Fairness...thumbs up or thumbs down

Materials: 1. Whiteboard or chart paper to record student responses

2. Dry erase markers or markers

Introduction:

The character trait we are going to learn about this month is Fairness. Discuss the trait and why it is important. Create a list of how we can show fairness.

Directions:

Sit in a circle to best facilitate this discussion (teacher should be part of the circle as well)

Ask students “what is Fairness?” (to treat every person with respect; giving every person equal opportunities; celebrating the uniqueness of everyone; etc.)

Ask students, “Why is fairness important?” (to make sure that everyone has a chance to succeed; to make the world a safe place for everyone; etc.) Chart their answers on the whiteboard.

Thumbs Up Thumbs Down:

Ask students to give a thumbs up or thumbs down to each of the scenarios. Feel free to discuss their thoughts after each situation. You may not get to all of them.

Is it fair to give one student a B and another student an A?

Is it fair to ask one member of a family to do a chore and not another member of the family?

Is it fair to let boys and not girls play basketball on a team?

Is it fair to tell a bus passenger to give up his seat for a person with a cane?

Is it fair for a teacher to ignore a tardy when someone is late for class?

Is it fair for an employer to pay a woman more than a man for the same job?

Is it possible for unequal treatment to be fair?

Is it possible for equal treatment to be unfair?

Wrap Up:

Ask students, “What are ways that we can show fairness to other people?” Chart their answers on the whiteboard.

Ask students what do your class agreements/rules have to do with fairness.