66 4 SCIENCE PROGRESS 



In 1890, the Organic Intermediate course was as follows : 



The composition, the properties and reactions and the more important 

 derivatives of the following substances : 



The principal series of Hydrocarbons (with special reference to their chief 

 Haloid and Nitro-derivatives). 



The Ethylic series (with special reference to ethers, esters or ethereal salts, 

 aldehydes, ketones and acids). 



Glycol. Glycerine ; natural fats. 



Amylaceous and Saccharine substances. 



Vegetable acids. 



Benzene and Toluene with the principal Phenols and Nitro-derivatives. 



Ammonias and the more important natural Alkaloids. 



Amides, Urea, Uric Acid. 



Cyanogen, Cyanides, Cyanates and Cyanurates. Glucosides. 



The processes of Saponification and Fermentation. 



The principles involved in Ultimate Organic Analysis and in the determination 

 of Molecular Weight. 



Again, the difference is merely nominal, except in the 

 practical work, which is now slightly superior to the old pass 

 but inferior to the old honours examination, as this included 

 the volumetric Pharmacopoeia work. It is noticeable that hydro- 

 lysis and fermentation could be examined on in 1890 but that the 

 latter is now left out, although of infinite importance from a 

 medical point of view. Evidence that the subject should be 

 taught with direct reference to its scientific application in 

 physiology and medicine can only be found in the entire 

 absence of reference to this desirability. Indeed, with such 

 syllabuses in operation, the authorities have no right to expect 

 any special knowledge of medical applications from candidates — 

 and the examination papers show that the examiners are either 

 alive to this fact or are unable to deal with the medical aspects 

 of the subject. 



In the true school of the future, teachers will not be restrained 

 by stereotyped syllabuses ; they will teach what is necessary 

 without reference to any narrowing schemes such as are now 

 forced upon them by persons who have no proper understand- 

 ing of the actual work. The syllabus is always a compromise 

 and representative of mediocrity ; it never reaches the high-water 

 mark of experience in a subject. 



It will be noted that the time prescribed for laboratory 

 work in both years is only twice that to be devoted to lectures. 

 Whether the time be sufficient or not need not be considered ; 

 it is certain, however, that long courses of lectures are now 

 thoroughly discredited as a means of giving elementary instruction. 



