CBC Archives

While the seal hunt has been a long-time tradition in Atlantic Canada, it has come under the scrutiny of many people, groups, organizations, and governments. The Canadian government claims that the commercial seal hunt is humane and well regulated, but animal welfare investigators and journalists documenting the seal hunt often submit evidence of probable violations of various regulations. Some fishers and politicians claim that culling more harp seals will help the recovery of the Atlantic cod stocks. Both the debate and the seal hunt continue.

Students will create a brochure designed to either promote or halt the seal hunt. Students will begin by responding to the following questions, which recur frequently in the debate:

1. How are the seals harvested?
2. What is the purpose of the seal hunt?
3. What regulations affect the seal hunt?
4. Who is responsible for the hunt?
5. Who profits from the seal hunt?

Students will then create a word web, outlining the key ideas and concepts in the position they are taking. Encourage students to be as creative and persuasive as possible in the creation of their brochure.

Have groups present their brochures and display them on a bulletin board for other students to review. Students should be prepared to ask and answer questions and give their personal opinions on the dispute, using supporting details from their research.