Franklin College - Almanack Yearbook (Franklin, IN)

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Mathematical Department LASSES come and classes go but the Mathemat- ical department remains a constant quantity. lt is diiiicult to conceive that it shall ever be other- wise, for mathematical studies looked at from a prac- tical point of View underlie so many intelligent pur- suits and employments as to render an acquaintance with them of great importance, while looked at from a theoretical point of View they afford a fine mental discipline, as they demand from the student earnest voluntary exertion. Few students attain much success in mathematics unless willing to sub- mit themselves to steady and continued discipline. No other line of studies demands greater self-denial, patience and perseveranceg and this at a period in life when restraint and application are peculiarly valuable. It.will appear then that the aim of the department is three-fold : mental discipline, develop- ment of character, and knowledge. The methods employed vary with the different sub- jects treated, and to some extent with indiyidual students. Wliatevei' the method used, clearness, ac- curacy and careful expression of thought are de- manded. The mathematical rooms are large with eastern and southern windows. A small but yaluable library renders much assistance in the various lines of study. The blackboard space is too limited for the Freshman class but allows about twenty to write at the same time. Dryuess and drudgery are terms often connected with this department, but all is not dryness though it must be admitted dust is fiying much of the time. He will be a benefactor to teachers who inyents a dustless crayon. The drudgery, too, is enliyened now and then by the introduction of matter not con- templated by the makers of the text-book. Exami- nation papers sometimes reyeal original defmitions, as for instance, 'tGeometry is the means by which we imaginef' After all, where is the imagination more needed than in the study of geometry? The student who spoke of the conjugal diameters of an ellipse was perhaps taking lessons in campustry, while he who is classifying logaritlnns changed hyperbolic system to ' 'diabolic system unconsciously expressed his aversion to adyauced algebra. The teacher sus- pects, however, that the youth who gaye the Cussoid of Dioclesl' for the Cissoid of Dioclesn was one who sought out many inventions. Close study and much study usually bring to the student of mathematics rewards in the quickeued perceptions, in the conscious ability to meet difficult problems, and in the mastery of mental powers. These are possessions which may be made available in many directions. ' Professor Rebecca J. Thompson has had charge of this department for oyer twenty-five years. She is one of the best in the country. The students loye her as a teacher and a true Christian lady.

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DR. W. T. STOTT

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PROF. R. J. THOMPSON