26-6
The chain of causes
To help the group get a better idea of the chain or network of causes leading
to illness and death, an actual chain can be formed. Each time another cause is
mentioned, a new link is added to the chain.
Draw the chain on a blackboard or a large sheet of paper. Or cut out cardboard
links, and drawings of Luis and a grave. These can be hung on a wall or fixed for
use on a flannel-board.
The ‘chain of causes’ leading to Luis’s death from tetanus might begin
something like this:
Be sure to use the
symbol for the grave
or death that is
understood in your
area.
You can use 5 different colors of links 10 represent the 5 kinds of causes.
Students can help make cardboard or flannel links themselves.
Make cuts
so links
can fit
together.
Use 5
different
colors.
The group can form the ‘chain of causes’ as they play the game “But why. .,?”
or as a review afterward. Give each student a few links. Then, each time a new
cause is mentioned, everyone considers whether it is biological, physical, cultural,
economic, or political. Whoever has the right link for a particular cause, comes
forward and adds the link to the chain,