1 82 HOW NATURE STUDY SHOULD BE TAUGHT 



read outdoor books that tell of nature's interesting 

 plants and animal life ? 



Answer. — Yes, sir. 



Teacher. — Marking, ioo. 



Then, too, there is an important observational, 

 as well as a questioning, examination. The enthu- 

 siastic teacher will find it a pleasure to note the 

 effects of nature study on the life and character 

 of the pupils. If nature study gives pleasure for 

 the time being only, it is still good ; but if wisely 

 and patiently done, it will surely refine the mind 

 and open out avenues for active sympathy and 

 helpfulness, and so uplift those who do not, at 

 first hand, know anything of the teaching and re- 

 fining spirit that Mother Nature imparts to those 

 who communicate with her. 



Tests for these results should be made, but they 

 are not to be found easily in written monthly ex- 

 aminations. They will show themselves in little 

 acts that may escape the notice of some teachers. 

 Watch for these little evidences. They are among 

 the most important tests of the proficiency of 

 your pupils in nature study. 



So much for the pupil. Now what shall be the 

 test of the teacher ? The writer suggests the fol- 

 lowing questions, not to be asked by others, but 



