The Mail-Journal, Volume 20, Number 47, Milford, Kosciusko County, 7 December 1983 — Page 13

School news

Math classes apply to changing technology

By GAILWIDMOYER Staff Writer The old adage that claims “You’re never too old to learn new things’’ typifies the two Milford Junior High School math teachers who have found themselves in the middle of a computer revolution. But Ron Carmichael and Phil Metcalf aren’t unarmed for their evolving task. “At least once or twice a week someone comes up with a problem (while working on a computer) that needs further research,” relayed Carmichael who teaches sixth and seventh

fig ?! WORKING WITH MATH - Ron Carmichael, left, and Phil Metcalf teach math at Milford Junior High School and although the tools for mathematics are evolving to include technological equipment such as computers, the pair still see basics as the most important aspect of their teaching. A saw that's equally at home in the yard, on the farm or in the forest. Features are the reason why. • 16" sprocket tip guide bar and chain • Chain Brake/Hand Guard safety feature • Automatic and on ly manual oiling A _ _ _ _ _ ■“ 5 338 95 «j»--- • 16.8 pounds complete 8 with bar and chain a Muffler shield and \/// MI other features for | performance and safety 1 - H & H Repair Shop, Inc. Diesel & Gas Engine Repairs — Lawn Mower Sales & Service 1 Mile South & % MHe East Os Nappanee k 219-7732488 .

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graders. “But we at least work out the problem,” added Metcalf who also teaches sixth and eighth grades. Neither had had formal training in computers until this fall when both were involved in a computer literacy, basic programming course through Ball State University. But the men aren’t afraid of the technological monsters. In fact, they claim the biggest problem with computers in the school is, “We only have four now and one of those is on loan.” “One in a room creates more problems than it solves,” explained Metcalf. “Ideally, com-

bining the elementary and junior high computers would help alleviate the problem.” Combining resources was tried for a one week computer literacy training session for the junior high schoolers and according to Carmichael, the junior high “really appreciates the coordination for the week.” Computer Uses While the future of computers is still uncertain, as was television and calculators when they were first introduced, the math teachers see the comuter’s importance. “Somewhere in their world (the students will) come into contact with a computer, be it in their work, at home or in their car, and we’re trying to keep them from being scared of computers,” Metcalf continued. When the computers are available, students can play mathematical software games and work on the machines during study time, study halls or noon hours. Carmichael and Metcalf agree the computer will never take the place of basic math functions and still stress the importance of learning the basics. “The computer works with math,” Carmichael elaborated. “There are logical steps you must follow to make the next step work.” “The kids still perform simple functions in their heads,” added Metcalf, “but they must plan strategies and use logic. We teach everything in the classroom first, then apply the concepts to the computer.” While teaching tools are constantly changing, techniques remain the same. The major purpose of the computer, according to Metcalf, is to “teach kids to think. Techniques, haven’t changed.” Each student is required to keep a folder which produces good feedback and helps with organizational skills. The math teachers stress problem solving and story problems as well as consumer math in away that makes them more personable than math teachers when they were young. But despite their techniques and the constantly changing tools, Carmichael and Metcalf primarily teach math and apply the concepts to classroom activities. Michele Miller is ISU Chorale Michele Miller, r 5 Syracuse, is a member of the Indiana State University Chorale. Miss Miller is a freshman mathematics education major and sings in the soprano section of the Chorale. The 36-voice mixed choir, directed by Raymond Meeh of the music faculty, gives several concerts on campus during the year. The group’s repertoire includes traditional as well as more modern pieces. RESCHEDULE MEETING Parents of Wawasee High School juniors and seniors are reminded the financial aid meeting cancelled Tuesday because of the weather will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m. in the WHS auditorium.

■MHEi Kcaii PI m ' la FURTHERING THEIR EDUCATION — North Webster Junior High students look for classical books to read for assignments in language arts class. Students read books relevant to their class, and then report what they have learned. Pictured above, are. kneeling. Bob Strom beck; standing left to right, Kris Madden. Traci Shoemaker and Jamie Stevens. (Photo by Mark Weinstein) What if Christmas came in the summer?

