Students are usually compassionate toward animals so the theme of Animal Rights would probably be very engaging for them. Topics could include animal care and welfare. Students could investigate animal rescue efforts, animal issues such as extinction and endangerment as well as animal cruelty. Students could learn of the different cultural perspectives on animals/pets and begin to see how animals considered in other cultures. They will also have the opportunity to reflect on their own beliefs about animals and evaluate them. Let us know how you incorporate this theme into your curriculum!
Leslie Grahn has provided us with some great resources on Animal Rights. Check them out here.