INTRODUCTION 



THE problem of working out suitable nature study 

 lessons for primary grades involves numerous diffi- 

 culties, which can best be solved by enthusiastic 

 teachers working with the children. It is only thus 

 that the broad general requirements of elementary 

 science instruction can be adapted to the immature 

 minds of little children. 



In a general way it is not difficult to point out the 

 requirements of this study, such as a growing in- 

 terest in plants, animals, and weather conditions, and 

 a closer habit of observation. 



But a selection of the common objects upon which 

 to focus the observations of children and the manner 

 of directing their attention to these objects call out 

 the best skill of experienced teachers. 



One of the prepossessions which an adult teacher 

 must get rid of in dealing with children in the midst 

 of nature is the idea of system and classification in 

 science. There should be no haste to reach the 

 wise conclusions of the scientists. Children are more 

 easily and properly absorbed in the objects and their 

 surroundings, and there will be plenty of time later 



