Pig Dissection?!

Pig Dissection?

I think this year in science we have to dissect a pig. In 8th grade we did a frog, but I wasn't a vegetarian then and wasn't as much into animal rights. Now, I am totally against it.

I really don't want to dissect it...so do I have my parents write a note saying how I am a vegetarian? Or do I ask if I can't do it? What should I do?...I don't want to fail a major grade...

I would explain to the teacher about your ethics. You may not want to jump to the note from mom right away. I have found most teachers are respectful of ethical concerns.

You can suggest that you do a virtual dissection(if you can find one). Make sure you can find one and that your computer can see the pictures. http://www.whitman.edu/biology/vpd/main.... When I was in high school I refused to dissect the frog, and watching someone else do it was not acceptable. I found a virtual frog dissection site and went to the teacher, voiced my concerns and asked if I could(on my own at home-since the school comps were not good enough) use the computer. I gave the teacher the website so she could check it out.

If your teacher refuses to allow you to do an alternative assignment(be prepared for a essay/report-and you cannot complain if it is hard) you can make an appointment with the vice-principal and discuss this with him/her, and if he/she will not allow you to do an alternative assignment than make an appointment with the principal.

Make sure you allow yourself time to talk with the teacher and possibly the principal. When I had a problem in h.s it took two week to see the principal.

Tips on avoiding animal dissection
http://www.petakids.com/disindex.html...