This textbook was written in 1938 to acquaint beginning teachers with practices related to teaching in one-room schools and with the values and expectations of rural communities. The book points out the differences between the work of rural teachers and that of teachers in a town school. For example, teachers in one-room schools are required to adjust the educational program to accommodate several grades, present the subject matter in short periods, teach a large number of subjects in all grades, teach with few supplementary books, make final decisions in cases of discipline, and get along with a meager supply of materials for seat work. In addition, rural teachers receive very little guidance or support from the school superintendent. The book covers the following topics: (1) personal traits of the teacher; (2) teacher's preparation and certification; (3) professional activities; (4) activities involving the school board; (5) personal and social activities; (6) activities prescribed by legislative acts; (7) supervision of rural schools; (8) school districts; (9) school building and equipment; (10) course of study; (11) organizing the school for work; (12) program of recitations; (13) what children bring to school; (14) managing the classes; (15) teaching students how to study; (16) seat work and illustrative material; (17) children's health; (18) managing play; (19) governing the school; and (20) records and reports. Each chapter includes discussion questions and a list of supplementary readings. Appendices include lists of book publishing firms, books appropriate for a rural school library, businesses that sell school supplies, and magazines for schools. Includes an index. (LP)