Give the boys special attention, without disclosing it to the other
pupils. Adopt a well-thought-out policy. Watch the effect of every move
you make. Have a great deal more “up your sleeve” than the boys find
out.
Plan at once a series of excursions into the country in connection with
the science courses, not as a reward, but as a part of the school
program.
Assign certain important, though not conspicuous tasks, to several
members of the group, including Charles and Henry. At first keep the two
boys together on a task; later separate them and give each a new
team-mate.
On successive trips, as occasion suggests, ask Charles to lay out the
route for the party or to secure a conveyance to bring home a sick girl
or to gather information and report on habits of squirrels in the
region.
Give private verbal expression to Charles of your appreciation of his
work: “The trips to the country seem to depend very largely on you for
their success. You are taking a leading part in the management of these
affairs. We appreciate your service very much.”
On suitable occasions give Charles practice in obedience on small
points. For example, all are sitting about the lunch spread on the
ground in the woods. A beautiful butterfly alights in your easy reach.
Extend your hand with eager expectancy and some subdued haste and say,
“Charles, hand me the net please.” The task is very slight; there is
very little chance of disobedience. Repetition of such lessons should be
secured as often as possible and on each occasion express your
satisfaction and thanks.
If stronger reactions from the boys are needed, assign special congenial
tasks for the good of the school: erection of basket ball poles, laying
of tennis courts, handling of properties connected with class play. Work
with them.
Avoid all reference to past misconduct. Never use school duties as
penalties; it begets dislike for them.