LITERATURE IN PRIMARY GRADES I/ 



In composition original reproductions should now super- 

 sede composite exercises, the latter being used only for train- 

 ing in acquiring continuity of thought or in 

 Composition . . / r 



illustrating some special features of writing. 



For such purposes composite lessons remain valuable for 

 several years. In the original reproductions topics should be 

 given for short papers. If these are chosen from consecu- 

 tive stages of the story the child will have eventually the 

 complete narrative, a satisfaction to him, and a pleasure to 

 the teacher and the parent. Such papers should be made 

 into a note-book, as in the second grade. The first draft 

 should be the one preserved unless mistakes are very numer- 

 ous ; and even in this case it is advisable to keep the original 

 as well as the rewritten sheet, in order to stimulate the child 

 to do more careful work on succeeding first efforts. Weak- 

 ness is being educated when a child is allowed to rewrite 

 frequently. Insist upon clear pictures before the reproduc- 

 tion is attempted. If a child can close his eyes, so as to shut 

 out intrusive externals, and can imagine that he sees Sleepy 

 Hollow, Ichabod Crane, or the wild ride on Gunpowder, he 

 will be able to tell a more concise and vivid story than if the 

 writing is entered upon without the clear mental pictures. 

 The following story of King Midas is an original, uncor- 

 rected third grade reproduction : 



THE GOLDEN TOUCH 



Once there was a very rich king whose name was Midas. 

 He had a little daughter he liked odd names so he called her 

 Marygold. He had a dungeon under his palace. When he 

 3 



