Some of us remember the sets of arithmetic text books used through the years at primary schools in Victoria. This Grade VI textbook contains chapter topics such as Whole Numbers, Compound Rules (Money), Arithmetic of Daily Life, Vulgar Fractions, Decimal Fractions, Percentage and Length & Area.

The text books were compiled by experienced teachers and “The arithmetic of daily life is introduced at every opportunity”. (Foreword). First published in 1941, the books were printed by the Government Printer Melbourne. Those in the History Monash Inc collection are thought to have been donated by the son of a former teacher at Clayton North Primary School. We also thank an Oakleigh resident who brought in a copy to show us in the light of the postal references and the 2024 History Monash Inc ‘It’s in the Post’ exhibition.