General Question

ljs22's avatar

What was the typical curriculum like for a student attending 9th grade in California in the late 1930s?

Asked by ljs22 (1077points) June 6th, 2008

How different would it have been from today? Any ideas about where to look for more information about what exactly a 14 year old would have studied 70 years ago?

Observing members: 0 Composing members: 0

4 Answers

shrubbery's avatar

You could find someone whose parents or grandparents were in grade 9 at about that time and see if they kept any of their things, I know my parents keep all my school reports and projects in a special filing cabinet.

gailcalled's avatar

I will ask my mother on Wed. She is 93 and was in ninth grade (Hollywood High I think) in 1928–1929. Is that close enough?

ljs22's avatar

@gail: Wow. That is exactly what I’m looking for. Any and all stories she has about her adolescence in Hollywood would be fascinating to me. I’m writing a young adult novel about that time period and location. Thank you!

gailcalled's avatar

She was not typical because of her extraordinary photogenic qualities. She was recruited by two talent agents from MGM and made at least 13 movies in 1931–32. Not a star but one of the dancers behind Mae West, Cary Grant, Jimmy Cagney, Joan Blondell, Kate Smith (in her only movie) and other people you have probably never heard of.

Also in several Busby Berkley mob scenes. PM me your email and I will send you a picture (with a Model A Ford in the background.)

Answer this question

Login

or

Join

to answer.

This question is in the General Section. Responses must be helpful and on-topic.

Your answer will be saved while you login or join.

Have a question? Ask Fluther!

What do you know more about?
or
Knowledge Networking @ Fluther