Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

1. Do humans have a responsibility to care for animals? What are some fundamental rights that all animals should have?

Teaching Suggestion: Ivan leads a dull existence in a cage at the Big Top Mall. Ivan’s caretaker, Mack, often cuts corners in his care for the animals at the mall because of his financial and emotional hardships. When Ivan promises to protect Ruby, a baby elephant recently added to Mack’s animal collection, he feels obligated to help Ruby find a better home. Consider asking students to analyze the treatment of animals in cages, in the wild, and in zoos to reflect on the rights and needs of animals and the responsibility humans have toward the care of animals. Students may find it beneficial to record thoughts and reflect on or add to their analysis of The Relationship Between Humans and Animals as the novel progresses.

• This article from Britannica explores the complications of animal rights and treatment.
• This article from National Geographic explores the evolution of the treatment of animals in zoos.