 |

To be an active citizen, one must be informed, so educate your class about animal testing.
Familiarize yourself with some basic facts by reading the "Product Testing: Toxic & Tragic" factsheet. TeachKind can help you educate your students on this issue by sending you free videos, posters, and literature. For ordering information, click here.
If you are teaching younger students, it may be enough to tell them that animals die to test toothpaste, make-up, and soap. Older students might like to learn more specific information, such as the kinds of animal tests that are done, the alternatives that are available, and the reasons that animal testing continues despite the existence of cheaper, more reliable alternatives. Have them watch the video Inside Bioresearch or read the "Guide to Animals and Experimentation," which is available for free from TeachKind. Adjust the lesson for your students as you see fit.
Discussion Questions: What is your reaction to the information that you just read? Do you agree or disagree with testing products on animals? Why?
You will receive a wide range of answers and opinions. Make sure that students realize that they can disagree with each other and still be respectful toward one another. Ensure that all opinions are heard in a respectful manner.
Discussion Question: What can people do to help animals in laboratories?
Answers may include the following:
- Boycott businesses that test on animals.
- Contact companies that test on animals and ask them to stop.
- Organize protests against companies that test on animals.
- Contact government officials to ask them to ban product testing on animals.
Next, we will give students an opportunity to practice citizenship skills through hands-on activities.
|