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The Exeter Times-Advocate, 1928-10-18, Page 6THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18th, 1928 THE EXETER TIMES,ADVOCATE West Huron Teachers Convene at Goderich Registered Attendance 147.—Mr. S. Pickles Londkm Normal Dep’t Re­ presentative. The fifty-first Annual Convention of West Huron Teachers was held in Victoria School, Goderich on Oc­ tober 11 and 12th. The president Miss I. E. Sharman, presided. Thursday Morning Session Devotional exercises were taken by Mr. J. E. Toni, ex.I. P. S. The minutes of the last session of 1927 were read and approved. Mr. J. E. Tom opened the session with a review of his term of inspec­ tion extending over a period of 42 years, beginning in March 1886 and ending in August 1928. Three teachers then on his list are still in the profession: viz, Miss I. E. Shar­ man, Central School, Goderich; Miss Kate Watson, Victoria School, Gode­ rich and Mr. Geo. Woods, Saltford. He referred to the many changes noted as the years passed, particu­ larly in the decrease of school at­ tendance, changes among teachers and in the school buildings and equipment. He gave some wise advice to the teachers present by pointing out the advantages, in position and salary, attained by those who qualify for higher standing. He concluded his remarks by extending to the teachers his best wishes, then introduced his successor, Mr. E. C. Beacom, B.A., who left a very favorable impress­ ion on the teachers. He spoke high­ ly of the work being done in the schools already visited and express- his desire to co-operate in obtaining the best results possible. having trouble? OTHER fellows use the same tires, run the same distance, cover the same roads—and have no trouble at all. Test your tire pressure every week. Don’t guess it — gauge it. Run round to a Dominion Tire Depot and have the pressure checked and your tires inspected. Let an expert search for cuts and bruises. A slight repair in time may prevent a blowout, and add a few thousand miles to-the life of your tires. You are never far away from a 229 DOMINION TIRE DEPOT JOHN TAYLOR •7 cO O* Fire-protection is all important in modern building. Help protect your home from the menace of fire by using Brantford Roofing. All Brantford Roofing products are fire-re- tardent and usually reduce insurance rates by 10 to 20 per cent. Specify • Brantford for permanent roofing satisfaction. Brantford Roofing Co. Limited Brantford, Ontario; Brantford roofs _ Stock Carried* Information Furnished and Servic* on Brantford Roofing tendered by Ross-Taylor Co., Ltd., * - Exeter 0 'V He stated that composition of all subjects is the poorest taught and so should receive more attention than is generally given to it. It may be co-related with such sub­ jects as geography, history and na­ ture-study, etc. and should be based on topics of interest to the children. The new manuals should be in every school and should be thorough­ ly studied by the teachers. The li­ brary should be well stored with readable books and the students should be encouraged to make use of them. The school ground is a good place to build up character as there, many opportunities present themselves for correction. He concluded by offering his as_ sitance to any teacher who wished to consult him on any question per­ taining to school work. Miss Anna Woods, of Bayfield, gave a paper on Primary work showing how she would conduct a class in reading. She recommend­ ed. the use of nursery rhymes, phon­ ic charts, etc. Her method is to deal with one sound then using that sound build up syllables and words: e.g., a, ma, pa, sa, ta, etc. When this is learned others may be sub­ stituted. Manuals dealing with this method may be obtained from Thos. Nelson’s & Son or from the Mac­ Millan Company. A question, previously submitted regarding the teaching of arithmetic was then taken. She suggested the use of calendar numbers, etc. A 'second question regarding the teach­ ing of writing with beginners. She has the pupils make the characters on the black board being careful to see that each is properly made. Songs and .games are used to good effect, when the interest lags. There should be four reading lessons each day with this class. Inspector Bea­ com spoke along the same line. Mrs Dorothy Koehler, of Zurich, look First Book work which in­ cludes the three R’s. She would insist on the proper position of the child when standing to read. As in_ terest lags physical drill may be tak­ en foi" a few moments. Useful seat­ work should be given to keep the pupils busy. Miss Lottie Robinson and Mr. G, S. Howard reported on the proceed- ings of the O.E.A., held in Toronto during Easter week of 1928. Space will not permit giving an abstract of the papers. The proceedings are published in book form by the Pro­ vincial Association, copies of which may be obtained by wrting the se­ cretary, Mr. W. F. Moore, Dundas, Ont. Thursday Afternoon Session After the reading of the minutes the vacancy on the resolution com­ mittee caused by the absence of Mr. Win, McKay recently superannuated was 'filled by the appointment of Miss Lila McCullough. Mr. Si. Pickles, of London Normal School, gave an excellent paper on “Manual Training for Seat Work.’’ He pointed out to the teachers the joy that should be experienced in the school room with the children. The most important time, in the children’s school life is the first week of attendance when they will either hate or love school for all time to come. Few children are mental­ ly deficient and of these many can be greatly assisted by a 'wise teach­ er. With beginners he would have them cut figures out of pictures as a profitable seat exercise thus train­ ing their mental faculties in the operation as well as hand skill. Drawing is a valuable exercise for seat work and all children can be taught through time to become ef­ ficient. The instinct to draw has been common to all through out the ages. With continued practice they will get to like that which they once hated. Plasticine may, be used as seat work, by rolling it into marbles and long strings which may be shap_ ed into figures, letters, etc. Paper folding is a useful exercise. The shaping, folding and fastening may be done at home thus linking home and school in a common interest, the development of the child. Designing leads the children to think for themselves, work out things in their own way without be­ ing directed by superior authority. This brings out their artistic abil­ ity. The paper was one of great inter­ est to the children. Miss M. A. Ellis, of Hensail, gave a paper on Second Book work deal­ ing with the course covered by the class at out-lined in the curriculum Literature and Reading are the two leading subjects of this grade. Pu­ pils must understand what they read in order to keep up their-inter­ est. Attention should be given to the proper pronunciation of words commonly mispronounced e. g., “’em” for “them” and “,goin”’ for “going” and such like. With com­ position written and oral, and 'spell­ ing attention should be directed to the use of the past tense for the per­ fect participle an vicaversa. Giving full answers to all questions tends to develop thought and writing short stories on Nature Study topics proves interesting. After marking the errors in these she has the pu­ pils re-write the story in the proper form. Pupils of this grade should be able to add. subtract, multiply and divide with senventy-five per cent, accuracy before passing to the next form. Mr. G. Mawson then followed dealing with Third Book work. He outlined the course a's laid down in the curriculum of studies then show­ ed his method of taking the various subjects. Success in the Primary grade follows the pupils through all the higher forms. The questions submitted by the teachers were dealt 1. How can you get accur­ acy in arithmetic? To this he sug­ gested giving easier problems, using oral drills daily, and by constant re­ views of the work gone over. 2. Should notes be given in History? To this expressions by the teachers some of whom favoured doing so, while some opposed. Through out the whole convention this question was to the front and was pretty well threshed out. The conclusion ar­ rived at seemed to be that notes should not be given Third Book pu­ pils but were permissible even nec­ essary with the Entrance class es­ pecially when using the old History text book. The Convention then divided for federation considerations. The women continued their organiza- ation, elected their officers and paid in their dues. The men decided not to organize but to leave it optional with the individual to join the Pro­ vincial Federation or remain out. The evening session was held in the Assembly Hall of the Collegiate Institute and was presided over by the President. A varied program was enjoyed by those present but comparatively few of the teachers remained for it. Vocal and instru­ mental numbers were teontributed by Miss Adeline Gaiser, of Crediton, Miss Margaret Wilson, of Goderich, Miss Joan Connor, of Goderich and Mr, Bert Cutt, of Galt, all of whom were heartily encored. The President took for the subject of her addross “The Influence that a Teacher may exert.” Among the high points touched on were: I 1. Teachers should exact obed­ ience and politeness but yet show I the pupils that you are their friends. 2. Teachers should not be given to spoonfeeding blit allow pupils to do everything possible for them­ selves. 3, Some pupils lean to certain subjects. These should' be consid­ ered and allowed to follow their own inclinations. The address was replete with good thoughts. Mr. AV. J. Dunlop, B.A„ Director of Extension Work of Toronto Uni­ versity and a Huron “Old Boy” was introduced by Inspector Beacom. He spoke on the subject of “Co-opera­ tion of Teachers and Parents." He gave some timely advice to teachers to strive to improve their standing in order to qualify for something better. He outlined the plan of Summer Schools and Correspon­ dence Courses now offered to the teachers. Teachers may now obtain their Bachelor of Arts degree by attending five summer school ses­ sions. Last year 500 attended. During the eight years these courses have been given 169 teachers have obtained their degree, two of whom are now Public School Inspectors. He invited correspondence and promised to consider each inquirer’s case and advise accordingly. His closing remark was “Keep your head up and your mind open.”