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POPULAR SCIENCE REVIEW. 
obtaining for their sons a knowledge of the principles of agricultural 
chemistry, or of natural history. Many of the large public and private 
schools are very tardy in introducing science to their “ list of subjects 
taught.” 
Much depends also on the teachers. It is for them, by their clear in- 
structions and good illustrations and experiments, to draw out the thinking 
powers of the students, and enlist their sympathy in the subject. It can- 
not be expected that all will be equally interested ; but the dormant 
powers may often be thus roused to active inquiry and keen observation. As 
much as possible the pupils should engage in practical work. The con- 
junctive action of the hands and head often generates an interest not other- 
wise attainable ; and workers are fond of using their hands. They should 
be encouraged to experiment at home ; to collect and arrange specimens, 
as in the formation of a local museum. Much interest is excited when 
the pupils will associate out of class hours for mutual help ; in the dis- 
cussion of points in their studies ; for excursions in search of natural 
history and geological specimens ; and for visits to museums and other 
places of interest. They would thus be preparing themselves to become 
useful members of any scientific society in the locality ; friendships would 
be cemented ; their subjects would grow upon them, and become a part 
of their existence, and a source of never-failing gratification. The perusal 
of scientific magazines by the advanced students will put them in com- 
munion with the superior labourers in the same field with themselves, 
and lead some, at least, to assist in unfolding the “unknown” in nature.* 
As an encouragement to deserving pupils, where the classes are large, 
one or two of the most promising students might be selected to act as 
science pupil teachers upon a plan similar to those in art and elementary 
schools. Their duties should be to repeat the lesson to young and back- 
ward students, or those joining the class at other times than the com- 
mencement of the course. If recognized by the Department of Science 
and Art, a gratuity or other inducement might be afforded to such pupil 
teachers. In preparing for the yearly examinations, and, indeed, at all 
times, it is well to accustom pupils to commit their knowledge to paper ; 
and great pains will be required on the part of the teacher in guiding them 
to state what they know in a short, clear, and full manner, with due 
attention to the correct use of scientific language. In the May exami- 
nations, the examiners have, so far, very wisely, required sound teaching 
in the first principles of their subjects : this course should be strictly per- 
severed in, if a good superstructure is to be raised ; while questions of 
* The students of the Liverpool School of Science have established a 
“ Students’ Association,” of which the objects are, to circulate scientific 
books and periodicals, and at suitable seasons to organize excursions with 
the teachers. About forty students joined the Association at its com- 
mencement, and paid an annual subscription of 2s. 6d. each, to which 
several added a donation. We understand that it is working well, and 
that the best scientific works are circulated amongst the members. It is 
under the management of a committee of students elected by the members. 
Perhaps this example may be deemed worthy of imitation elsewhere. Ed, 
