A Firm Foundation

HELEN POTTER FIELD

When we begin to study arithmetic, or the use of numbers, we have first of all to learn the rules governing the relations of the numbers to one another. As soon as we have mastered some of the rules, we can begin to use numbers in a simple way, as in the processes called addition, multiplication, and so on. But in order to apply our knowledge to bigger specific problems, we have to take a further step; we have to learn to think, or to reason, mathematically. With our knowledge of the rules of arithmetic we can, for instance, multiply five by two; but if we are given a problem, such as, If one apple costs five cents, what will be the cost of two? we must turn to reason to tell us which rule to use. Others may show us by precept and example how to make this application, but before he can make progress the apprehension of the rules involved must come to each one individually.

Through obedience to the rules of arithmetic, and by taking the orderly steps of progress, the student cultivates the ability to think mathematically, and is enabled to reach a point where the way of solving a problem appears to him as he considers the statement of the problem, and where he finds many rewards for his faithfulness and obedience.

In her loving provisions for teaching in the Christian Science Sunday School, contained in the Manual of The Mother Church, under the heading "Subject for Lessons" (Art. XX, Sect. 3), our Leader says, "The first lessons of the children should be the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3–17), the Lord's Prayer (Matt. 6:9–13), and its Spiritual Interpretation by Mary Baker Eddy, Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5:3–12)."

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