Vivisection

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/vivisection

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the etymological origin?Latin 'vivus' (alive) and 'sectio' (cutting)
2. What is the historical precedent?Practices documented in ancient Greece, notably by Herophilus
3. Why do scientists use vivisection?Scientists use vivisection to learn about blood flow, nerves, and how medicines work inside a living body. This knowledge helps doctors make new medicines and better surgeries.
4. How do scientists make sure animals are treated kindly during vivisection?Scientists follow rules that say they must use anesthesia, reduce pain, and only do experiments that are really needed. They also try to replace animals with other methods when possible.

In Vivo: Experiments conducted within a living organism, as opposed to in a test tube.
In Vitro: Experiments conducted outside a living organism, typically in a laboratory dish.
Sentience: The capacity to feel, perceive, or be conscious of subjective experiences like pain.