THE STUDY OF THE RABBIT. 81 



STEP 1 . Comparison of different rabbits. 



Have pupils compare size, color, and markings of the 

 rabbits they have with others they have seen, to show 

 that they may differ in these respects and still be rab- 

 bits ; that is, that size, color, and markings may not be 

 important in classification. If they cannot compare 

 many rabbits, compare the cats they have seen, to im- 

 press the same thought. 



STEP 2. Comparison of rabbit and hare. 



Have pupils compare with hare or picture of hare, 

 bringing out similarity in general appearance and plan, 

 in possession of backbone, in being covered with fur, in 

 having teeth alike in number and character, and differ- 

 ences in length and color (?) of ears, and habit of bur- 

 rowing in the ground. The pupils will tell of other 

 points, but teacher should emphasize and clinch those 

 above. 



If slight comparison is made between the rabbit and 

 hare and the cat, the essential similarities will be im- 

 pressed by contrast. 



STEP 3. Comparison of rabbit and other rodents. 



Have pupils compare rabbit with squirrel, chipmunk, 

 rat, mouse (small for most satisfactory work), muskrat, 

 woodchuck, gopher, beaver, or other available gnawing 

 animals, bringing out similarities in general plan, bony 

 skeleton, possession of fur, and character of teeth, and 

 the essential differences: such as the climbing habits, 

 short ears, long, bushy tail, sharp claws, and greater 

 comparative length of upper incisors in the squirrels ; 

 the burrowing habits, thick, clumsy body and short legs 



