The foregoing has been written with special reference to beginners in reading. As pupils advance in their grades, the study of the reading becomes even more necessary and may be made the more profitable.
All that has been said of younger readers applies equally to older pupils. The test of the ability to study is the power to judge rightly where the limit of one’s knowledge appears.
As soon as the pupil can point out the obstacle which hinders his understanding, he is ready to be taught. A single word, a question, a suggestion from the teacher, removes his difficulty. He recognizes his need and desires help,—therefore listens attentively and intelligently.
At this stage he is enabled, also, to help himself, since he is prepared to use the dictionary and other reference books.
Older students should read with the help of the dictionary. They should, of course, be taught how to use it, just as they are taught to interpret any other book. Its use is discussed at length in another chapter.
And this our life …
Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks,