22 NATURE STUDY LESSONS FOR PRIMARY GRADES 



where and when to turn ? (The lines are fastened to 

 a bit in the horse's mouth.) Of what are bits made ? 

 How do they look ? (Children show by a drawing.) 

 Afterward, if any child has never seen a bit, the 

 teacher shows one, explaining how and where the 

 lines are fastened. In what part of the mouth is 

 the bit held ? [Children observe that the horse has 

 front teeth and back teeth, and that between the two 

 groups of teeth there is quite a long vacant place. 

 Into this the bit fits. Children show place for bit 

 by diagram on the board. The teacher has a bridle 

 in the class.] What is this I have here ? (A bridle.) 

 What are these pieces of leather for ? (To hold the 

 bit in place.) Notice what is fastened to the sides of 

 the bridle. (Two square or oblong leather pieces.) 

 Why are they there ? (To keep the horse from see- 

 ing many things. He might become frightened at 

 some of these things.) Without these blinders, as 

 these pieces are called, could the horse see things 

 at either side without turning his head? How is 

 that? His eyes are so placed in his head that he 

 can see to the front and to the sides also. The eyes 

 are far apart and are large. Would you like to have 

 to look straight ahead all of the time ? Can you see 

 things to the right and left without turning your 