What if Christmas were to come in July? Wouldn’t it be pure agony to go shopping in the stiffling heat, carrying packages from store to store, while crying children beg for this toy, or that one. Would the twinkling lights give the same cheery glow, or would the cutting of the lawns tarnish the nativity scene during the hot summer month? Candles would melt in windows before they were even lit, stockings would be hung over the unus-. ed fireplaces, and Christmas cards would need to be changed to a wanner setting.

"JEF ■ <»* I J /■* w' >*JC <«j||jjjp?|r> £' L kW%r-' ; *\T * Ittd * .SPfyiPf ■ 1 * lijv i i VISITING WITH MR. ‘F’ — Kindergarten classes at Syracuse Elementary School met with Mr. ‘F’ and his funny feet several weeks ago. Each student wore his own funny feet to school to meet Mr. *F‘. Students also tasted fresh fruit while they studied the letter ‘F‘. In the picture are Mr. ‘F‘ and students from Mrs. Conrad's kindergarten class wearing their funny feet. (Photo by Cathy Brill)

SAY MERRY CHRISTMAS! I i „O -I i I / *“/ WITH • ' -X • / PERSONALIZED GIFTS I ' (<M_J * * X. -x) We have monogrammed ■ V stationery, i' \ r —napkins, t coasters, ■ playing cards an d book matches JJ ' 1■; The Mail-loumal 103 E. Main 206 S. Main j 457-3666 658-4111 i Syracuse Milford

Although it is true that no one really knows the exact date to the birth of Christ, many scholars believe it wasn’t during the winter season we observe today. Yet it seems so fitting to close the year with Christmas and enjoy the handywork of the Savior through the chilly conditions and beautiful snow. Instead of Christmas in the heat, we can replace the warm weather with the warm feelings of Christ’s love! Thank God Christmas comes when it does. That way, we can remember the true meaning as we snuggle up with our families!

■ 1 I flßßMSlMlisrtmr U R . .. > ■ >b-_-I yqmaßß . ■ ■■■ ASSIST WITH READING LOFT — The Milford Jayceettes donated funds towards the ronntruc tion of six reading lofts located in kindergarten, first grade and special education classes at Milford Elementary School. Parent volunteers helped with construction and built this loft in two nights. < Students from Carol Landrigan's first grade class pictured at the top from the left are: Scott Eisenhour. Brandon Beatty. Bethany Cockburn and Karena Zimmerman. In front from the left are Jayceette representatives and students from Cindy Kaiser’s first grade class: Kathy Beer. Lance Hostetler. Brandon Zartman, Heather Yoder and Becky Hamilton. (Photo by Gail Widmoyer) ■ I ’’3C? ’4 V -.'Wl ItW .a I -i, w CHRISTMAS ON THE BEACH AT WAIKIKI - Monday. Dec. 12. North Webster Schools will present their annual Christmas concert at 7:3d p.m. A group of boys from the fifth grade will be telling the audience in song what it would be Uke to spend “Christmas on the Beach at Waikiki.” Pictured above, in their Hawaiian attire, in front are Chad Brower. David Bowen. Justin DeSomer and Jason Mickley. In the back row are Matt Stump, Tracy Waalewyn and Dan McCray. (Photo by Mark Weinstein)

y\ Lakeland q|{gg| School Lunch 4 k, Menu > i&Sm. December 12-16 MONDAY - Ham patty sandwich with cheese, buttered potatoes, orange or banana half, cookie, milk. TUESDAY — Pina, bread and butter, tossed salad, pears or pineapple, pudding, milk. WEDNESDAY - Cheeseburger. potatoes with skins, apple salad or applesauce, brownie, milk. THURSDAY — Chicken Puerto Rican, cheese bread sticks, peas or green beans, cherry cobler, milk. FRIDAY — Fish-n-chips, bread and butter, fruit salad or peaches, cookie, milk.

Wed.. December 7,1983 — THE MAIL-JOURNAL

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