We have received from Messrs. Macmillan Practical Arithmetic and Mensuration,
by Frank Castle (2s.) " An attempt has been made in this volume," writes the author in his preface, "to explain the ordinary processes of arithmetic in a practical manner in accordance with modern ideas as to the needs of pupils attend- ing evening continuation schools and technical classes." Mr. Castle, it may be said, plunges in medics res. On p. 6, for instance, we are introduced to algebraic expressions, and on p. 8 we are asked to " multiply + 6) (a + 6)," the use of the symbols and the brackets having been explained. It is manifest that an intelligent teacher with fairly good material to work upon will find in this method, which, of course, he is at liberty to vary at his discretion, a great saving of time. It is understood that the pupil is "continuing" his work, not learning for the first time. —From the same publishers we have Modern Arithmetic, with graphic and Practical Exercises, by H. Sydney Jones, Part II. (2e. 6d.) It begins with "Measurement of Lengths" and "The Use of the Chaip," and passes on to " Areas of Circles," " Prism and Cylinder," "Logarithms," " Compound Interest," and what may be called commercial arithmetic, as bills of exchange, &c.
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