THE EXPRESSIVE \VORK OF THE SCHOOL. 24l 



The object of expression is threefold, as was shown 

 in Chapter VIII:- 



First. To make our own ideas more clear and orderly. 



Second. To convey our ideas to others, and enable 

 us to influence them. 



Third. To give us a means or medium through which 

 we can receive ideas from others. 



We must keep these in mind in our discussion of the 

 relation of nature study to the expressive work of the 

 school. 



In much of our work in the past we have made use 

 of only one form of expression, language, oral and 

 written. As we study the children we appreciate the 

 fact that there are many other forms of expression, some 

 of them much more expressive for the children than lan- 

 guage. We find it necessary to consider the uses and 

 relative value in nature study of these various forms of 

 expression ; viz. : - 



MOTION OR GESTURE. DRAWING. 



Music. PAINTING. 



SEWING. LANGUAGE. 

 MOULDING. 



Long before the child can use a word he has learned 

 to express his wants and feelings by gestures, or move- 

 ments of his body. This is a most natural form of ex- 

 pression, which he continues to use throughout life. 

 It is particularly effective in telling about action, posi- 

 tion, and direction. Watch children use their hands, 



