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BULLETIN 434_, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



Cheching results. — If time permits, it is well, while the animal is 

 before the class, to compare the scores given and discuss its points. 

 If there is no further time, the cards may be collected and graded 

 by the teacher and then discussed at the next class. A thorough 

 discussion of the score given will be very profitable. The teacher 

 should not be arbitrary in his judgment, but should make allowance 

 for a difference of opinion. 



If the records of production are obtainable they may be used in 

 checking the judgment of students as expressed in the scores given. 

 Often the farmer, although he does not keep a record, has an accurate 

 idea of the worth of his cow. The judgment of the student may be 

 compared with the judgment of the farmer. 



Fig. 13. — Large heart girth showing good chest capacity 



Comparative judging. — The scoring of animals is but preliminary 

 to what is now considered to be the more efficient method of judging; 

 that of comparison and placing according to merit. The student who 

 has used the score card carefully with a number of cows should be 

 prepared to take in the general conformation and detect the details 

 wdiich indicate the worth of the animal. In trying out the judgment 

 of students in comparative judging, usually at first four cows, which 

 have marked differences in ability, are chosen. As skill is developed 

 animals more nearly equal may be chosen. It is well to have students 

 study the market value of dairy cows in the district and place a 

 money value on the cows judged. (Fig. 14.) 



Reasons should be required for each placing. The form filled out 

 below is suggested for this exercise. Each animal should be num- 

 bered or lettered. 



Name of student, .John Jones. Date, April 26, 1916. 

 Class of animals, Dairy cows. 



