Common Subjects:
* Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic: These were the core subjects, emphasized heavily across all schools. The focus was on rote memorization and basic skills.
* Grammar and Composition: A strong emphasis on proper grammar and the ability to write clearly and concisely was prevalent. This often involved memorizing grammar rules and practicing formal essay writing.
* History: American history was a cornerstone, often a very nationalistic and celebratory version. World history was less common, and usually covered in a very cursory manner.
* Geography: Memorizing maps, capitals, and geographical features was a significant part of the curriculum.
* Science: Science education was less developed than today. It often focused on basic biology, physics, and chemistry, with a practical, hands-on approach less common than rote learning.
* Civics: This subject aimed to instill civic duty and patriotism, often promoting a specific ideology of the time.
* Hygiene and Health: Basic hygiene practices were taught to improve public health.
* Manual Training/Home Economics: These subjects focused on practical skills. Boys might learn woodworking or shop skills, while girls would learn sewing, cooking, and other domestic skills. This reflected societal gender roles of the time.
Notable Differences from Today:
* Less Emphasis on Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The focus was largely on memorization and recitation, with less emphasis on critical thinking and applying knowledge in creative ways.
* Segregation: Many schools were racially segregated in the US and other parts of the world.
* Gendered Curriculum: Subjects were often explicitly gendered, reflecting societal expectations.
* Limited Access to Education: Education wasn't universally accessible. Many children, particularly from rural areas or poor families, didn't attend school beyond elementary grades.
* Absence of many modern subjects: Subjects like computer science, environmental science, and many aspects of social studies as we know them today simply didn't exist in the curriculum.
In short, the education of 1923 was far more basic, rote, and less inclusive than today's education. It reflected the societal norms and technological limitations of its time. To get a truly accurate picture, one would need to examine specific school records and curriculum documents from that era.