Module 3: RESPECT LIFE

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activity two - individually or in pairs

There is material on resource sheet 5 page 24 Giving and taking which may be used to start a discussion on how the old are treated. These are two examples from the Bushmen of southern Africa showing their attitude towards old people. The class could study these two pieces and express their conclusions in writing or drawing about how the Bushmen treat the old.

They could then compare how these people treated their elderly and how we do in our society Suggest they write down their conclusions and how these will affect the way they treat old people in the future.

activity three - small groups

Consider the question "What are grandparents for?" Let them express their ideas in writing or by drawing. This gives an opportunity for the groups to be creative in how they express their ideas.

conclusion

Consider with the class whether their views of old people have changed at all. If so, in what ways? What do they feel when they are lumped together as "young people"? What do they think older people feel when they are lumped together?

These activities could lead to a consideration of the question of euthanasia. The Universal Declaration on Human Rights says in Article 3: "Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person." How does euthanasia fit with this?

• Why do some old people want to end their lives?
• What can we do as individuals and as a society to change this?

A study of the development of hospices for the dying would illustrate what is being done to give terminally ill patients a sense of worth and dignity, as well as applying modern methods of pain control. It might be possible to visit a hospice or have someone who works in one to come and talk to the class.