High School Science Classes: Memorable Experiences and Recollections

The classroom of high school holds many memorable moments, particularly when it comes to science classes. For many, these subjects were not only enlightening but also packed with exciting activities that brought theory into practice. In this article, we delve into some of the most cherished science classes and the unique ways they engaged students.

Physics: Real-Life Applications

Physics stands out as the most fun among many of my fellow students. This is largely due to the hands-on nature of the subject, which allowed us to apply our knowledge to real-world scenarios. Egg drop experiments and toy car races were just some of the activities that stirred curiosity and fostered a deeper understanding of physics concepts. These practical applications made the subject life more engaging and relatable for everyone involved.

Chemistry: Engaging and Preparatory

Surprisingly, it was chemistry that sparked the most excitement in my classes. We had an excellent instructor who laid a solid foundation not just in the principles of chemistry, but also in how chemistry would be taught at the collegiate level. What made these classes truly special was our double-period lab schedule, which provided us ample time for in-depth experiments. One of my lab partners, Jack, was known for his mischievous behavior. Our teacher purposely paired us up to keep Jack eligible for sports, but what we did in the lab became a fond memory. We used to sneak out early and head to an older student's home with a pool table, but Jack managed to pass chemistry with flying colors. More importantly, the learning materials from these classes were so thorough that I was able to use them when attending college, finding that our high school teacher was far more thorough than our college instructor.

Biology: A Hands-On Approach

Biology was a wonderful balance of classification, cell structure, and even dissection. The field trip was memorable, but the best part was the dissection of various animals, ranging from worms to clams and fish. These experiences offered a unique challenge and a different perspective on life and nature, which is often overlooked in a classroom setting.

Astronomy: A Glimpse into the Heavens

In my high school, we had a fully equipped observatory with a 12-inch telescope. It was a thrilling experience to view stars, galaxies, planets, and even take photographs of the Moon and the rings of Saturn. Under the guidance of a great teacher, we spent countless cold nights patiently and persistently taking stellar photographs and discovering elusive celestial objects. It was more than just a fun activity; it provided a deeper insight into the complexity and order of the universe, instilling a sense of wonder and respect for the cosmos.

A Modest High School Comedy: Mr. Brigden’s Parties

One particular memory from Grade 12 chemistry in 1965 stands out. Our class managed to cheat on a quiz by creating our own study materials. We split into teams, worked out the answers, and wrote them on the homeroom chalkboard. We then made copies, and just as the chemistry class began, we all rose in sync and submitted our completed quizzes. The surprise and shock on Mr. Brigden's face were priceless. After this, we threw a well-behaved party in celebration.

Recalling these experiences with cherished memories, it is clear that these science classes not only provided a solid foundation in their respective fields but also enriched our understanding through practical application and engaging activities. These lessons have stayed with us throughout our lives, shaping our views and interests in science.