Lesson Plan - Do We Need Zoos?

Watch the Video
Watch the video “The Wild History of Zoos” as a class and discuss: Based on the video, how have zoos changed over time, and why? What is the current debate about zoos?

Preview Words to Know
Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Words to Know.

• enclosures
• habitats
• conservation
• captivity

Set a Purpose for Reading
As students read, have them think about whether they have ever visited a zoo and, if so, how it made them feel.

1. Why does the author mention the San Francisco Zoo at the beginning of the article?
The author mentions the San Francisco Zoo as an example of a zoo that some have criticized as unsafe and run down. The example helps show why there is a debate over zoos.
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2. According to the “yes” side of the debate, why might some animals no longer exist if it weren’t for zoos?
According to the “yes” side, some animals might no longer exist if it weren’t for zoos because programs at zoos have helped save some species, including the black-footed ferret and the California condor. Zoos also educate people about the dangers animals face in the wild.
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3. Summarize the main arguments made by people who are opposed to zoos.
People who are opposed to zoos argue that zoos are meant to entertain people, not help animals; that zoos do not give animals as much space as the animals’ natural habitats; and that life in zoos can be hard for animals because they may grow lonely, bored, and depressed.
^{(RI.3.2 Summarizing)}

FEATURED SKILL: Point of View
Use the skill builder “Is That a Fact?” to have your students review the difference between fact and opinion and distinguish facts from opinions related to the zoo debate.
^{(RI.3.6 Point of View)}