Lessons and Materials

Issues Facing Teachers

Librarians

» Additional Info For...

	Primary Educators
	Secondary Educators
	College Professors
	Librarians

Education Policy

	Agriculture
	Animals in the Classroom
	Changing Policies
	Chick Hatching
	Dissection
	Dissection Alternatives
	Field Trips
	Fundraisers
	Insect Collection
	Other Concerns
	Responding to Abuse
	Science Fairs

Home > Policy > 'Teaching Tips' Archives

'Teaching Tips' Archives

March 2003

Idea:
The Iditarod Trail Committee (ITC) continues to market the Iditarod as an educational tool. The Iditarod is a 1,150-mile sled-dog race over grueling terrain between Anchorage and Nome in Alaska. The race is said to commemorate the historic diphtheria serum run or "Great Mercy Race" of 1925, which was roughly half the distance and consisted of a 20-team relay.

However, the Iditarod actually commemorates the life of musher Leonhard Seppala, and it was originally run in two heats over a 25-mile course in 1967 and officially named the Iditarod Trail Seppala Memorial Race. Learn what you can do to help end the suffering of dogs in the Iditarod. For additional information, contact the Sled Dog Action Coalition.

Geography:
The terrain and weather conditions that the dogs face during the Iditarod, in addition to other factors, such as wildlife and unexpected accidents, all make for risky and dangerous situations that sled dogs are forced to endure. If your students want to follow a race, have them pick one that emphasizes human endurance and physical dexterity, such as the Tour de France, the America's Cup, or one of the many adventure races. Study the terrain of these races and the training required to prepare for them. Many races allow students to follow the progress of competitors. Map out the race route and follow teams as they compete.

Government:
"Overdriving" or "overworking" an animal is considered a violation of cruelty-to-animals laws in 38 states and the District of Columbia. These laws, however, do not apply in Alaska, where Iditarod mushers routinely force sled dogs to race for more than 1,000 miles in about a 14-day period.

Research your state's legislation on cruelty to animals. Does it take a stance on overdriving and overworking animals? Many sled dogs are also kept outdoors, tethered by short chains to their doghouses. This not only is cruel but also poses health risks for the dogs. What are the hazards that animals left outdoors face (especially in the freezing climate of Alaska)? Some counties have made it illegal to chain a dog or have put a limit on the number of hours a dog is allowed to be chained in a 24-hour period. To learn more, visit HelpingAnimals.com. As a class, discuss what you can do to help make stronger cruelty-to-animals laws in your state.

Idea of the Month:
The Iditakid

Be creative when teaching compassion. A Mission Hills, California, middle school created their own race called Iditakid featuring kids instead of dogs pulling mushers in their sleds. The hands-on activity included learning activities for geography, English, math, science, physical education, and music.

TeachKind
501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510
Info@teachkind.org 757-962-8247