realities) extremely beneficial to the team.

7.) MORPH

The original Morph character didn’t debut on comics.  He has only been exclusively featured in the X-Men animated TV series back in the 90’s.  Morph has yet to appear in Marvel’s main continuity, the Earth-616 Universe (though the concept for the character was originally used on a character named “Changeling”). 

However, the comicbooks does have a Morph, but the character originated from the Earth-1081 reality.  He became part of the Exiles, a superhero team composed of different heroes from different realites – usually X-Men or have some connections with the X-Men – that travels across the Marvel Multiverse to fix the errors in each continuity’s reality.  Morph, because of being a badass despite of usually clowning around, easily became the fan favorite of the team.  The original Morph, from the TV series, has the ability to perfectly mimic the appearance of other people, a la Mystique; while the comics’ Morph’s ability is to shapeshift his into various forms, only limited by his imagination, and his mimicries are not of perfect copy but of the same parodied kind of quality that Genie, of Walt Disney’s Aladdin, does.  In his own reality, Morph is both a member of the X-Men and the Avengers.        

Morph is a really cool and fun character; would really love him to become an expat in Marvel’s main continuity and earn an Avengers membership in it, just as he did in his home reality.

6.) HOWARD THE DUCK

Seriously.  This rude, cynical, ill-tempered, and gabby duck should be an Avenger.  He would be more than a mascot-member since he is actually capable in a fight.  I believe that he can do to the Avengers what Rocket Raccoon has done to the Guardians of the Galaxy.

5.) SCARLET SPIDER

Right now, he is a more likable character than the current Spider-Man (ugh).  These days, I enjoy reading a Scarlet Spider comicbook more than a Spider-Man book (because my animosity for the whole Superior Spider-Man concept – Doc Ock taking over Peter Parker’s body – prevents me from objectively judging with certainty the quality of a Superior Spider-Man issue).  The character development and premise (a darker, grittier Spider-Man; “All of the power, none of the responsibility” slogan) of the Scarlet Spider has been delightful so far.  He should be given an Avengers membership as a reward for being terrific.   

4.) MULTIPLE MAN

Jamie Madrox’s ability to create duplicates (or “dupes”) of himself has always been one of my most favorite superpowers.  Each dupe that Jamie creates has his own independent will and thought, can have his own experiences, and can even limitedly create his own dupes; but is nonetheless emphatically linked to the main Jamie.  Whenever Jamie absorbs back a dupe, he will also absorb the dupe’s memories, knowledge, and skills. Pretty cool, eh?  (Naruto has this power, too.  But I first encountered this ability is with Multiple Man). 

I believe that if the Multiple Man becomes an Avenger, the opportunity is more available for a storyline that would put the character and the utilization of his superpower into a whole new level of awesomeness.

3.) LOKI

Heel-face turns have always been dramatic.  And the Avengers organization has always been ready to welcome with open arms any reformed villains among their ranks; by making them Avengers, they help them in their path to redemption.  Now, what can be more dramatic than Loki becoming an Avenger?

Loki is arguably the Avengers’ most important antagonist, for it was because of clashing with him that the Avengers first banded together.  The Avenger’s most important antagonist becoming an Avenger is going to be a major game-changer, and I completely dig the idea.  

I’m not expecting him to have a total change of heart.  It is even more interesting if he remains narcissistic, power-loving and mischievous, but is totally sincere as an Avenger – his reasons and goals could be selfish, but not necessarily totally evil and harmful.  If ever he becomes an Avenger, his tenure should be lengthy.  Besides, since the current incarnation of Loki – Kid Loki – is already aligned with good anyway (he is a current member of the Young Avengers, but still remains mischievous), the fastest path for Loki to become an Avenger is for him to mature rapidly into adulthood (via magic) and then eventually earning an Avengers membership. 

2.) DEADPOOL

I think it has been long overdue.  It’s got to happen.  With his popularity, “The Merc with a Mouth” should become an Avenger.  ASAP.  

