PREFACE 



This book is designed as an aid and guide to the practical 

 teacher, and as a text-book in methods of nature-study for 

 normal and training schools. 



Part I is devoted to a discussion of underlying principles 

 and methods. A just appreciation of the purpose of nature- 

 study and a good technique in teaching are as essential as a 

 knowledge of subject-matter, especially in a subject like this, 

 which must be taught without text-books. 



Part II contains appropriate subject-matter of a biological 

 nature, and practical hints and suggestions on the collection 

 and care of material, and the presentation of lessons. I have, 

 however, avoided working out complete lesson-plans for the 

 teacher, believing it far better to allow her to adapt the sub- 

 ject-matter herself to her own conditions, and to give an op- 

 portunity for originality. 



Emphasis is placed on the teaching of life-histories, life- 

 habits, functions and processes, and not on mere structure 

 study. Of chief importance also in nature-study are the 

 adaptations to function and environment, the interrelations 

 of plants and animals, their economic aspects, and practical 

 bearing on human hfe. 



Part III consists of a course of nature-study for the eight 

 grades. It represents a serious effort to organize and im- 



