8. Writing of Verse
The writing of verse has frequently been tried in the fourth year, and has generally proved an interesting and valuable exercise. The reading of poetry in the third and fourth years makes necessary some study of metre and verse forms, and with the information thus obtained as a basis, many pupils, it has been found, can write creditable verse. Exercises beginning with blank verse, octosyllabic and heroic couplets, and continuing with the quatrain, the triolet, the rondeau, the Spenserian stanza, and possibly the sonnet, can be given from time to time in place of weekly themes and will usually arouse considerable interest. Efforts to write verse, whether entirely successful or not, give the pupils a keener feeling for rhyme and rhythm, a better understanding of metrical forms, and of the nature of poetical composition; and to that extent should heighten their appreciation of poetry.
IX
OUTLINE OF HIGH SCHOOL COURSE IN ENGLISH
The following outline is designed to show in general the amount and character of each part of the English work to be considered in each year of the course. The order in which the details are arranged in each year is not intended to be the order in which these parts of the subject are to be taken up in the class room.