TO TEACHERS. 
9 
Technical terms are explained as we proceed; and the advantage in .this kind 
of explanation, over that of any abstract idea, is, that it is manifested to the 
senses of the pupils by the object before them. If a teacher attempt to define the 
words reason y will , &c., or any other abstract terms, there is danger that the pu¬ 
pil may, from misunderstanding the language used in the explanation, obtain 
but a very confused and imperfect idea of the definition; and, indeed, what two 
authors or philosophers give to abstract terms the same definition % Though 
mankind do not, in the purely mental operations, exhibit an entire uniformity, 
yet, in their external senses, they seldom disagree. A flower which appears to 
one person to be composed of six petals, with corolla bell-form, and of a yellow 
colour, is seen to be so by another. Pupils who find it difficult to understand 
their other studies, (which in early youth are often too abstract,) are usually de¬ 
lighted with this method of analyzing plants ; they feel that they understand the 
whole process by which they have brought out the result, and perhaps, for the 
first time, enjoy the pleasure of clear ideas upon a scientific subject. 
It is necessary, before the meeting of the class, to have a suitable number of 
plants collected, so that all may have specimens. In examining the pupils as they 
proceed in their study, each one, besides reciting a lesson, should be required to 
give an analysis of one or more plants ; sometimes the whole class having simi¬ 
lar flowers ; sometimes giving to each pupil permission to bring any plant she 
chooses. This, also, at public examinations, is a satisfactory method of testing 
their knowledge of the subject. With respect to those portions of the work to 
which their attention should most particularly be paid, it must be left to the judg¬ 
ment of the teacher. Whatever relates to modes of classification, and makes 
part of a system, should be noted; many remarks, illustrations, and quotations, 
are designed merely for reading, without being considered as important matter 
for recitation. 
The analysis at the bottom of each page, is designed rather to suggest the lead¬ 
ing subjects, f.han as a form of questions; for every experienced teacher must 
perceive the importance of varying his mode of questioning. 
