Should we or shouldn't we?

Should we or shouldn't we?

Pencil and paperOnline interactive
Overview
Using this Resource
Connecting to the Curriculum
Marking Student Responses
Further Resources
This task is about critical thinking.
Sitting Panda.jpg
 
On planet Earth there are many plants and animals that are endangered (i.e., there is a chance they may become extinct).
Some countries have set up programmes to save these animals and plants.

Question 1Change answer

a)     Give two reasons for saving rare animals and plants.
1.
2.

Question 1Change answer

b)     Give one reason for not saving rare animals or plants.
Task administration: 
This task can be completed with pencil and paper or online. 
Copyright: 
Image of Panda: released into public domain, Jeff Kubina, Wikimedia.
Level:
3
Curriculum info: 
Science, Participating and contributing, Living World
Keywords: 
Life processes, endangered species, kaitiakitanga, conservation
Description of task: 
Students give reasons for and against saving endangered animals or plants.
Curriculum Links: 
Science capabilities
The capabilities focus is brought about by the conversations you have and the questions you ask.
 
Capability: Engage with science
This resource provides opportunities to discuss relationships between students’ ecological knowledge and their own and others’ values in caring for the environment.
 
Science capabilities: 
Engage with science
Making Better Sense: 
Generic
Answers/responses: 
  Y6 (11/1998)
a) Any 2 of:

  • So future generations can see them.
  • They may contain 'medicines' for us.
  • Preserve/keep balance of nature.
  • Any other reasonable answer.
 2 correct – very difficult

1 correct – moderate
b) Any 1 of:

  • Money better spent elsewhere, e.g., on human health.
  • Too much time and effort required.
  • Extinction is a natural process.
  • Costs a lot of money.
  • Any other reasonable answer.

[NOTE: do not accept "they could be dangerous".]

 very difficult