McKinley High School - President Yearbook (Buffalo, NY)

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T11 E A RY 'I SAN 65 Fred Harsch Ferdinand E. Kamprath Norman E. Metz 2-avg Mathematics ln treating the subject of trade mathematics at McKinley Vocational School, the aim has been to limit this otherwise abstract and terrifying branch of learning to its practical applications in the various trades taught at the insti- tution. This objective, however, necessarily involves the knowledge of various formulas as well as the thorough understanding of the elementary mathematical processes. For this reason our junior classes are given a great amount of drill in the fundamental topics of algebra-addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, the solution of linear and quadratic equations and problems dealing with their applications, fractions, fractional equations, and pa.rticul.arly, the mensuration, of general geometric areas and volumes. Our senior classes are given a most extensive drill in the solution of the general types of problems that will be encountered in their respective trades. These problems vary, of course, for dittercnt occupations. In most building trades for example, a ready knowledge of mensuration is most essential. Vlfith this end in view, we are trained not only in the handling of concrete problems, but in the derivation of the formulas used, as well. ln other trades geometric form and construction are important, we are therefore, given demonstration and practice in the use of the straight-edge and compass, An investigation into the operations of numerical trigonometry is entered upon for the benetit of those of us whose calling may require some insight into that most useful subject. Throughout all this work in mathematics several important points have been kept clearly in view and methods followed accordingly. Pure memory Work has been reduced to a. minimum. Merely to memorize a formula, for example, without any knowledge of its derivation is time practieall,v Wasted. Vlfhercas, when the process of obtaining a formula is understood, it can easily be recalled should it have slipped away from memory. Tn this connection. we are given problems that are as general and yet as varied as possible, so that we will be able to recognize what formula, should be used or what method should be employed in attacking any problem that may confront us in our daily work. Apart from all these considerations, however, the prime object has been to instill into our hearts and minds the fundamentals of good American citizenship. 'While the abstractions and pseudo-difficulties of algebra and geometry may not have much direct bearing upon this lofty aim, these studies should, nevertheless, by their incentive to' accuracy, by stimulating interest in mental activity and promoting mental endurance, through their broadening of reasoning and per- ceptive powers, along with the inenleation of good disciplinary habits from the class-room, do much to spur us on to a lifelong creditable American citizenship.

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64 TH E ARTISAN Sheet Metal drafting covers another type of drawing. Layout work for the construction of fittings used, is the most essential in this trade. 'We draw problems using' parallel lines, radial lines, triangulation and mensuration. Hot air heating systems are discussed and Worked out. Sizes of pipes and outlets are figured for different type houses and some time is spent on estimating. In our cabinet-making class we learn the various joints and names of parts by llaving to inake drawings of useful articles in which these are incorporated. We make the worlcing drawings of drawing boards, tee squares, window and door frames, stairs, kitchen cabinets, etc., on all of which we get practical work in the shop later. The pattern maker and machinist applies his trade drawing more directly to his Work, than the other tradesmen here at McKinley. In pattern making a drawing or shop layout is made for every detail or part of the pattern being built. Because of this required step drawing is most iniportafut. VVe are taught the rudiments of our drafting as We progress in our shop work, complete layouts being made for each pattern before we attempt to make it in tl1e shop. Our preliminary Work in machine shop drawing consists largely of drawing sueh simple objects V blocks, grooved blocks, bearings, bushings, pulleys, shaft hangers, hand wheels, etc. During our Work on these projects We learn the essentials of mechanical drawing sueh as types of lines used, projection, geo- metric constructions, etc. Our next problems are more difficult, touching on detail and assembly and later in designing of machine parts and machines. We cover drawing, tracing. and blueprint making for all work in all trades, LESSON IN MATHEMATICS

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55 THE Ll.Iii7'lS1l.N John Collins l Vvilliarrl M. Sharp Vvallie C, Englund English ln the English classroom we have received instructions in the use of correct English in its application to our trade. VVe have had practice in the spelling and use of trade terms. Expositions on our trade knowledge in the form of processes, operations, and projects have constituted a large proportion of our oral and written work. Industry today necessitates and demands exact under- standing of orders received as well as an ability to give orders and explain clearly the work at hand. YVe were taught the proper writing of business and friendly letters which we shall have to Write in the future. Down with the gross errors of English! is the cry at McKinley. The necessity of it is evident if we wish to better ourselves socially and advance to a high position in our occupation. We feel that we have been instilled with the desire to use correct English. , Sufncient time was spent in the reading of good books to inculcatc an enjoy- ment aud appreciation of what is best in literature. One period a Week was taken up by current topics given by each pupil in the class. These topics consisted of up-to-date news of importance such as scientific endeavor, political programs, and trade news. Material for these talks was obtained from the daily newspapers, The Literary Digest, trade magazines and numerous other first class magazines. Another valuable phase of our English was that of Debating and informal argument. This work tended to arouse much interest for the questions were of vital importance to the class. The classes were divided into teams. This pro- vided the spirit of a game. Each had to set forth a. particular part of the proof. As a result of this work we developed confidence in ourselves. Debating also gives us valuable practice in clear thinking, quick and accurate judgment, fore- sight and expression. Consideration was given to conversation such as a talk or an interview between employer and employee. One boy took the role as the employer and another boy the part of the employee. This provides the boy with the necessary preparation for contact with his future employers. As a result the boy appears at a. better advantage when he goes out into industry due to his added confidence in himself. s