(In certain versions of this etext [in certain browsers]clicking on this symbol (etext transcriber's note) |
,or directly on the image,will bring up a larger version of the image.)SCHOOL READING BY GRADES
{1}
FIFTH YEAR
BY
JAMES BALDWIN
NEW YORK CINCINNATI CHICAGO
AMERICAN BOOK COMPANY
Copyright, 1897, by
AMERICAN BOOK COMPANY.
SCH. READ. FIFTH YEAR.
W. P. 29
PREFACE.
The pupil who has read the earlier numbers of this series is nowprepared to study with some degree of care the peculiarities of stylewhich distinguish the different selections in the present volume. Hence,while due attention must be given to the study of words merely aswords,—that is to spelling, defining, and pronouncing,—considerabletime should be occupied in observing and discussing the literarycontents, the author’s manner of narrating a story, of describing anaction or an appearance, of portraying emotion, of producing animpression upon the mind of the reader or the hearer. The pupils shouldbe encouraged to seek for and point out the particular passages orexpressions in each selection which are distinguished for their beauty,their truth, or their peculiar adaptability to the purpose in view. Thehabit should be cultivated of looking for and enjoying the admirablequalities of any literary production, and particularly of suchproductions as are by common consent recognized as classical.
The lessons in this volume have been selected and arranged with a viewtowards several ends: to interest the young reader; to cultivate a tastefor the best style of literature as regards both thought and expression;to point the way to an acquaintance with good books; to appeal to thepupil’s sense of duty, and strengthen his desire to do right; to arousepatriotic feelings and a just pride in the achievements of ourcountrymen; and incidentally to add somewhat to the learner’s knowledgeof history and science and art.
The illustrations will prove to be valuable adjuncts to the text.Spelling, defining, and punctuation should continue to receive specialattention. Difficult words and idiomatic expressions should be carefullystudied with the aid of the dictionary and of the Word List at the endof this volume. Persistent and systematic practice in the pronunciationof these words and of other difficult combinations of sounds will aid intraining the pupils’ voices to habits of careful