Teachers can approach the case in a number of ways. They can use it as a
springboard for general discussion or as a reading comprehension or writing
exercise. If they choose the latter, they can ask students to write letters
from particular perspectives, such as:
- You are the doctor. Write a short letter to John explaining why it is
important for him to donate his kidney. "
- You are John. Write a short letter to the doctor explaining why you
r refuse to donate your kidney.
(My experience suggests that the second answer will be shorter than the
first one.) Whatever the chosen activity, teachers must play devil's advocate
to cover all aspects of the problem and encourage debate. Good points
should be congratulated, weaker ones challenged.