. Mr. J. E. Tom and Mrs. Tom were then called to the platform and pre­ sented with an address accompanied by a watch and chain to Mr. Tom and a bouquet of Chysanthemums to Mrs. Tomj The address read us fol­ lows: Mr. J. Elgin Tom, Goderich, Ont. Dear Mr. Tom,— We, the teachers of West Huron learned some weeks ago that you had severed your connection with us as inspector of our schools. Foi* many years, from 1886 to 192S, you have been a regular semi- yearly visitor to the 13 6 class-rooms in the inspectorate. Many, who, at the beginning of your term, were in charge of the schools are now scattered far and wide in other call­ ings or have passed to their reward while, those of us still remaining have moved along under your over­ sight from the beginners’ class, through all the grades, till here. we stand members of the teaching profession. You, no doubt, have witnessed great, changes during that long term, not only in the methods used, but for the betterment of the school buildings and equipment. You have ever had the best in­ terest of the schools at heart and have endeavoured to render every assistance possible to the teachers in charge. You 'have not only been ^active in educational lines, but have directed your energies along church activities. You have now reached the stage of life when retirement from the strenuous duties of former days should be enjoyed to the full. We tru^t that you will not remain in seclusion but that your long-endur­ ing interest in education and in the teachers will not diminish as the years come and go. We join in ex­ tending to you. a cordial invitation to the meetings of our association in the years to come, and, in evok­ ing God’s richest blessing upon you, upon Mrs. Tom, and upon the mem­ bers of your family, throughout time. We consider this an opportune time to express our best wishes while we are here in convention as­ sembled, and, as a link in the chain of your remembrance of those many years of faithful service, we ask you to accept of this gift and Mrs. Tom this as a slight token of the affec­ tion we bear you. Signed on behalf of the West Hu­ ron Teachers’ Association. Miss I. E. Sharman, G. S. Howard, Miss V. A. Watson. Mr. Tom responded thanking the teachers for their token of remem­ brance. Mr. J. P. Hume, B.A., principal of the Collegiate Institute spoke fit­ tingly of his associations with Mr. Tom and of the friendly relations existing between them as they la­ boured together in the interests of education. The singing of the National An­ them brought the entertainment to a close. Friday Forenoon Devotional exercises were taken by Miss Lottie Robinson. The min­ utes of the previous session were read and approved. Mr. S. Pickles took his second paper on Manual Training as a Co. relation.” Often, children considered “no good” -develop into noble characters when they find their proper voca­ tion. Teachers should make them­ selves familiar with all exercises such as weaving, cutting, mounting, etc., and should take every precau­ tion to avoid getting into a rut. Moulding plasticine and forming the outline of relief maps with it are in­ teresting and attractive exercises. Tooth picks may be used to trace the rivers on it. Geography may thus be made an interesting, subject. One hundred schools in Ontario have work benches. Wentworth cdunty is the leader in this line of work. Teachers around Hamilton take Saturday lectures on Manual Training and Domestic Science. Ex­ tra grants are due teachers taking this work and to School Boards who install the required equipment. School with this diversion from book-lore are pleasant places. Inspector Beacom, Messrs. Tom and Ross expressed their delight with the subject, A vote of thanks was tendered Mr. Pickles on motion of Inspector Beacom and Mr, Tom. Election of officers then followed resulting as follows; Hon. Pres., Mr. J. E. Tom; Pres,, A. J, Brintnell, Exeter; Vice-Pres., Miss A. Gaiser, Crediton; Sec’y-Treas Mr. G. S. Howard, Exeter; Council­ lors, Mr. G. Mawson, Exeter, Miss L. McCullough, Winohelsea, Miss I. Douglas, Hensail; Auditors, Messrs.. G. Mawson and F. Ross; Resolution Committee, Messrs. A. Pidgeon, W. Broken&hire, Misses A. Davis, L. Ro­ binson, G. M. Harvey and M. A. El­ lis; Delegates to Q.E.A., Mr. A. J. Brintnell and Grace Hamilton. The Resolution Committee sub­ mitted the following to be passed on by the convention. * Resolved that— . 1. The following be made life members of the Association, Mr. J. E. Tom, ex-I.P.S.; Mr. W. McKay, Miss J. S. Murray, Miss H. M. Kins­ man, Miss A. Burritt and Miss M. Robertson. 2. The opening day in September of all Public and Separate Schools be the same as that of High Schools and Collegiate Institutes. 3. The Department be asked to authorize supplementary books of exercises in Arithmetic and Gram­ mar. 4. The Department request the Conservatory of Music to discontin­ ue the practice of holding music ex­ aminations on the same days as the Entrance to High School examina­ tions. 