Topical Talk

Assisted dying: personal influences and the news

What is the 'End of Life' Bill? This lesson explores the ethical debate of assisted dying.

Collage of pages from the “Assisted dying: personal influences and the news ” teaching resource showing the cover and lesson plan

Published 25 July 2025

About this lesson

Lawmakers in France and Britain have voted to legalise assisted dying. These bills, if they get through all the stages to become law, would allow terminally ill adults, with safeguards in place, to request and receive help to end their own life.

The issue has sparked strong debate, with many people firmly for or against the bill. It raises important questions about personal choice and medical ethics.

Use this lesson to help students:

  • Understand the End of Life legislation and what it involves
  • Discuss how facts, beliefs and personal stories influence our opinions on sensitive issues
  • Explore the challenges of making complex ethical decisions

Skills and knowledge

  • Speaking

    Step 2: Discussing together
    I communicate clearly in a small group
    Did you share ideas in your group?

    Step 6: Choosing language
    I choose appropriate language for the situation
    Did you use the key vocabulary for the lesson to help answer the questions?

    Step 8: Using facts
    I use facts and examples to support my communication
    Did you use facts to support your discussions?

  • Knowledge

    I know that assisted dying has been legalised in some countries and that the rules differ country to country.
    Which countries have voted to legalise assisted dying in 2025?

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