Griffith High School - Reflector Yearbook (Griffith, IN)

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Wearing the new look in science, Tim Redar performed an experiment in chemistry. Snakes were among the many forms of life observed and studied by biology students. Science students pondered life, the elements Seniors Lenny Czapla and Don Schuster prepared to observe the impact of two cars in physics class as Kerry Pickett and Tom Britton looked on. Holding noses, dipping fingers into slimy green water and pulling out shapeless jellyfish for dissection became part of lab tradition for science students. Microscopic equipment, a camera and an oil immersion microscope further enlarged the amount of science equipment. A new state law required students to wear goggles during lab. The tinkle of test tubes ... the invisible flame of a bunsen burner . . . the odor of burning sulfer— a familiar setting for chemical experiments, the basis for exploring the elements. IPS or Introduction to Physical Science, as a new course, interested 49 students in the principles of light, heat, energy and magnetism.

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Shop classes contributed useful items to school Drafting was the basis for all other industrial arts courses and allowed students such as Tim McMinds to gain experience in drawing, proportioning and measurement. A 383 or dual quads can always attract a boy’s attention. Remodeling an old jalopy or installing a souped-up engine is one part of a boy ' s life which can be enjoyed in school also. Industrial arts classes allow boys to follow their own hobbies or interests. Student and faculty cars were kept purring by boys in auto mechanics. In this way industrial arts students gained practical knowledge which would be valuable in later life while car owners profited from free repairs. A balance beam for gymnasts and lecterns and bookshelves for teachers were examples of work done by boys in wood shop. Spirit and pride were added to basketball games when two plywood Panther heads, cut out by shop students, were placed above the stage in the gym. The engines of faculty and student cars supplied fundamental training for Rocky McCaw, Don Booker and Jerry Maugherman.

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Mathematics provided challenge, promoted thought Slide rules played an important part in math and science classes. Bob Metro demonstrated division and multiplication to the chemistry class. Many spinning heads— confused jumbles of numbers, symbols and equations— walked out of math classes. It took time but finally students began to grasp the theorems and postulates of modern math. Problems were proved and equations solved as thoughts were organized and students gained knowledge to prepare for such careers as engineering, nursing and teaching. Students taking geometry discovered bits of algebra in the course, for in each could be found the basic concepts of the others. Temac Math allowed advanced students to cover all math courses at their own speed. Problems in mathematics presented a challenge to many students With pencil in hand, Cindy Brasel contemplated one such problem. 19 In geometry, Rich Rastovski illustrated angle measures for his classmates.