METALS 979 
Occurrence.—Iron Pyrites occurs plentifully in both 
North and South Islands of New Zealand, especially in 
Quartz-mining districts. It is found in most other 
countries. 
Nore.—Though more suitable for country schools, or those 
within reach of mineral products, lessons on minerals need not, 
indeed should not, be omitted in any schools. It is not a difficult 
matter to collect specimens if one is really in earnest about it. 
The display may be small at first, but when once a beginning is 
made it will steadily grow, and gradually become a most useful 
school asset. Apart from the educative nature of these lessons, 
the knowledge acquired may prove of extreme value in a country 
like New Zealand, abounding as it does in mineral wealth, much 
of which is still untapped. 
The lessons themselves may be begun in the lowest classes— 
where children can determine by observation some of the simpler 
properties of minerals—and gradually be expanded as the pupils 
become older and more intelligent. 
The minerals dealt with have necessarily been few. They are 
however, forms easily procured, and the treatment it is hoped will 
indicate how the investigation of other minerals may be under- 
taken. Galena or Sulphide of Lead, Stibnite or Sulphide of 
Antimony, the Oxides of Iron, Ores of Copper, and other minerals 
are all procurable, and will furnish excellent subjects for further 
treatment. 
A tabulated record of each investigation should be kept, since 
to this constant reference should be made during the progress of 
the lessons. 
IX —METALS. 
Minerals and Metals.—It is usual to include 
minerals and metals under the same heading —that is, to 
make no distinction between them. True, they both be- 
long to the mineral kingdom ; but there is between them 
a very real and very obvious difference, and one, moreover 
which children—especially those in the upper classes who 
have examined afew minerals in the way indicated, will 
