INTRODUCTION TO BOTANY. 



CHAPTER I. 

 LABORATORY WORK. 



1. Method of Study. — The study of plants, to be of much 

 value, requires accurate observation. This is best secured 

 by a definite and orderly record, by the student, of what 

 he has seen. Simple drawings are usually more effective 

 than a verbal description, and are therefore much used 

 in the work here outlined. Students unskilled in drawing 

 need not be discouraged by this requirement, for after 

 some time of persistent and patient effort the number of 

 those who cannot achieve passably good results is few 

 indeed. The drawings furnish the best possible mode of 

 expression in the study of form and structure, for they show 

 briefly and positively how well the student has observed. 



It is best, as a rule, not to point out the faults of the draw- 

 ings to the student, but to have him detect them, which he 

 rarely fails to be able to do when asked where the faults 

 lie. The drawings should be very simple, but never merely 

 sketchy. Every line should have a meaning and should 

 clearly indicate what it is intended to show. Only outlines 

 are desired ; shading is unnecessary, and should not be 

 attempted except by one who thoroughly understands its 

 application. 



