Memphis University School - Owl Yearbook (Memphis, TN)

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Mr. Smith helps A. P. students Langdon and Johnson set up distillation apparatus. Mass variation at velocities approaching the speed of light is discussed by Mr. O ' Kelly. Mr. Shurlds explains determination of pressure to 10th Phys- Chem class. 23

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SCIENCES TAUGHT IN CLASSROOM AND LABS Science courses at AAUS this year, as in the past, emphasized extensive laboratory experimentation to stimulate stud ent interest and learning through in- dividual discovery. The Chairman of the Science Department was Mr. Robert F. Smith, v ho holds a B.A. degree from Michigan State University. Other teachers v ere: Mr. Rene Alberto Fuste, Mr. Charles L. Shurlds, and Mr. Thomas P. Powell. Mr. Fuste holds a B.S. degree from Baldor College, Havana, Cuba, and an A.E. de- gree from Havana University. Graduates of Mem- phis State University, Mr. Shurlds and Mr. Powell have B.S. degrees. Earth Science, taught by Mr. Powell, and General Science, taught by Mr. Shurlds, provided lower form students with a broad introduction to the sciences. Students in these courses gained a basic knowledge and understanding of the natural and man-made wonders of science. Physics-Chemistry, a required course for sopho- mores, presented a well-integrated survey of both physics and chemistry. The instructors, Mr. Smith, Mr. Fuste, and Mr. Shurlds, often performed experi- ments in front of the class, thus making sessions both interesting and enlightening. Physics-Chemistry was a valuable course to those students who intend to take further courses in the sciences as Juniors or Seniors. Chemistry and Physics offered studies in depth of both principles and concepts, their application, and their relevancy to the world of man. Taking advantage of the fine facilities at MUS, Messrs. Smith and Fuste had their students spending one-third of their weekly class time doing laboratory work, and some students spent extra time to work on indi- vidual projects. Classroom discussions and relevant films supplemented the lab work. Advanced placement courses in physics and chem- istry were offered, with students meeting in spe- cial sessions to discuss more advanced subjects and to perform more complex experiments. A. P. Chemis- try, taught by Mr. Smith, entailed around four hours of laboratory work per week. Lewis B. O ' Keiiy, a professor of Nuclear Physics and Electrodynamics at Memphis State University, was the instructor for Ad- vanced Placement Physics. Occasionally, the class used the facilities at Memphis State, once to observe radiation and polarized light phenomena. Both cours- es prepared students well for the Advanced Place- ment Exams and possible further advanced study in college. Mr. Fuste points out a student ' s error. 22

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MATHEMATIC9 The study of mathematics, engaged in by practically every student, was directed toward giving the stu- dents a sound training in the techniques of mathe- matical thinking and a thorough understanding of the basic structure of mathematics. Courses ranged from general mathematics to calculus and analytic geometry. There was also an Independent Study course for seniors who were qualified to take Calculus but who did not wish to do so. The four students planning to take the AP exam studied Calculus for three semesters. The Department of Mathematics was directed by Mr. Evin Perdue, who received his B.S. degree from Southwestern at Memphis and his M.A. degree from Memphis State University. Other instructors were Mr. John Springfield, B.A., Southwestern at Memphis, M.F.A., Princeton University; Mr. James E. Wright, B.S., George Peabody College; and Mr. Grady Gar- rison, B.A., Vanderbilt University. Proiecfion of Mr. Perdue ' s hand looms ominously over Senior Math class. Mr. Springfield goes over problem with junior Phil Crawford. 24