Us vs. Them
In what ways can being part of a group become unhealthy? How do labels isolate and misrepresent us?
Photo Credit: Sebastian Middle School by GTM NERR is licensed under CC by 2.0
Sometimes people feel excluded by actual and implied barriers from others. Students discuss why fears and prejudices develop between groups and learn ways to overcome the barriers between groups by promoting discussion, raising awareness of others' POV, and taking action for the common good.
Learners will analyze the dynamics of group formation and membership and give examples of groups, in their own lives and in history, which have been denied rights. They will describe how inclusion and exclusion from groups causes conflicts, and determine ways of overcoming differences among groups.
Often conflicts arise between different groups in society and lead to conflict. This lesson will look at ways to resolve such issues and respect the rights of others to be heard.
Who are some of the people who have made contributions to and bridged gaps in social justice, diversity, tolerance, civil rights and equality? Learners will write about and discuss people who historically have made a difference in the lives of others.
Learners will describe problems of refugee populations around the world and human rights issues related to refugees. They will explain how the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child act to protect human rights. Understanding that refugees exist on all populated continents, learners will have a wider understanding of the basic human need for dignity that all refugees feel.