He successfully made breaking the fourth-wall a trademark of his (talking to the readers and having awareness that he is a comicbook character), which is somewhat unique for a comicbook character.  He is both a badass and hilarious anti-hero.  He is both fun-loving and fight-loving.  And he is completely batshit insane but has a heart of gold.  Thus, he has developed into one of Marvel’s most charismatic and deepest character.  And, arguably, he is probably even the most entertaining Marvel character at present.  

If Deadpool becomes an Avenger, the chemistry and the hilarity that would ensue from how Deadpool would interact with his teammates would certainly be epic.  And since there is at present a lack of a smartass clown in the Avengers anyway (because Peter Parker – the Amazing Spider-Man – is no longer in the team), Deadpool should fill that vacancy.   

1.) GAMBIT

He is one of the coolest comicbook characters ever created (that he became a favorite of mine), and I mourn the fact that he is so underrated.  In my opinion, Gambit has the proper qualities that would make him into such kind of premium character as Wolverine.   And I believe that all it takes to propel him into such level is for him to have a successful and memorable Avengers gig.  

Let’s give him that chance, Marvel! 

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Top 10 Fictional Characters That Have Lightning/Electric Powers

I find that among characters in fiction that possess “elemental” powers, those that can wield lightning or electricity are, more often than not, depicted as the most powerful among those other “elemental” power users.  That’s why you will find the adjective “powerful” mentioned here many times.  In this top 10, I list who I think is the most interesting electricity/lightning wielders of fiction.  

10.) BLANKA

Blanka is one of the most popular characters of Street Fighter.  He obtained the two things about him that make him a savage badass – his ferocious beast appearance and his electric powers – from being exposed to electric eels after a plane crash (yeah, kind of silly).  He also knows capoeira (a Brazilian martial art) and developed his own style of this martial art by combining it with his feral nature and electric abilities.

9.) SUPERMAN BLUE

 

In the 90’s, there was a time when Superman’s powers become screwed up due to being temporarily deprived of solar energy.  He became a form of pure electrical energy and his powers became electric-based.  He gained the ability to turn “on” and “off” himself into Superman electric energy-form and powerless Clark Kent (thus, he was a vulnerable human when as Clark Kent) respectively.   He was required to wear a blue-and-white containment suit developed by Dr. Emil Hamilton while in Superman electric energy-form so that his energy components won’t disperse. 

Such major change of nature and identity might have traumatized anyone, but not Superman.  He remained steadfast, made adjustments, and continued being a hero with his new electric powers.  He became resourceful and creative in using his new electric-based energy powers to compensate for the disappearance of his super strength, heat vision, and other traditional Superman powers.  But at this energy form, however, Superman discovered that he was able to travel faster than ever. 

Of course, after some time, Superman’s iconic powers and tangible form returned.  They had to.

8.) ELECTRO

Electro is the only villain in this list.  He has an equally ridiculous origin story as Blanka – he gained his powers after getting struck by lightning while working on a power line.  Nonetheless, Electro’s ability to store, absorb, manipulate, and generate nigh limitless amount of electricity makes him immensely powerful.  However, despite of having tremendous power, Electro has always been outsmarted and defeated by Spider-Man and by other heroes he clashes with – who are mostly much less powerful than him – much to Electro’s constant embarrassment.  But you know what?  That’s what actually makes him entertaining, and thus, is on this list.

7.) BLACK LIGHTING

I love how IGN describes Black Lightning as “a true hero and a born badass that has more than earned his spot on the Justice League.”  That, for me, nailed it.  His best moment is probably when he restarted the heart of a near-dead Superman.   This gives us an idea on the extent of Black Lightning’s electric might since it’s powerful enough to perform defibrillation on the Man of Steel.  Moreover, he’s also Batman-trained in close-combat, adding another dimension to his badassery.

