Dissection in the Classroom

Most of us probably recall being asked to dissect frogs, turtles, pigs, cats, mice, and other animals in school. If we refused, it often meant a failing or lower grade in the class.

Today, many students are still under the same pressure to dissect animals. Even though our views on animals have changed for the better over the last 30 years, many school systems still advocate this archaic practice as a necessary element of a child's education.

Fortunately, concerned students, parents, and teachers are speaking out against dissection and asking for educational alternatives to this unnecessary killing and casual use of millions of animals. As a result, some states have already passed laws giving students the legal right to choose an alternative form of study. And students who choose high-tech alternatives, such as computer models, actually score better on tests than students who dissect animals.

If your school system or state still advocates dissection in the classroom, you can help eliminate it by doing a few simple things. Write a letter to the editor of your newspaper. Talk to teachers and principals about alternatives. Present your viewpoint at the next school board meeting. Encourage students to speak out against dissection and seek out alternatives. Ask your state representatives to propose legislation that would give students the right to choose alternative methods.

You can make a difference.

Provided by the American Humane Association