Petersburg High School - Missile Yearbook (Petersburg, VA)

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Languages Emphasize Global Understanding Listening attentively to French tapes, Chuck Meroth repeats words and phrases to increase conversational proficiency in the language. The increasing importance of languages can be seen in the re-vitalization of relationships between the nations of the world in which these languages are spoken. Also there is a greater emphasis than ever before on understanding among these nations, and it lies here that communication in the native tongue is most important. The Spanish and French languages, in addition to enabling us to communicate with the nations in South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, also allows us to make ourselves heard and re- spected in the countries of Europe. The Latin lan- guage contains the historical and cultural heritage of Western thought. Not only does the literature of this classical tongue reflect the creative and philos- ophic spirit of the ancients, but also its study pro- vides an excellent background for the mastery of the English language. This knowledge helps to form a well-rounded student, and the Language Department is aptly suited for the task. Lelia Walton Doan 1901-1967 Miss Doan’s friendly approach to Latin inspired many students in an often difficult subject. In class they learned much of the ancient customs of Rome, and as a culmination of the semester’s work held a real Roman feast. 24

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New Concepts Challenge Math Students In addition to teaching math classes, Mr. Alexander devotes much time to developing pictures for the Missile. The knowledge of mathematics is vital for anyone who wishes to progress in the ever-changing world. Because mathematics is a progressive study with new theories and techniques constantly being discovered, the mathematics department must adapt itself to meet the needs of the individual who wishes to apply his acquired knov ledge. The curriculum of Petersburg High School is well suited for the ambitious student to grasp this necessary information. Courses are offered in elementary, intermediate, and advanced algebra and geometry, including analytics and trig- onometry. Petersburg High’s well-trained mathematics teach- ers are also a great contributing factor in the educa- tion of the student. The modern student wants to know the why as well as the how of his work. With this kind of reasoning, the teacher guides the pupil progressively through his studies, making these technical skills more easily understandable. Our hemisphere is rapidly advancing with the rush of the Space Age. To help the individual adjust to this world around him, the mathematics depart- ment is making every effort to consider the needs of students at all levels. Fascinated by the various uses of the slide rule, Judy Lamberson and Martha Stronach practice techniques and skills.

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Use of the language lab enables French teacher, Miss Taylor, assisted by Ken Jeffer- son, to devote individual attention to the pronunciation and accent of her students. 25