6.) LAXUS DREYAR

 

Laxus, being an S-class mage, is one of Fairy Tail’s most powerful members.  He’s so confident in his great lightning-based magic that he even got arrogant enough to decide on taking over Fairy Tail from his grandfather’s mastership.  He looks at himself as the most powerful mage in Fairy Tail and thought of his co-guild members as weak, and that there was a need for him to become Fairy Tail master to judge everyone.  With just three loyal Fairy Tail lackeys, he would take on the entire guild, conducting a “purge” so that only those he thought is powerful enough should remain as members.  During this time, it was as if Laxus was completely selfish, overbearing, and callous.  Laxus would eventually be defeated and his attempt to take over Fairy Tail failed.  His grandfather pardoned his lackeys, but Laxus however was excommunicated from Fairy Tail. 

In his excommunication, Laxus was humbled and realized his wrongness.  It was revealed that, deep inside, Laxus actually has the true heart of a Fairy Tail mage – the sincere value for comradeship.  After some time, Laxus would return to Fairy Tail’s aid, and with a renewed sense of pride and love for his guild and his guildmates, he regained his membership. 

In the quest to recover the honor and reputation of Fairy Tail (after it became the weakest guild because all major members of the guild – including Laxus – were in suspended animation for 7 years and thought to be dead) through the Grand Magic Games, Laxus was instrumental in Fairy Tail’s return to glory.  His highlights were singlehandedly defeating his father’s dark guild, Raven Tail; and beating Jura, one of the world’s top ten most powerful magi.

5.) RAIDEN

Raiden is one of Mortal Kombat’s most popular characters.  Being a thunder god, Raiden is immortal.  He is very fond of Earthrealm (and humans) that he chose to be its protector.  He would also be the one to gather human champions worthy to defend Earthrealm whenever it is in danger (i.e. during Mortal Kombat tournaments).  When participating in a Mortal Kombat tournament, Raiden would take human form, donning a kickass costume highlighted by an iconic sakkat hat.  Aside from his lightning powers, Raiden can also fly and teleport.  My favorite depiction of Raiden in live action is by Christopher Lambert in the first MK movie.

4.) KILLUA ZOLDYCK

 

Killua comes from a family of deadly assassins, thus, at a young age, Kilua was trained to be a very capable and skillful killer.  Though he failed in his first attempt to be a Hunter (because he killed his opponent, which was against the rule of the test), he was able to become the only to pass the Hunter Examduring his second attempt, for he singlehandedly eliminated all of his co-applicants on the opening test, which had a “battle royal” nature.   Even when Killua was not yet familiar with Nen, he was already quite dangerous because of his assassin background; he can rip through his opponent’s flesh because of his very sharp fingernails, and he possesses superhuman speed, agility, strength, endurance, and intellect.  As a Transmuter-type of Nen user, Killua developed a Hatsuthat transforms his aura into electricity.  One of the manifestations of his electric powers is an ability called “Godspeed”, which gives Killua the ability to travel and react at the speed of lightning.  Killua can recharge his Nen by drawing electricity from electric sources like a power outlet.

3.) HATAKE KAKASHI

 

My choice for greatest fictional ninja is featured in another top 10 list once again (his 3^rd time already). 

Having the reputation of being a copycat ninja, Kakashi is an expert in using a wide variety of techniques from different elemental origins.  However, Kakashi’s natural aptitude is of the element of lightning.  The most basic manifestation of Kakashi’s lightning power is the Chidori (which is already powerfully deadly on its own) and the more enhanced version is the Raikiri or the “Lightning Cutter” (which has better chakra control and has more forms).  Kakashi has developed and drawn other lightning techniques from his Raikiri.  While Kakashi is capable of using long-range lightning attacks, his most popular form of attacking is by thrusting the highly concentrated amount of lightning chakra into a target by close range. 

