The teacher will announce the topic for discussion, namely, how the history of Great Britain has been affected by her insular position.
T.—Trace on the map the coast line of Great Britain. (Pupil does so.) What do you notice about the coast line in comparison to the size of the Island?
P.—It is very irregular and has a good many bays and inlets.
T.—Would this have any effect on the life and occupations of the people?
P.—They would almost have to be sailors.
T.—In other words, a maritime people. Do you think that is usual? Look at the coast line of Japan. (Class sees that it is much the same as that of Britain: the Japanese are also a maritime race.) What is one occupation the people would follow?
P.—They would probably be fishermen. (The teacher may give some idea of the extent of the fishing. The same may be done with each new point, as it comes up.)
T.—What else would they do?
P.—They would probably engage in trade or commerce.
T.—With which countries? Study the map for a moment.