Ben L Smith High School - Aquila Yearbook (Greensboro, NC)

Page 62 text:

Mr. Jack Huffaker, Chairman of the Science Department, shows Chris Teras and Bob Saunders the principles of the inclined plane in the study of component forces. Chemistry , Physics — Modern science laboratories offer students the opportunity to increase their knowledge in all fields of physical science. By enrolling in courses of modern chemistry and physics, they learn the basic concepts necessary for survival in a complex civilization. Chemical and physical properties of matter are investigated, analyzed, and summar¬ ized by actual experimentation. This experimen¬ tation is a basic element in the scientific method, and much of the student ' s time is spent in the lab. We know that science is molding our futures; we must be well-trained in drawing logical con¬ clusions from observed data. In science, conclu¬ sions must be based on known fact; therefore the life of the chemistry student is involved in experi¬ mentation and laboratory technique. The physics ' student ' s life is filled with calculations and for¬ mulas which help him understand the phenomena in the universe. Sometimes, in the gleaming labs downstairs, we wonder if we could borrow the flourescent light starter to set into action our mental illumination. Gory Wyrick, Jennifer Gschwind, and Freddie McCormick perform an interesting experiment on the calibration of a spring balance. The slide rule is one of the basic tools of the physics stu¬ dent as he ponders over the many problems. 50

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New Equipment, More Space, And Audio-Visual Aids Add Enrichment To Math Program Formulas, equations, and proofs form the basis of mathematics. Even though it is considered a numerical science, mathematics is dependent upon logic and reasoning. Because of its versatility, it can be applied to almost all subject-matter. Our Math. Department kept pace with the progressive movement of the times by the addition of new equipment, new texts, and new classrooms. This year, for the first time, teachers had over¬ head projectors as aids in instruction, and we were given special desks containing graphs and tables on their shining surfaces. In General Math., students discovered the bases of modern numerical procedure. Plane Ge¬ ometry offered enlightenment in the reasoning process and proved to be more than just drawing triangles. Algebra and Advanced Algebra often taxed Junior brainpower to the limit with equa¬ tions and progressions, while lofty Seniors became deflated by Trigonometry and Solid and Analytic Geometry. College preparatory training as well as prep¬ aration for the business world was offered to all, and we discovered the vital role which mathe¬ matics plays in modern everyday living. In other words, when our teachers tell us we cannot be ef¬ fective without it, we ' d better believe it! Overhead projection enables Mr. Leeds to demonstrate new ideas in Geometry to confused students. Audio-Visual aids provide clearer understanding of subject-matter by actual observation. Math. Department: seated, I. to r.: Mrs. Phyllis Mastrocola; Miss Faye Williams; standing: Mr. Otis Gard¬ ner, Chairman; Mr. Edgar Snider; Mr. Robert Leeds; Mr. George Williams. 49

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The determination of reacting volumes holds Bill Copeland spellbound as he studies its effect. Profile of The Age Of Scientific Wonder Mr. Huffaker demonstrates the effect of atmospheric pressure on a mercury barometer as Bobby Johnson looks on with interest. 51