2.) GINJI AMANO

 

Ginji is half of the Getbackers duo.  He is a powerful electricity wielder, showing versatility in the use of his electric powers.  Not only is he capable of calling down powerful lightning bolts to strike down targets, but his power extends to electromagnetism, too.  Moreover, his extensive ability to manipulate electromagnetic waves gives him the power of some sort of pseudo-mind control.  And by charging the earth with negative ions, and then magnetizing himself, he is able to repel himself off the earth, thus, replicating flight.  Heck, he’s so powerful that he can even do some manipulation of reality!  But it doesn’t end there.  There’s more.  He also has an alter ego named Raitei – the Lightning Emperor.  While Ginji is bubbly and friendly, Raitei is the exact polar (no pun intended) opposite of Ginji for he is dark and vicious.  Raitei is implied as Ginji’s former and actual persona.  Ginji reverts to back to being Raitei whenever he is against extremely difficult situations or exposed to elements of his dark past.  Raitei’s powers are god-like unlimited, monstrously amplifying Ginji’s electric powers that he can already control or annihilate as far as the subatomic levels, release immense amount of microwave radiation, discharge plasma blasts, create clones of himself from microwave radiation, manipulate photons, and manipulate and transcend space-time!         

1.) THOR

 

One of Marvel Comics’ most important achievements was successfully developing a god of Norse mythology into one of the most popular superheroes ever.  The number one spot rightfully belongs to the God of Thunder himself (even if Raitei is more powerful than him).  Wielding the mighty Mjolnir, Thor is the undisputed master of lightning and storm, and can summon them whenever and in any form he wants.       

It can be argued that Thor is the Superman of Marvel Comics, because, like Superman, he is too powerful but has to consistently hold himself back from unleashing his full power to avoid causing too much destruction or collateral damage.  Several times it was implied that the only time Thor can comfortably manifest his full power is when his Avengers teammates are out of the picture, because Thor fears of destroying his allies along with his enemies when he does unleash his full power.        

* * *

BONUS: ZEUS

As what was mentioned in the intro and implied by the list, fictional characters that possess lightning-based powers are, more often than not, considered as one of the most powerful, if not the most, in their respective settings or story universes.  And this perception of associating this kind of great power to lightning might be linked to Zeus’ status as the “god of gods” of Greek mythology, for Zeus is a lightning wielder.    

The character of Zeus has been depicted or adapted on literature, movies, and cartoons, but none of those characterizations obtained the kind of pop culture iconization and branding that Marvel has done with Thor.  Still, although he is not as successful in the commercial utilization as Thor, the mythological character Zeus equals Thor in popularity on being associated with lightning – and maybe even more so.  Furthermore, the imagery of Zeus throwing lightning bolts as if they are javelins is too excitingly badass. 

You can consider this “bonus” entry as an honorable mention or a supplement – or a tie – with the No. 1 entry (Thor).  It’s up to you.  Either way, it works for me.  Zeus just begs to be acknowledged regarding this topic.

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Top 10 Powered Armored Superheroes

A powered armor – popularized by sci-fi and comicbooks – is a powerful and high-tech upgrade of the traditional medieval armor; it does not only serve as a very tough defensive exoskeleton but is also capable of other functions like providing artificial super-strength to the wearer; flight (by means of rocket techs); and being equipped with weapons like laser guns and missile launchers, and “Swiss knife-esque” variety of gadgetries.  Among those superheroes that don’t possess any superhuman or supernatural power or trait , some makes use of powered armors so they may be able to hold their own in an environment filled with superpowered individuals.  This is a list about that particular kind of superhero; it’s probably quite obvious where this list is going to, but I hope you would still find the rest of the ride interesting.      

10.) THE BOX

Roger Bochs is the brilliant engineer who built the Box armor and wields its identity (Bochs=Box, a pun?).  What is unique with this powered armored hero is that he doesn’t wear the armor at all, but has to phase into it and merge with it.  Bochs would have a psychic bond with the armor whenever he merges with it, which is a disadvantage since any damage the Box armor receives would register to Bochs as pain to his own body.  The Box is a member of the Canadian superhero group, Alpha Flight.  

