THE TEACHING OF BIOLOGY


 Eyes to see, ears to hear, noses.... The spirit of observation is
exploration. The following are typical of the emphases of a
field trip:
 1. Form and color. The chief aspects of identification, the
 principal terms of description, the progressive changes of
 growth, are usually given as aspects of form and color.
 Practice to develop form and color consciousness is of
 highest value.
 2. Plants and animals living together as friends or enemies.
 Stress lessons as to man's place in nature.
 3. Habitats and habits of the local animals, particularly
 birds, insects, frogs, lizards, fish, mammals. Identify
 those friendly to man.
 4. Habitats and adaptations of plants, particularly the form
 and arrangement of leaves, mechanisms of pollination,
 seed dispersal, protection.
 5. Recognition of abundant local plants and animals by
 common names, and the technical names as far as their
 orders or families. Learn to avoid dangerous plants and
 animals.
 6. Special attention to the production of important local
 crops and farm animals, such as citrus, truck, ranching,
 and the like. Know your community's resources.
Keep collecting! Bring 'em back . The trophies should
include:
 1. Specimens for study. Students are willing helpers in pro-
 viding this material. Even the students of the lower grades
 should be encouraged to be scouts for the biology depart-
 ment.
 2. Live specimens. Stocking the aquarium and terrarium is
 particularly easy in Florida. This activity should occupy
 many field excursions, and carry over into many inter-
 esting classroom hours.
 3. Soil, rocks, and minerals of the region. A supply should
 be on hand for study of subjects related to biology.