Student handout · Discussion & Debate
Pet classrooms in Korea: a discussion lesson on animals in schools, for middle schoolers who've already seen the hamster cage
Should Korean Schools Have Class Pets?
The Proposal: Some schools in Korea are testing a program to put small animals (rabbits, hamsters, fish, etc.) in classrooms. The government is deciding whether to make this standard in all schools.
Reasons FOR Class Pets
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Teaches responsibility | Students take turns feeding, cleaning, and caring for the animal. |
| Reduces stress | Watching or petting an animal can calm students during breaks. |
| Builds empathy | Caring for a living thing helps students think about others' needs. |
| Makes school more interesting | A class pet gives students something to look forward to. |
Reasons AGAINST Class Pets
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Some students are allergic to fur or feathers and cannot be near animals. |
| Cleanup and smell | Cages need cleaning. Classrooms may smell bad if not maintained. |
| Vacation problem | Who takes care of the pet during weekends, holidays, and summer break? |
| Distraction | Students may play with the animal instead of studying. |
| Animal welfare | A noisy classroom with 30 students may stress the animal. |
Your Task: Prepare to argue one side. Use specific reasons and examples.