256 METHODS IN TEACHING 



To give pupils a knowledge of geography sufficient for 

 the needs of a lifetime is manifestly impossible and is not 

 attempted. The work in the seventh grade practically com- 

 pletes the subject as presented in the grades. The aims 

 should be to develop interest in this science, which in its 

 entirety includes all natural sciences; to give the pupils a 

 definite plan or method for the acquisition of geographical 

 knowledge and for systematizing that which has already 

 been gained; to lay foundations for future knowledge and 

 studies by investigating some of the causes for present con- 

 ditions of the earth and among its inhabitants. 



The teacher must be satisfied to impress upon the mind of 

 the pupil the larger facts which are strongly characteristic 

 of countries and peoples. The attempt to hold pupils re- 

 sponsible for details of minor importance often renders first 

 causes obscure and colorless. For example : England mines, 

 manufactures, and engages in commerce. Why? She 

 mines because her territory contains coal, iron, and other 

 valuable minerals that are always in demand. She manu- 

 factures because the intelligence and inventive genius of her 

 people enable her to put her cheap fuel and valuable mineral 

 resources to the best possible use. She engages in commerce 

 because she must import food supplies and raw materials as 

 well as find markets for her manufactures. Such facts are 

 elementary in their relation to English life and to much of 

 her government policy; they should stand out even in the 

 mind of the grammar grade pupil. Details are added for 

 interest and clearer understanding, but they should never be 

 allowed to befog that which is essential. 



By the time children have reached the seventh grade they 

 can hold some clear ideas on the relation of the sun to the 