5. The Entrance’ Board be com­ posed of Public School Inspectors and Public or Separate School teach­ ers. 6. The Department print transfer report cards suitable for children going from one school to another. Miss Grace Hamilton dealt with Fourth Book work. She would study certain selections in Literature and pass over the less important ones merely as a reading lesson. Tn tak­ ing (Memory work -her plan is to take the literature of a poem before hav­ ing the pupils commit, it to memory. In Composition she has the pupils write the essays, etc., with lead pen­ cils, then after marking the errors have the same work copied into t-he composition books with ink. Famil­ iar topics should be given such as Call-fairs, picnics, excursions. She has the pupils use the dictionary to look up the meaning and pronuncia­ tion of unfamiliar words. In spell­ ing the pupils keep a. list of their mis-spells in an exercise book and these are frequently reviewed. In giving homework special books should be used and these should be examined occasionally. Miss Grace Lockhart continued the subject dealing specially with Geography. In . this subject mem­ orizing facts should not be resorted to. Stress should be laid on climate for on it depends many other phased of the subject such as, plant and animal life, etc.> Pupils should be left to discover facts for themselves but ithe teacher should have a clear knowledge of the subject. The members of the Entrance Board Messrs. Tom and Howard and Miss Sharman discussed the answer papers of 1928 and pointed out wherein these could be improved. In Arithmetic Mr. Tom recommend­ ed the reading of the paper twice at least before attempting to solve the problems. Inspector Beacom dealt with 'cir­ culars and reports. Teachers should fill in each and every space with ink, and do it as neatly as possible. This sh'ould as­ sist the trustees to fill out their re­ ports Convert Your Attic Into An Attractive Extra Room at Low Cost With GYPROC Send for handsome, free book, “Walls That Reflect Good Judgment.” It gives valuable information on Gyproc and interior decoration For Sale By The Ross-Taylor Co., Ltd. - Exeter, Ont. Ac Spencer & Son - - - Hensail, Ont. All schools have to report to the Inspector monthly, all abentees be­ tween 8 and 14 except under the foL- lowing excuses. (a) If the children are receiving; instructions at home. (b) Certified sickness. (c) If the children, under 18 years have over two miles to go let school. (d) If there is not sufficient ae- comodat^n. Even those who pass the Entrance under 14 years of age must continue at school. The new edition of Teachers' Manuals must be purchased by the School Board and placed in the Li­ brary. Teachers should become fa­ miliar with their contents. Regis­ ters must be marked daily and the marking should show half-day at­ tendance, lateness, etc. It is strict­ ly against the school law for agents to canvas teachers or otherwise in­ terfere with the work while the school is in session. Anyone violat­ ing this law .should be reported A circular sent out to inspectors was explained. It suggests allotting a space during each day for current events and to the following topics: Monday — morals; Tuesday — man­ ners; Wednesday—Safety; Thursday —patroitism; Friday—Respect o£ property and thrift. Friday Afternoon The minutes were read and ap­ proved. The Roll Call showed that every teacher but one was present a total of 141 from Public and Sep­ arate school besides six visitors. Mr. Fred Ross took up Fifth class work and outlined the two year course. 1-Ie pointed out the neces­ sary amount of equipment required and the number of candidates for each particular grade. The subjects are listed as obliga­ tory and optional. He ably discuss­ ed his method of managing his class and then answered any questions submitted by those taking that work: Professor H. R. Kingston, of Uni­ versity of Western Ontario conveyed to the teachers the best wishes of I Western University then presented the merits of the Summer School lately established in London. He admonished the teachers to think of the future and to avail them­ selves of the opportunities of im­ proving their standing. At Western 9 8 were in last year’s summer class. The course is specially arranged for teachers. Two methods are open to the students, attendance at the Sum­ mer School and the Correspondence, coures^ The system of credits, etc., was fully explained. The obtaining of a degree qualifies the Student for a High School Teacher. The fee is $10.00 per credit or a maximum of $40.00. Students may write off the- examinations at home by paying for the presiding officer. Friday after­ noons are devoted to athletics, etc. He intimated that an Art Course may be added to next-year’s course. Professor Kingston and Dr. Dun­ lop received a royal welcome from West Huron Teachers. The auditors’ report showed a- balance of $214.66. Inspector Beacom answered, th® questions deposited by those wishing information. A vote of thanks was tendered to the Public School Board and the High School Board for the use of the buildings for the convention, the committee who provided foi’ the ev­ ening entertainment, the citizens oi Goderich who opened their homes la­ the teachers during the convention, the retiring officers for their ser­ vices during the year and all who contributed items on the program for the day sessions and for the ev­ ening entertainment. Mr. J. E. Tom announced that he intends to work out a plan by which, he will establish one or more schol­ arships for Entrance pupils of the inspectorate Miss I. E. Sharman G. S. Howard President Sec’y-Treas.