Character Education: Fairness (Grade 8)
Focus Question: What role does fairness play in relationships and life success? How can developing fairness equip people as world citizens who contribute to the common good?
Photo Credit: Justice, 50 Fleet Street, London by mira66 is licensed under CC BY 2.0
In this unit, leaners define the meaning of fairness and compare and contrast it with the meaning of justice and equitable treatment. We explore the fair use of copyrighted music. They explore how downloading music and movies affects the artists and producers who created the pieces, as well as the common good. Learners read about and discuss Fair Trade and how it relates to justice, fairness, and equity. They reflect on their attitude about and responsibility for making fair choices about spending. They use the literary device of metaphor to express their thoughts.
Learners compare the meaning of justice with fairness and distinguish the meanings of fair, just, equal, and equitable. They write a definition for each term and display it on the wall for the duration of the unit.
Learners discuss the fair use of copyrighted music. They explore how downloading music and movies affects the artists and producers who created the pieces. Learners write a statement of fair use.
Learners meet in a "round" to discuss issues of fairness and the common good. They explore how downloading music for free affects the common good. They brainstorm other issues of fairness that affect the common good.
Learners read about and discuss Fair Trade and how it relates to justice, fairness, and equity.
Learners reflect on their attitude about and responsibility for making fair choices about spending. They use the literary device of metaphor to express their thoughts.