THIRD GRADE WINTER WORK 153 



An old-fashioned spinning wheel and loom are also good 

 things to study. 



In a similar way a lesson may be given on animals having 

 hair for a covering. These are usually larger than fur-bear- 

 ing animals or sheep. Discuss the uses man makes of hair 

 and the methods of treatment he gives it. 



LESSON XXVII 

 ANIMAL COVERINGS VARIOUS KINDS 



What animals bear bristles ? Are these to keep the animal 

 warm? What has the pig to keep it warm? The layer of 

 fat under the skin is a non-conductor of heat, and the pig 

 needs no warm outer covering to keep it warm. What use is 

 made of the bristles ? 



What animal bears spines? What is their chief use to 

 their owner? Does man use them for any purpose? Give 

 examples of their use to animals having them. 



Discuss the scales of a fish, of a snake, or the larger plates 

 of the alligator, and show how the size, position, strength, and 

 peculiarities of these coverings serve the needs of their respec- 

 tive owners. Show samples, if possible. 



Let the pupils handle a fish and note how slippery it is, 

 made so by a gland which secretes an oily fluid over the 

 scales, lessening the friction of the fish through the water. 



The shells of the turtle family and their uses to the animals 

 and to man also should receive attention, while many lessons 

 could 'be given with profit on the shells of sea-inhabiting 

 animals. 



The tough, bare skins of the elephant, rhinoceros, and 

 hippopotamus, which in some instances have been known to 

 turn a bullet, will form the basis of a very interesting lesson. 



