CBC Archives

Over the years, the Calgary Stampede’s main attraction, the chuckwagon races, has sometimes resulted in the death and injury of animals and people. Animal rights organizations continually put pressure on Stampede organizers and sponsors, trying to stop the rodeo in general and the chuckwagon races in particular. However, the rodeo and chuckwagon races represent a century of western tradition and hundreds of millions of dollars in city revenue. The debate continues.

Students will use presentation software to illustrate their position regarding the chuckwagon races at the Calgary Stampede. Students will investigate a range of opinions and facts to develop and present their own perspectives about the controversy.

Have pairs share their presentations with the class. In groups of four, preferably with two students defending each side of the issue, have students discuss the issues surrounding the controversy. Then challenge each group to find a compromise solution that will satisfy both positions in the debate. Groups can share their results with the larger group.