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write on slates simple words ; and that some pence tables should be introduced into the arithmetic of Standard 11. In Standard 111. I think it would he well to abolish history, and to make geography a class subject. In grammar I should like to see very simple analysis introduced. In arithmetic division and multiplication of money by factors should be special features.. The work in Standards IV., V., and VI. might be spread over four years, with some alterations and additions. In grammar, in Standard IV., simple analysis should be required, and knowledge of government by a transitive verb and by a preposition; and the arithmetic might be somewhat lessened, say, by the striking out of compound practice and paper-work in lineal measure and square measure, excepting inches, feet, yards, links, and chains. No sums should be given involving perches, furlongs, and roods. In Standard V. arithmetic, interest, and proportion might be omitted; while first principles and vulgar and decimal fractions should be required. If interest is required, finding of time, rate, and principal should not be included, and the rule should be taught by first principles. Geography, perhaps, in this standard (Standard V.) might be made a class subject, that is, supposing there to be a Standard VII. In both Standards IV. and V., arithmetic, I think very simple mensuration of surfaces (length and breadth being given in the same, and in only one, denomination in Standard IV.) should be required. I think it should be insisted that two reading books be used in every class, except, perhaps, Standard 1., during the year. In Standard VII. some literature should have a place. In assigning marks for reading, knowledge of subject-matter should undoubtedly be taken into consideration. The present history of Standard 111. should be taken in Standard IV. With a view to having somewhat similar examination tests applied throughout the colony, I am of opinion that there should be a Chief Inspector, whose duty it would be to pay periodical visits to the various districts, and to consult with and advise the other Inspectors. Before closing this report I should like to say, with reference to the examination schedules, that it would be well to have upon them a column showing the attendances of every pupil since the last examination. The attendances of those pupils counted excepted if they failed to pass their standards could be marked in red ink. Also the possible attendances should be counted up to, say, a week before the examination, not, as at present, up to the last day of the quarter preceding that quarter in which the examination is held. Under the present system, when the examination takes place at the end of a quarter, the attendances of a pupil during the whole quarter in which probably he has attended most regularly are not counted. I have been for some time, and am now, engaged daily with examinations in standards, so that I have with difficulty found time to write anything in a connected form in reply to your circular. I have only to add that I have given you my opinions without reserve. I have, &c, James G. Wilson, Esq., M.H.E., W. H. Veeekee-Bindon, M.A., Chairman, Education Committee. Inspector of Schools.

Mr. A. D. Eiley to the Chaibman, Education Committee. Sic, — School of Design, Wellington, 12th December, 1887. In accordance with your request I have prepared the following report upon the work of the Art Department, as suggested by me in evidence given before the Education Committee of the House: — 1. Object of the Act Depaetment :— (a.) To establish a thorough system of drawing for the primary and secondary schools of the colony : (b.) To supervise the training of teachers in such schools in drawing: (c.) To formulate a proper standard of examination in drawing: (d.) To establish schools of art and technical-drawing classes : (c.) That the system to be formulated shall provide for a gradual development and connection from the primary to and through the technical and secondary schools. 2. Depabtmental :— (a.) The department of art to be a separate and distinct department from the present educational one, in order that fees may be charged for instruction in art and technical classes. (b.) Salaries of officers of the department not to exceed the sum of £800 per annum. (.Note.—lf the clerical work is done by the Government clerks this amount would be less.) (c.) The head of the department shall be responsible to the Minister of Education for the organization, development, and results of the department. (d.) The Inspector-General of Schools and the headmasters of the Dunedin, Christchurch, Auckland, and Wellington Schools of Art to be constituted a body for consultation, if necessary. 3. Pbimaey Schools :— (a.) Eevision of the standard-work in drawing in primary and secondary schools. The Education Department to be relieved of the control of the revision of this work of the standards in drawing, but subject to a reasonable amount of time being set apart for drawing. The proposed scheme not otherwise to interfere with the teaching of other subjects. (b.) The primary-school work to consist of first-grade drawing in accordance with the requirements of the South Kensington Art Directory. Subjects of instruction as

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