vi PREFACE 



prove the present-day courses in this subject, and is based 

 upon an exhaustive, comparative examination of the curricula 

 at the principal nature-study centres in this country. The 

 requirements of both city and rural schools are considered, 

 and enough material is given to permit a rich treatment in 

 either case. 



In the Appendix is a carefully selected, classified, and an- 

 notated list of reference books and nature readers. 



A few illustrations have been kindly loaned, for which 

 credit is given in each case. Mrs. Henry Parsons, Director 

 of the Children's Farm School, New York City, furnished 

 the photograph for figure 97. 



I acknowledge my indebtedness and express my gratitude 

 to all who have assisted or encouraged me in the preparation 

 of this book, particularly to my wife ; to my former colleagues, 

 Mr. John A. Hancock and Miss Martha V. Collins, of the 

 State Normal School, Mankato, Minn.; to Dr. Stuart H. 

 Rowe, of the Training School for Teachers, Brooklyn, N. Y. ; 

 and to Mr. Geo. P. Englehardt, Children's Museum, Brook- 

 lyn, N. Y. 



FREDERICK L. HOLTZ. 



Training School for Teachers, Brooklyn, N. Y. 

 Feb. 15, 1908. 



