ANIMAL STUDY 1 99 



flies; the ant lions, which form the curious, funnel-shaped 

 traps for catching their prey; and, where the leaves of the 

 white mulberry are found, there are the silkworms. Any 

 of the insects mentioned can be reared successfully in a 

 closed cage containing a little soil, if there is good ventila- 

 tion and a daily supply of fresh food. Most caterpillars 

 can be reared in open pasteboard boxes, but mice destroy 

 them, and they wander much just before entering the chry- 

 salis stage. 



LESSONS ON OTHER ANIMALS 



In the lower grades it will be found worth while to make 

 comparative studies of such animals as the chicken and the 

 duck, the cat and the rabbit, the dog and the sheep, the cow 

 and the horse, and other familiar animals. Have the pupils 

 discuss under guidance and in a comparative way struc- 

 ture, food, general habits, keenness of sight, smell, and 

 hearing, and the various uses of animals to man. 



The common birds should be known by name; there 



should be discussions on the habits of those 

 Birds 



that are well known, nest-building, food, 



song, migration. 



Study the dog as to the general features of his structure. 

 Compare with the cat. Tell the pupils what is known of 

 the origin of the domestic dog. Discuss 

 varieties and their uses to man. Lead "the 

 pupils to a consideration of the characteristics which make 

 dogs interesting companions or servants, faithfulness, 

 affection, obedience, courage, strength, speed, and the won- 

 derfully keen senses. With older pupils discuss peculiar 

 habits, such as howling, burying bones, turning about before 



