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In 1847 I gave an address at Newton, Mass., before a…

“In 1847 I gave an address at Newton, Mass., before a Teachers' Institute conducted by Horace Mann. My subject was grasshoppers. I passed around a large jar of these insects, and made every teacher take one and hold it while I was speaking. If any one dropped the insect, I stopped till he picked it…” quote by Louis Agassiz
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“In 1847 I gave an address at Newton, Mass., before a Teachers' Institute conducted by Horace Mann. My subject was grasshoppers. I passed around a large jar of these insects, and made every teacher take one and hold it while I was speaking. If any one dropped the insect, I stopped till he picked it up. This was at that time a great innovation, and excited much laughter and derision. There can be no true progress in the teaching of natural science until such methods become general.”

Louis Agassiz

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Hands‑on learning with live insects taught teachers the value of direct observation in science education.

In simple terms: Practical demos help teachers teach science better.

Key Takeaway

Use tangible examples to engage learners.

Themes

education science methodology

Mood

inspirational practical

Type

educational pedagogical

When to use this quote

  • classroom
  • biology
  • teacher training

Key Concepts

experiential learning pedagogy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you incorporate hands‑on activities today?
  • What obstacles might you face?
A Different Perspective

Resources for live specimens can be scarce.

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