20 Lessons in Nature Study. 



the wings on these seeds. Can the wing be separated from 

 the seed ? Here we have a seed which is naked in the hol- 

 lows on the upper side of a cone-leaf (scale). When ripe it 

 loosens, drops out, flies away. 



Dip a cone in water. What effect ? Examine cones of 

 different trees ; also young and old cones from the same 

 tree. When young, they remain closed up tight. A short 

 branch of a pine-tree will often show as many as four or 

 five different crops of cones. Such a branch, where possi- 

 sible, should be brought into the class. 



Cones differ greatly in size, shape, and the form, etc., of 

 their scales (leaves). The author's public school has made 

 a collection of twelve different kinds of cones. 



GENERAL OBSERVATION ON THE STUDY OF 

 FRUITS. 



As fast as dry fruits are studied they should be mounted 

 upon a large stiff card. This is useful as a chart. It also 

 helps to ornament the room. By being before the children's 

 eyes they become more thoroughly familiar with the various 

 forms. The teacher should always be on the outlook for 

 dry fruits. In the fall a walk in the woods is sure to be 

 productive of a quantity of dry pods of various things. 

 These, put away, can be brought out when snow lies upon 

 the ground. Children, once started collecting, will keep 

 the class-room abundantly supplied. 



An example is given of pupil's descriptive papers. When 

 a leaf, flower, or seed has been thoroughly studied, the 

 pupil should place his knowledge on paper. 



The Apple. 



(Description by Doretta N. Wagner, age twelve. Drawing by 

 Charles Miller.) 



The apple is a delicious fruit, and I do not wonder that 

 Adam and Eve were tempted. The apple I have is about the 

 size of an orange or breadfruit. It is something the shape of 



