Describes an alternative method for using live animals in the classroom. A toy dog, the "Trail Tracker Hound Dog" (manufactured by CPG Products Corporation, Cincinnati, Ohio), is used to encourage development of such skills as observation, hypothesis testing, and collection and analysis of scientific data. (Author/JN)

Suggests that the classroom party is a successful tool for teaching students about animals. In addition to information on planning such a party, animal-related activities for each month of the school year as well as instructional strategies are offered. (JN)

Discusses factors to consider when deciding on the kind of pet to obtain and keep in the classroom, indicating that when the pet is responsibly chosen, cared for, and integrated into the classroom, it can provide many positive learning opportunities for children. Several of these opportunities are outlined. (JN)

Describes an approach in which junior high school students prepare a sound/slide presentation that focuses on some animal issue. The approach is designed to make them more aware of the problems encountered by animals and to help them develop their ability to process information and to work together. (JN)

Outlines activities of Animal Olympics Day held each spring by Staten Island Zoo. Events blend recreation and education into opportunities for children to "think and act like animals." A turtle obstacle course, human-sized nest building, and smelling to recognize items are examples of contests. Includes suggestions for starting similar…

Offers suggestions for using sow bugs in the classroom, including maintenance, source (found virtually everywhere in damp soil), background information, bibliography, and bulletin board idea. Includes instructions and materials (clue cards) for a fact-finding and hypothesis-testing game in which students determine what kind of an animal…

Stresses the importance of teaching children respect for and interest in spiders and insects. Recommends activities to study arthropods in their natural environment that will be exciting to students, sharpen observation skills, and promote respect and understanding. Lists potential excursion sites and preparatory procedures. (BC)

Presents a mini unit to help children critically evaluate opinions they hold about maligned animals. This involves: asking students to list animals they disfavor, having students monitor television programs that treat animals disrespectfully, and forming "public relations" teams to support and promote a disliked animal. (BC)

Provided are synopses of selected presentations and discussions that evaluated and provided an understanding of the role of empathy in human behavior toward animals. Factors hampering such empathy, origin of empathy and altruism, and childrens' attitudes toward and knowledge of animals were among the areas explored. (BC)