1 6 THE THIRD YEARBOOK 



those engaged refuse to repeat their observations that their infer- 

 ences may be corrected. The natural test for the extent and 

 correctness of an observation Hes in the expression which the indi- 

 vidual is able to give respecting it. While it is not uncommon for 

 one to say that he sees and knows m.ore than he can express, it is 

 doubtful if this is ever true. The technique of expression in all 

 its forms is exceedingly simple. For instance, in expressing him- 

 self through a drawing, the pupil is required to do so by means of 

 lines, straight and curved, which he can draw with little or no 

 trouble. The real difficulty lies in putting the lines together at their 

 proper angle, and in their right relation. But this does not belong 

 to the technique of expression ; the inability to represent by drawing 

 must be referred, therefore, to the fact that the image is indistinct 

 as a result of insufficient observation. 



Again, in language, it is possible to describe things, most com- 

 plex, by the use of words that are employed in common speech ; 

 yet it is not uncommon for the pupils to say that they can see more 

 than they can tell, although their ability to talk may be beyond 

 question. 



In modeling, the clay is most plastic. It readily yields to treat- 

 ment; but there are comparatively few who can bring it into a 

 form which corresponds to the object observed. This is clearly not 

 the fault of the material used, nor of the ability of the pupil to mold 

 it ; but the difficulty lies rather in an imperfect image that has 

 been obtained through faulty or deficient observation. 



The accuracy and the extent of an observation depend upon the 

 purpose which controls the one who is making it. It is usually 

 true that the desired knowledge concerning an object may be 

 obtained through a partial examination, and the observation upon 

 this point will be clear in proportion to the importance of the 

 knowledge. All other knowledge of the object, which is absolutely 

 necessary if we are to have an image of it clear enough to enable 

 us fully to represent it by any means of expression, is weak and 

 defective because the observation has not been intense. 



Drawing, painting, modeling, etc., are difficult, therefore, because 

 they require an accuracy and extent of observation which is not 

 considered absolutely necessary by most people. For example, one 

 may know, for all practical purposes of his life, the house in which 

 he lives, and yet he may be utterly unable to represent that house 



