English 

Learning and Teaching

Authentic Writing @St John's

Late last year, the year 3/4 students read the novel ‘The One and Only Ivan’ by Katherine Applegate as part of the Literacy unit. They explored the treatment of animals especially during the use of animals in circuses. They explored both sides, exploring research and evidence. The students then wrote persuasive letters that aimed to convince the government to stop using animals in all circuses. They wrote to their Local Ministers for Agriculture, using persuasive language to share their point of view.

Sarah, mother of James, wanted to ensure that the Minister did in fact receive James' very emotional and persuasive letter. Please see the outcome and response below.

"Dear Mrs Webb and Mrs Hendy,

I am letting you know that the persuasive letter-writing task you had the class do last year had a pretty special outcome. I sent James’ original persuasive piece to the Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (the portfolio that covers animal and wildlife welfare) about his piece of using wild animals in circuses. It felt like a great opportunity to show him that anyone with a clear, compelling point can have an impact so it was important for him to send the piece to someone who could take action and make a change, he wanted to see.

Surprisingly, the Minister has written back to James, and the reference number at the top means his letter will now form part of the official paperwork used to review the National Animal Welfare Strategy, which feels pretty empowering for a piece of primary school writing.

Thank you for creating learning experiences that genuinely motivate our kids to use their voices. 

Sarah."

Dear Minister Julie Collins,

I am a student at one of your local schools and I am very concerned about how circuses keep wild animals. These amazing animals are being treated badly. Wild animals are kept in small spaces affecting calories burnt which leads to obesity which leads to death. Studies shows circus animals live shorter lives. 

Firstly animals in circuses in animal cages would be unnatural. The lack of sunlight makes all of the animals unwell plus non native animals would not be used to all the weather. A study in the UK says non domesticated animals are least suited to that hard life. 

Secondly animals kept in captivity often behave irregularly like pacing around their cage. Over 40 councils have banned the use of wild animals but there is no national ban yet. Circuses give exotic animals little to no stimulation. The animals do not get to do natural things like not hunting for their own food. 

Thirdly, these animals are in crisis. Circuses keep their animals in cages and the cages are not suited to their size and their needs for healthy living. Some cages have no room, no trees and no caves which means they do not get to do activities like they would in the wild. Cages are definitely not suited for their type of living animals. 

I demand these amazing creatures should not be in circuses. We must stop now or our later generation will look back in horror. I know you will agree with me.

Sincerely James H.

Year 4 student at St John's Primary School Mitcham

We are so proud of James and grateful to his Mum for sharing his letter. It is great to see Real Life learning in action at St John’s!