Nostalgic Reflections: High School Classes That Stood the Test of Time
Despite the passage of time, certain high school classes and their teachings have left an indelible mark on my memory. This article delves into the subjects that have stood out in my recollection, examining both their positive impact and the unique teaching methods that left a lasting impression.
The Resilience of Learning
Education is about more than just rote memorization; it's about internalizing knowledge and using it to create something new. From the seemingly trivial subjects to the more complex ones, every class has contributed to my personal growth.
Miscellaneous Memories
Even the PE class, which many might consider the most useless, has left a lasting impression. Perhaps it taught me about perseverance and teamwork, or simply provided a contrast to the more academic subjects. While I may not have fully appreciated these classes at the time, the lessons learned have remained with me over the years.
Math and Language: Foundations of Knowledge
The subjects that have stood the test of time, however, are math and language. Even half a decade later, I can still apply what I learned in math and French classes. Inorganic chemistry, despite its importance, seems like a distant memory. Nevertheless, the principles I learned in these subjects have shaped my understanding of the world.
Philosophy and Literature: Echoes of the Past
Other classes like philosophy and world literature are less remembered. Yet, the names of philosophers and characters from literature still linger in my mind. Heraclitus of Ephesus, Descartes, Sartre, Kant, Kierkegaard, Phlegyas, Caliban, Faust, and L'Albatros from high school are but a few of the figures that continue to resonate. Though the details of World History and Geography may be fuzzy due to changes in names and borders, the fundamental concepts remain.
Outstanding Classes: A Parade of Memorable Moments
The classes that stand out most clearly are Health in the 9th grade, World History, Geometry (the first and only math class where I found enjoyment), Home Ec, and 10th grade Biology.
My Favorite Subject: Biology
Biology was a subject that brought clarity and enjoyment to my high school years. A particularly memorable teacher, despite his strict methods, made learning a thrilling experience.
A Repertoire of Discipline
One of the most impactful moments occurred mid-year when our primary teacher, set to become a principal, left the school. The new teacher, a college graduate and aspiring medical student, took over. This young man, known for his athletic prowess, became a key figure for discipline. The first instance involved a class clown whose antics caused disruption. Rather than simply reprimanding the student, the teacher took a more practical, albeit shocking, approach. He walked over to the student during a lecture, grabbed him by the throat, lifted him off the ground, and pinned him to the wall, all while continuing his lecture. This intervention lasted just a few minutes before the student was released to crawl back to his desk. The second instance involved a different student who was also misbehaving. Instead of empty threats, the teacher demanded the student accompany him to the school track after school. The student was given a whopping 20 pounds of books to carry and was made to run two miles around the track. This method resulted in a permanent change in the student's behavior.
No Police on Campus, No Problems
Those were times of relative calm and order. With no police presence and no disciplinary issues, the students were free to learn and grow.
Conclusion
This reflects not just the subjects I held dear in high school, but also the unique methods of teaching that helped to shape my understanding and appreciation of the material. Education is not just about the content one acquires, but also about the lessons learned in the process. These moments and memories are a testament to the enduring impact of high school education.