9.) CRIMSON DYNAMO

 

The Crimson Dynamo – just like the more popular Titanium Man – is a cruder, Soviet version of Iron Man.  Just like with the “Titanium Man” name, several had been “Crimson Dynamo”; just like with “Titanium Man”, the code name is dependent on the armor and whoever wears the armor possesses the right to carry the code name.   But unlike Titanium Man, one of those that donned the Crimson Dynamo persona and armor became part of the good guys – Dmitri Bukharin.  Dmitri is arguably the most popular Crimson Dynamo, considering that though he is not the first and last to carry the identity and armor, he was however the longest to do so.  He has been part of the Soviet superhero team Soviet Super Soldiers, which would become Supreme Soviets and would later become the People’s Protectorate (after the Soviet Union was dissolved).  There was also a time that he used the superhero name (with a non-Crimson Dynamo armor) “Airstrike.”

8.) ROCKET RED

 

DC’s Rocket Red greatly reminds me of Crimson Dynamo.  Like Crimson Dynamo, Rocket Red is also from the Soviet Union and several have carried the identity, depending on who’s wearing the armor.  However, unlike Crimson Dynamo, Rocket Red has been associated with the good guys all along, right from the start.   As far as I’m aware, all Rocket Reds have been part of the Justice League during each one’s respective time as Rocket Red.   

7.) MACH V

Abner Jenkins was one of the first members of Thunderbolts, a superhero team made up of former supervillains.  While he was still a villain, he was one of Spider-Man’s foes, the Beetle.  Once he turned away from his criminal life, become a Thunderbolt, and started operating as a hero, he first used the code name Mach-1 and as he continued upgrading his armor, he would revise his code name with each upgrade; he became Mach-2, Mach-3, and Mach IV until he finally ended up with the current “Mach V” name.  What struck me most about him is being badassly described at one time with having “the flight speed and firepower of a human fighter plane.”  A human fighter plane!  (Note: the image above is his Mach-1 armor)

6.) TRIPHAMMER

Before Tony Stark had his “Bleeding Edge Armor” – in which nanobots are hidden in Tony’s bloodstream and would assemble immediately into an Iron Man powered armor at moment’s notice, mentally commanded by Tony – I encountered this awesome concept first with Triphammer, a recurring character in Powers.

5.) GIZMODUCK

I really like this hero’s very amusing origin story, so I just have to make him number six.  Fenton Crackshell was the accountant of Scrooge McDuck and has the habit of saying the expression “blathering blatherskite.”  One day, on a visit to the workshop of the genius inventor Gyro Gearlose, Fenton would find a robot suit called GizmoDuck lying around.  This armor is designed by Gyro to activate when the word “blatherskite” is spoken –a word that Gyro assumed is not part of an average person’s vocabulary.  But fate meant for Fenton and the GizmoDuck armor to bond, and in that fateful occasion, the accountant uttered his favorite expression, and the rest is history.  From then on, he became the superhero Gizmoduck.  Later, he would even team up with Darkwing Duck and assemble a superhero team with him.

4.) STEEL

John Henry Irons was a brilliant and successful weapons engineer, but became dismayed of the destruction his weapons causes that he decided to fake his death to live a simpler life.  He decided to work as a humble construction worker in Metropolis, and one day, he fell of the skyscraper that he was working on after saving a co-worker from falling.    Midway his fall, he was caught by Superman.  John was so full of gratitude that he wanted to repay Superman, and the iconic hero advised him that he can do so if he will “live a life worth living.”  He took this advice to heart; after the “death” of Superman, he built a powered armor, and carried the insignia of Superman and adopted Superman’s nickname of “Man of Steel”, in an attempt to fill the “late” Superman’s role as Metropolis’ heroic champion and to honor him.  Later on, “Man of Steel” was shortened to just “Steel.”  Aside from a powered armor, Steel also wields a sledgehammer – a reference to his namesake, the folk legend John Henry.

