Paxton High School - Reflector Yearbook (Paxton, IL)

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Languages FRENCH Two years of French are offered, namely, for the juniors and seniors. With a Latin background, the study of French is simplified; however, Latin is not a prerequisite for French. Instruction is given in the fundamentals of the language so that the student can read, write, and speak it with some degree of skill. These two years can also form a valuable foundation for college or university language work. Constantly, new words are added to our English vocabulary, and the vast majority of them originate in the Latin and French languages. Thus, through the study of these languages, our working vocabulary is greatly enriched. Language study exercises the memory; consequently, it is recognized as excellent mental discipline. Language study offers the opportunity to acquire such abilities as accuracy, skill, and careful attention to details. Most of the class work is carried on in French because speaking and understanding a modern language constitutes our primary aim. In addition to the text and readers, French newspapers increase comprehensive ability. During the second semester this year, an electric phonograph in the classroom made it possible to conduct a careful study of the pronunciation and intonation of French phoneticians. We also had a taste of French folk music. It is hoped that later we may add a recorder to our equipment so that the students can make records of their voices in order to discover and correct their speech errors. In April, a dinner in true French style was served by the Home Economics class for the students in the French classes. At this time a sound movie film of Paris was shown. Songs and games added to our imaginary French environment. LATIN The two years of Latin offered at Paxton High are usually taken during the freshman and sophomore years. Latin I is a course teaching the fundamentals of Latin grammar and pronunciation. The first semester of Latin II is also spent in a study of grammar and preparatory translation. During the last semester, the course consists of translating “Caesar’s Commentaries.” “Will it be to my advantage to study Latin?” This question must be answered annually by thousands of high school freshmen. Some arrive at a decision which is actually no more than a blind stab in the dark; others approach the problem in a very common-sense manner. Answering one question with another, those who are prepared to advise usually ask, “What do you plan to do?” If you want to follow certain professions, then by all means take Latin. These certain professions will always include medicine, law, pharmacy, nursing, and teaching. Although true, this is not inclusive enough. One of the most practical values of a study of Latin is too often overlooked—its aid in the everyday use of our own American speech. For everyone will have need of this, whatever his profession. Probably no other study gives the wide vocabulary and polished grammar which comes with a knowledge of Latin.

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English Our English courses have been so planned as to give every student a thorough knowledge of grammar, composition, and literature. Four years of English are required for this purpose. During all four years, outside reading in the form of fiction, biography, and drama is required in addition to classwork. Our excellent school library proves an invaluable source of books for both required and recreational reading. ENGLISH I During the first half of the freshman year, emphasis is laid upon the fundamentals of grammar and composition—how to speak before an audience, correct spelling and pronounciation, letter and theme writing, and punctuation. The other semester is devoted to a general study of literature, including short stories, essays, simpler poetry, and a Shakespearean drama, “Julius Caesar.” ENGLISH II Sophomore English also consists of a half year of grammar and composition, with the remaining time devoted to a study of literature. A very thorough review of the essentials of grammar and written composition is made. Although general, the study of literature is more detailed. ENGLISH III Junior English deals with the literature of England, tracing its development from the Anglo-Saxon epics to that of the present day. A study is made of the life and works of such famous authors as Chaucer, Shakespeare, and Milton. The last six weeks are devoted to a review of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. ENGLISH IV In senior English, we study the development and representative works of American literature. This is an especially interesting course because of our familiarity with American literature. During the last six weeks a final grammar review is made.

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Home Economics Miss Piper is in charge of the home economics department. The freshmen take clothing as a prerequisite to cooking their sophomore year, but both clothing and foods are selective courses and may be taken by juniors and seniors, too. Double periods are devoted to both. In clothing, girls learn how to plan and select clothes that suit their type, as well as make the garments. The principles of constructions and tailoring are taught. This year the girls helped to sponsor a commercial style show by Simplicity Pattern Company with Betty Shaw as educational stylist. In foods class the girls are divided into families. Each group plans, prepares and serves an entire menu during the laboratory periods. An extensive study of how food affects health forms a basis for meal planning. Special activities such as a Christmas Tea for Home Economics mothers, a buffet luncheon, a Valentine Tea, French Dinner, informal dinner, an Athletic Banquet, and the F. F. A. banquet are features of the year.