Imagine that you are a policy maker at the USDA.  You have worked in this field for your entire career, and have seen many changes over the years in the area of animal rights. You helped to write and brainstorm the most recent edition of the AWA (1996).  You must do research using the links provided below and write a position paper from a USDA Member’s point of view, answering the question, “Should animal research continue in the Unites States?”  This will be in preparation for the whole-class debate about animal research.  See Your Task page for specific information about the assignments.

Guiding Questions:

1. 1.How do you believe animals should be treated?
   

2. 2.According to the USDA, how many animals are being used for research?
   

3. 3.Does the AWA protect animal rights well enough?  Should changes take place?  Additional rules be created?
   

Research Links:

The AWA: http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=5140&page=1 (*focus on Intro (1-8) and any interesting points)

AWA Summary of coverage: http://www.idausa.org/facts/awafacts.html

2011 USDA Animal Use Report: http://altweb.jhsph.edu/news/current/usdareport.html (*See PDF)

USDA Inspects Princeton animal testing facilities: http://www.dailyprincetonian.com/2012/01/16/29786/

(c) USDA.gov