May, 1906 
the consideration of the 
properties of matter, and the mechan- 
ical powers. Following these come the 
mechanics of liquids and gases; heat, 
its phenomena and uses. The two 
succeeding years are taken up with 
sound, its phenomena; the ear; light, 
its phenomena; the eye; electricity 
and magnetism, with simple applica- 
tions thereof; the chemistry of com- 
bustion and other chemical studies of 
kindred importance. 
This instruction has within the last 
few years produced a_ remarkably 
beneficial effect upon the pupils who 
have entered upon careers either in 
commerce or manufactures. They are 
not specialists when they leave school, 
but they have been trained to bring 
their intelligence to bear upon the problems of commerce 
and the arts and sciences. That they are succeeding, the 
payrolls of the great institutions of the nation in which the 
partnership of science and commerce is most notable furnish 
ample evidence. 
It might be drawn from the facts stated that the present 
system of public school work is calculated to rob girls of 
domestic tastes and substitutes therefor the tastes that draw 
one away from the home and out into the business world. 
Inquiry along this line develops the interesting fact that in- 
stead of doing this it seems to enable the girls to make their 
own homes so much more attractive through the new ideas 
that study gives to them, that they have less inclination, where 
general 
AMERICAN HOMES AND GARDENS 
An Hour with the Microscope 
circumstances do not force them to adopt a business life, to 
leave home surroundings. On the other hand, the keener 
appreciation of what is going on in the world, about which 
the courses referred to give, is raising the standard of the 
home, both through the boys and girls. Where there is a 
steady demand supply soon finds a way, and inasmuch as a 
wider appreciation of life broadens the home needs, the boys 
and girls that are growing into young manhood and young 
womanhood are prepared to be the founders of homes that 
will raise the standard of manhood and womanhood. 
Viewed from the new educational standpoint, the public 
school and the home have formed a new alliance, one in which 
Nature and science play leading parts. 
A Vegetable Garden Planted and Cultivated by Public School Boys 
