92 



NATURE-STUDY 



given on the structure of birds in general. Make a study 

 of feathers, their structure, colors and various uses. 



The wing of a bird, the bones, feathers, shapes of v^^ings of 



different kinds of birds, 

 and the power of flight 

 form another good 

 subject. 



The legs and feet 

 of different classes of 

 birds should be 

 studied, especially with 

 reference to their 

 adaptation to use and 

 environment. 



Similarly study the 

 different types of bills 

 with reference to the 

 food or other pur- 

 poses. Bring out the 

 fact that the feet and 

 the bills are among the chief features used in classifying the 

 birds. 



The nesting habits of birds should be observed by chil- 

 dren. At the same time teach them to be kind to the birds, 

 never to kill those that are harmless and useful, and not to 

 rob or destroy the nests. Let them try to encourage the birds 

 to build near their homes. Let them scatter food, expose 

 bits of thread, wool, horse-hair, cotton, feathers, etc., for the 

 birds to use in nest building. 



Have the children observe how the birds build the nest. 

 Where is the nest located ? Thus robins nest in trees, bank- 



Fig. II. Wing of Chicken with Quills and Coverts. 



