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Mathematics.—Arithmetic.—This was undoubtedly the best mathematical subject, about 64 per cent. passing. The work on the whole was neat. In converting Vulgar Fractions to decimals the work was too lengthy, and in no single case of division of decimals was division by the standard form attempted. In modern methods of teaching decimals, this is of the first importance with reference to work in higher classes, and should be insisted upon. (The text book used in Queen's College is the best for the purpose.) A very simple arithmetical problem caused a loss of marks. This was accounted for by the fact that boys did not draw a figure to aid their mental calculations. Geometry was throughout the weak mathematical subject, only 30 per cent. of the candidates obtaining one-third of the total marks allotted. Very few boys indeed could define an angle or a parallelogram or a rhombus. The constructions were not clear in many cases, the lines and arcs used being often rubbed out. In the proof of the congruency of two triangles much carelessness was shewn. We should suggest that for a first year's course the standard is too high, and that a modern text book on elementary geometry be adopted in Class 6, as will be done next term at Queen's College. In Algebra about 42 per cent. of the candidates passed; and several papers were very well done. The majority however showed weakness in substituting given values in an expression, and many marks were lost by wrong solutions to the two simple equations. This happened through the fact that the boys in question did not verify their solutions, a most essential rule in equations and one not sufficiently enforced.
Manners and General Behaviour.—In the case of the boys from Wanchai these left little to be desired, while in the case of the boys from the other two schools there was a considerable amount of room for improvement. The boys often forget to say "please" and "thank you"; they slouch, and lack smartness. We could not help remarking that carelessness in speech and behaviour went, as a rule, with slovenliness in dress and personal appearance; and this slackness was especially noticeable in the case of boys who had recently dispensed with their queues.'
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28. The least satisfactory feature in the schools for the year under review is the very great number of changes that have taken place in the Staff. One Division actually had four different Masters within the twelve months. This has been due mainly to the accident of unusually quick promotion among the Chinese Staff; but it is none the less inconvenient.
29. The English Masters of the District Schools have always shewn themselves very keen to help their boys out of school. They have taken them on bathing and walking picnics, and upon the railway; and have shewn the greatest interest in their games.
30. Simple physical exercises have been introduced into all the schools. The gymnasium at Saiyingpun is well used.
31. A verandah has been added to Wanchai School. Plans for an enlargement of Yaumati have been approved, and the work will be put in hand shortly.
Lower Grade.
32. As recommended by the Education Committee (paragraph 10 above) three new Lower Grade English Schools for Chinese were