South Side High School - Totem Yearbook (Fort Wayne, IN)

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Science: Adjusting to a Complex World, the Science Department Fills the Gap and Leaves No Student Behind With such a qualified staff, students often find themselves 'blinded' with the excitement. ith times constantly changing, knowledge in the area of science is becoming increasingly important. Science is no longer a subject for merely the elite student. Recently it has become a necessity in dealing with many aspects of modern life, whether one is planning on entering a science-related career or not. South Side recognized this fact; and, therefore, the Science Department offers a variety of courses from freshman biology to advanced chemistry and physics. The qualified staff of Mr. Mustapha, Mr. Griggs, and Mr. Weber in biology in- troduces freshmen to the fundamental aspects of living things. Mustapha, who joined South Side's faculty this year, had the following to say about the importance of freshmen biology: Biology is the study of living things. Studying biology provides the chance for each student to learn about himself as a human being. I'm very pleased with the enthusiastic attitude that students at South have towards science. Mr. Davis teaches all chemistry classes, including the advanced chemistry. Davis's experience and skill in presenting his material in such a way that even the most difficult is understandable has made him popular among his students. Physics, a class designed for the most serious of science students, is taught by Mr. Bussard. This class introduces the concepts of velocity, acceleration, and other physical properties. All in all, the Science Department at South has something to offer for anyone. The combined experience and knowledge of the teachers make gaining a scientific understanding an enjoyable experience for all students. A pensive student, after reading her class assignment, looks up questioningly at her teacher. Mr. Weber explains the procedures of leaf collections to Scott Simon, senior, and classmate Vickie Sprague, junior. 17

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Although science is of obvious im- portance to those who plan a career in the field, it is important to everyone because science helps us understand the world around us. At South, the students are enthusiastic, and the subject is fascinating. — ScoHGimon The advanced science classes are becoming more and more popular. I think they have been really produc- tive because the majority of students are willing to learn. — Rae Michael Science in high school is important not only for college, but it helps peo- ple to understand everyday life. — Vickie Sprague Mr. Mustapha, South Side's new addition to the Science Department, explains the concepts of biology. hi! Bomersback, sophomore, studies the equations she has just learned in chemistry class. 16

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RVQ: I like RVQ a lot. It's fun and I know a lot more than before. The teachers really know what they are talking about. — Sieve Beam At first, RVQ didn't seem to be what I wanted. Then, after I gave it a chance, I found out that everything I needed to know was there. — Heidi Skelton The people are nice, and RVQ is really a lot of fun. It gives my day variety. I'm studying child care, and I get to work with little kids. It's great. — Amanda Golden Qtudents Take Oppori unity To Learn a Working Trade RVS offers a challenge while it gives experience. ne way to learn a trade is through a two-year program called RVS. Par- ticipation in RVS takes up to three hours a day and five days a week and is open to all juniors and seniors. The Regional Vocational School, where the instruction is given is located in the former Central High School building. RVS offers such programs as child care, data programing, beauty culture, automotive, health, and many others. The director of RVS at South is Miss Jennifer Manth. It was reported that at the beginning of the year there were about 100 people involved in RVS. Manth often says, RVS is an opportunity for a student to develop a skill that many may use after graduation. Theresa Summers, junior, said: It's really a good learning experience. It also helps you understand more about the field you're going into. RVS gives students the opportunity for variety in their schedules. During their junior year they attend classes at Central for a half day, and during their senior year they are introduced to the coop program. This program enables them to get on-the- job training while earning wages. Gerald Pennington, junior, explains the intricacies of computer keyboarding to Fred Perry, junior. Philaphonh Symongkhon, senior, uses the skills he has acquired in industrial arts class to operate the metal lathe. 18