Objectives

1. Consider potential benefits and drawbacks of adopting a pet.

2. Assess the compatibility of pets and potential owners.

3. Describe how an illustration makes him/her feel about pet adoption.

Vocabulary

for Unit

Materials

Student Worksheets:

"Considering the Options"

"Making the Perfect Match"

Adopt A Pet Poster

Activities

1. Set the stage by leading a class discussion based on questions pertaining to pet adoption, animal shelters and the costs involved with owning a pet.

2. Place students in groups and distribute one copy of "Considering the Options" worksheet.

Activities (cont.)

4. Students continue in their assigned groups, distribute a copy of "Making the Perfect Match" worksheet. Students use their knowledge about pet adoption and the responsibilities of owning a pet to match the potential owners with the most appropriate pet for them.

5. Teacher will display a "Adopt A Pet" poster from a local animal shelter and students will write about how the poster's illustrations makes them feel about pet adoption.

Homework

Students will have one week to complete the assignment.  They will find a family member, neighbor or friend who has adopted or is in favor of pet adoption and complete a teacher-made questionnaire for an interview.

Assessment

Teacher observation

Rubric to assess how well students worked in groups and  how well they grasped the lesson taught

Extension

Invite an employee from a local animal shelter or rescue group to speak to your students about pet adoption and process involved in making "good" matches between pets and potential owners.