This book is designed to encourage students to observe and think. It may also furnish some information about trees, birds, and heavenly bodies which will enhance the pleasure of living wherever these things can be seen. The language is simple enough for students in the sixth or seventh grade, the facts important enough for more mature students.
Part One may well be studied in the fall, Part Two in winter, and Part Three in spring, but it would be a mistake to restrict the study of any part to a single season, or to attempt to finish one part before taking up the next. In order to become familiar with the planets and brightest stars the student should view the heavens at different seasons. The trees and birds also change their appearance as the seasons change. They should be observed at all times of the year.
The student who is well started in nature study is likely to continue his outdoor observations, as opportunity affords, throughout his life. He will get a better start by using this book in school for two or more consecutive years than by going over all of it in one year.
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