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(the linking up of words bearing intimate relation to each other), and are well versed in the Rules. It is very difficult to find anything of importance on which the Class, as a whole, could be unfavourably criticised.
Shorthand (Speed). He would be an unduly severe critic who could pass adverse comment on the shorthand writing in this Class. Though some of the tests were dictated at the rate of 80 words per minute the writing was of a high order of excellence throughout. The importance of phraseography has obviously been kept well to the fore, and the aptitude shown in the linking up of words augurs well for their successful development. One cannot speak quite so favourably of their work in transcription however. In no instance was a completely accurate transcript effected, and in some cases it was decidedly unsatisfactory. Students of non-English race labour at a very severe disadvantage when transcribing shorthand into longhand, but this disadvantage can be eliminated—at any rate partially—by steady and consistent practice at reading printed shorthand and their own notes. The ability to transcribe with facility and accuracy can only be acquired by persistent and dogged work at home on the part of the student.
Translation. The work done consisted chiefly of translation into English of news items from Chinese newspapers and commercial documents.
Vernacular Teachers' Classes.—"The examinations this year reveal very considerable progress in the ability and attainments of the students. Unfortunately a large proportion of them were badly grounded in some of the subjects before they entered the Classes, and in such subjects as Mathematics and Geography they were very weak.
The work of the year shows that the teachers of the Classes have been diligent and successful in their work.
In connection with the Vernacular Teachers' Classes, Criticism Lessons were given regularly during the Session, "Model Classes" having been established for the purpose. These Model Classes are attended by young boys and girls, who thus have an opportunity of obtaining free tuition.
English Teachers' Classes:
Women's Class.—English was good in the 2nd and 3rd Years, but in the 1st Year both English and Spelling were poor.
Men's Classes.—Very good work is being done in these Classes, with the result that a better type of Teacher is being turned out. This is apparent in the improved methods followed in the various schools in which these Teachers are employed. A certain number of Criticism Lessons is required of each 3rd Year student in the course of his last year of training. These are supervised by the Normal Master.
Teachers' Certificates.—At the June Examination, Teachers' Certificates were awarded to candidates who passed the 3rd Year