1. Notice when others use definite words where you should have used only vague, indefinite ones. Then make opportunities to use the new words yourself, being sure to use them correctly. After using a new word two or three times it will be your own and slip off your tongue easily and naturally.

2. When you cannot think of a word that says just what you want to say, look up the best word you can think of in dictionaries or in a book of synonyms. You will find under it several words of a similar meaning; and among them will probably be one that will serve your purpose better than the one you thought of.

3. When you are tempted to use slang, make yourself find good words to express your thought.

Topics For Compositions

1. Describe your favorite breed of chickens. Bring a picture to class if you can. You may have in mind the points that count in judging at a poultry show; or you may write to interest persons who are not in the poultry business, but want to keep a few chickens for pleasure and to supply the family table with eggs.

2. Describe some particular dog, cat, horse, cow, bird, or other animal that you have known well. Omit the particulars in which this animal is like all others of the class, and make very clear the respects in which it is different. Do not merely give a list of its qualities, but tell incidents that illustrate some of them. You might begin by telling of your introduction to each other. See who will have the best conclusion.

3. Compare one of these pairs of animals. Show which of the two you had rather own.

(a) A cat and a dog.

(b) A donkey and a pony.

(c) A rabbit and a squirrel.

(d) A bird and a gold fish. (e) A lamb and a pig. (f) Chickens and pigeons.

4. Compare two kinds of chickens.

5. You have a few extra chickens for sale. Write an advertisement for them.

6. Compare an electric and a gasoline car.

7. Make a comparison suggested by your study of geography or history; for example, compare in several particulars Argentina and the United States, or two historical characters.

8. Describe your favorite kind of dogs, horses, or cattle.

Holstein Cattle. A. J. Swanson.