Here is a plan that solves the problem, if it is a problem, of putting extra work on the teacher through home credits. Not only is the teacher entirely relieved of the bookkeeping which the system requires, but the pupils are engaged in practical bookkeeping while they keep the records. Checks are made out in regular bank-check form, and receipts are given.
The Ruth and Grace System is thus described in a neat account written by Emma Ames, a pupil in the sixth grade:--
Ruth and Grace were girls who wanted to learn bookkeeping. In order to give them a chance we took up the credit system.
At the end of each week the girls give us a slip of paper ruled and ready to be made out. The mothers sign it. Each thing which we do counts so much. At the end of the week these slips are handed back to the girls, and we receive another. We also get a check telling how many credits we received the week before.
When we make five thousand credits we then receive a composition book. Smaller things are also given for fewer credits.
The girls keep in their ledgers each person's work. So if any mistake is made they will have something to refer to.
We call the system the Ruth and Grace System.
Washing dishes...................... 10 credits. Wiping dishes....................... 5 " Sweeping............................ 5 " Making beds......................... 5 " Baking bread........................ 15 " Dusting............................. 5 " Scrubbing........................... 25 " Practicing music.................... 10 " Brushing teeth...................... 5 " Clean finger nails.................. 5 " Splitting kindling.................. 10 " Splitting wood...................... 10 " Carrying water...................... 10 " Milking cow......................... 15 " Feeding pigs........................ 5 " Feeding chickens.................... 5 " Feeding and bedding cows............ 25 " Slashing one hour................... 25 " Getting a meal...................... 15 " Taking charge of house.............. 50 " Charge for father one day........... 50 " Building fires...................... 10 " Sewing.............................. 15 " Making an apron..................... 15 " Carrying wood....................... 10 " Washing............................. 25 " Ironing............................. 25 "