Vaccinations and their risks

3. Weighing up the pros and cons

Required Resources

• Slides 9-12
• Student Worksheet 1-2

Delivery

• Distribute copies of Student Worksheet 1 and ask pupils to consider what the key risks / limitations and benefits of vaccinations might be, writing these in the table provided. They should identify most of the areas outlined in the answers below.
• Student Worksheet 2 explores the issue of public opinion in relation to vaccination and highlights the challenges these present to any health authority attempting to eradicate a disease that can be vaccinated against. The Worksheet outlines four characters who are considering a vaccination, either for themselves or their children and asks them to make notes on the positive feelings they might be having about vaccination as well as the possible worries they may have. One of the characters includes an Army officer who is going to the war zone in the Gulf. There has been research into whether some of the vaccinations given to protect soldiers against illnesses such as anthrax and whooping cough, may cause Gulf War Syndrome (GWS). This can cause immune disorders amongst other illnesses.
• Answers to the Student Worksheets are downloaded in the Teacher Notes.

Differentiation

Lower Ability:

Some students may find it difficult to engage with this activity as it requires use of higher order skills such as speculation and deduction. You may need to prepare some prompt cards for them in advance.

Higher Ability:

Invite students to write an article on the new vaccine to be launched in the UK, notably the view of the 'public' versus that of the scientists, who claim that it will wipe out the common cold and save millions for the economy.