3.) WAR MACHINE

Lt. James Rhodes was a close friend of Tony Stark, the Iron Man; when Tony was struggling with alcoholism, he asked Rhodes to take his place as Iron Man.  Later on, after Tony returns as Iron Man, he gave a Rhodes a new Iron Man-type powered armor.  James would opt with “War Machine” (which is a proper name once you see the design of the armor) as his superhero name.  What I liked most about War Machine is being a “battle-tank” version of Iron Man, since it’s as if, basing on appearance, that he has more offensive raw firepower than Iron Man.  

I dig more the design of the Ultimate version of War Machine than the original, since it’s closer to the “battle-tank” perception that the name “War Machine” inspires:

2.) SPIDER-MAN

What?  Spider-Man?!

Yes, Spider-Man.  Though, he was never been a traditional powered armored-type of superhero, there have been several times he wore a powered armor.  And those instances were all noteworthy as a powered armored superhero.   (Besides, this is my list anyway. I can’t put anyone I like and won’t apologize for it. Hehe.)

The first time Spidey donned an armor was in Web of Spider-Man #100, when Peter had to create an armored Spider suit so that he can be greatly defended when he clashed with the heavily-armed Enforcers.  It wasn’t fancy at all; it doesn’t have different gadgetries since it was merely intended for the primary purpose of defense.     

The second Spider-Man armor was a high-tech one since this was a gift from Tony Stark; this was dubbed as the “Iron Spider.”  At that time, Spider-Man had just been “born again” from death – where he gained additional powers (which were taken away after the “One More Day” retcon).  So with these additional new powers and his Iron Spider armor, this was the time Spidey was at his most powerful (with the exception of the time Spidey became Captain Universe).  The Iron Spider armor was equipped with multiple cool functions, including “Waldoes” – mechanical spider limbs on the back that can be extended at command and had cameras and pseudo-fingers on their tips.  Spidey got rid of this armor and returned to his old costume after he changed sides during the superhuman “Civil War.”

The third and most stylish Spider-Man armor was his “Anti-Sinister Six” armor.  

Just as the name suggests, this was an armor built by Peter Parker that had functions that are useful for neutralizing the abilities of the Sinister Six.  Some of these functions are: a.) a customized echolocator which can detect Chameleon’s heartbeat, allowing Spidey to recognize him no matter how perfect his disguise is; b.) a holographic visor that can see through Mysterio’s illusions; c.) electro-proof function against Electro’s electric attacks; d.) an OctoHelmet, which can control Dr. Octopus’ octo-bots; and e.) brain-wave detector and radioactive dye, to pick out the Sandman’s “queen bee” particle (the grain sand that tells the other grain of sands in his composition what to do).

1.) IRON MAN

As I’ve said in the intro, it’s quite obvious where this list would end up with.  I’m not sure if he was the first, but he’s certainly the epitome of the powered armored superhero; almost all armored superheroes are analogous to or borrowed character elements from Iron Man.  With his genius intellect and tech savvy, Tony Stark’s Iron Man armor design is continually evolving through the years, making him remain relevant and awesome.  Moreover, the Iron Man character right now is at his most popular to date, thanks to Robert Downey, Jr. and the successful trilogy of Iron Man movies (plus the Avengers film).

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Establishing a New Status Quo (Hopefully)

Recently, I felt that if life is a board game, then I’ve always been eventually ending up on a tile that dictates “Go back to start.”  

And I’m tired of it. 

So I took the first step of changing the status quo – to make a new “start” point.  I need to get upgrades or/and overhauls on several facets of myself.  (Maybe it’s even time for the Version 2.0?)

From this month onward, there is a need for changes on my routines and, hopefully, my attitude.  This would take time and hard work.  And I pray that God would grant me the necessary wisdom, tenacity, perseverance, and patience for this process.

I’ll take one step at a time.  One day at a time.  

If all goes well, I will start to kick butt again.  

Hopefully...

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