Okemos High School - Tomahawk Yearbook (Okemos, MI)

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English Department Initiates Ungraded System oj “I’ll make thee glorious by my pen and famous by my sword,” reads a well-known epigram, which might be applied to OHS, for while teaching fencing in school is out of style, the English department still attempts to impress students with the power of the pen. In the past, a four-year English requisite program assured that every OHS student acquired an adequate English background. This year a new English system was adopted which offers a greater variety to students, with such classes as expository and creative writing, composition, business English, structures. These courses aim to develop in students the ability to write clearly and concisely and communicate effectively. Students of any grade may take as many as two of the non-graded courses but are not required to take any. It is debatable whether one can be taught to be a Steinbeck or Shakespeare, but those who are not inherently original or imaginative learn instead to recognize good writing through such classes as American, English and World Literature or short stories. Students in individual projects may read or write depending on their interest, as the class is oriented toward students who should work independently rather than in a group. An advanced placement English program is available for students complying to the grade requirements who wish to gain college credits. For those interested in extra reading, Mrs. Rachel Grinnell held a Good Book Seminar monthly. Students reviewed books by English, American and Norwegian authors and made individual reports on world religions at Christmas. The English department sponsored an English assembly March 10. Featuring folk singing, modern dance, American poetry and a radio play, senior Gary Weeber was Master of Ceremonies of the assembly. Mrs. Susan Smith, composition teacher, was chairman of the assembly, in which about 50 students from all classes participated.

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Standing Coach David Schuele gives a “chalk talk” to reserve players on the approaching game. Opponent Okemos Howell 12 7 Mason 0 20 O’Raflerty 0 6 Holt 0 0 Eaton Rapids 0 14 Gabriels 12 7 Haslett 6 0 11

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literature, Composition Courses Gary Weeber. Master of Ceremonies of the English assembly, observes junior Hutch Brown lead singing. 13 Freshman Don DeYoung attempts a Yoga stance. The Swan.' following instructions of a creative writing process paper.