Lesson Plan 1: Caring for Animals

How does this fit into the Framework? Children should learn that all animals have needs; that humans have a responsibility to ensure the well-being of animals; to recognise that they can make choices; to consider alternatives, make decisions and explain their choices.

Teachers' Note: Split the class into pairs or small groups and ask them to discuss the answers (below). Follow this with a whole-group discussion on each scenario. This could also be set as a written exercise.

Scenario 1 Herbie has endangered himself as well as not managing to rescue the cat. He should have thought things through more carefully and called the Fire Brigade to help get the cat out.

Scenario 2 Herbie did a very kind and sensible thing. There are, of course, other options, such as to take the rabbit home, to leave her there and tell an adult, or to go away and forget all about her.

Scenario 3 Because Herbie waited, he missed the chance to help the dog and now he feels guilty. He could have taken the dog home with him, called the police, the vet, a local sanctuary or the RSPCA.

Scenario 4 Herbie tried to help, but the farmer may not have come back for hours and the sheep may not even have been his. Herbie could have tried to call a vet (but they couldnt have helped unless Herbie was the owner) or he could have called the RSPCA Helpline and asked an inspector to come out straight away. (You can give that number to the class in case they ever need to report an incident of animal cruelty or neglect: 0870 55 55 999.)

Scenario 5 Herbie could have shouted or started an argument, but he was polite instead. Like the rest of the people there, he could have done nothing, but he decided that all animals deserved care and kindness. Herbie did a kind thing here.

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