Leaders' Holiday Economics and Ethics

Ciara McNearly

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Leaders' Holiday Economics and Ethics

Analyze holiday economics and ethics

This lesson explores the commercial aspects of holidays and their ethical implications across different cultures. Students will engage in research and debate activities to develop their analytical and ethical reasoning skills. This lesson is important as it encourages critical thinking about cultural practices and the impact of commercialization, fostering a deeper understanding of global perspectives.

Audience

Leaders (Ages 13-18)

Time

2 hours

Approach

Analyze holiday economics and ethics

Materials

Discussion Questions, Research Worksheet, Debate Guidelines, and Pens and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

15 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what holidays mean to different cultures.
Ask students to share their favorite holidays and why they are important to them.
Introduce the concept of commercialization of holidays and its potential ethical implications.

Step 2

Research Activity

30 mins

Divide students into small groups.
Assign each group a holiday to research, focusing on its cultural significance and commercial aspects.
Provide the Research Worksheet for guidance.
Encourage students to use online resources and library materials.

Step 3

Group Presentations

30 mins

Have each group present their findings to the class.
Encourage students to highlight both the positive and negative aspects of commercialization.
Allow time for questions and discussion after each presentation.

Step 4

Debate Preparation

15 mins

Explain the debate format and guidelines.
Assign roles for the debate: some students will argue for the commercialization of holidays, while others will argue against it.
Allow time for students to prepare their arguments using their research.

Step 5

Debate

20 mins

Conduct the debate, ensuring each side has equal time to present their arguments.
Encourage respectful listening and rebuttals.
Facilitate a class discussion on the key points raised during the debate.

Step 6

Closure

10 mins

Summarize the main points discussed during the lesson.
Ask students to reflect on what they learned about the economic and ethical aspects of holidays.
Encourage students to think about how they can apply this understanding to their own cultural practices.

Discussion

Discussion Questions

Questions to guide the initial discussion on holidays and their significance.

What are some of your favorite holidays and why?

Encourage students to think about personal and cultural significance.

How do you think commercialization affects the way we celebrate holidays?

Discuss both positive and negative impacts.

Can you think of any ethical issues related to holiday commercialization?

Consider cultural appropriation, consumerism, and environmental impact.

Worksheet

Research Worksheet

A worksheet to guide students in researching the cultural and commercial aspects of assigned holidays.

What is the cultural significance of your assigned holiday?

How is this holiday commercialized in different parts of the world?

What are some positive effects of commercialization on this holiday?

What are some negative effects of commercialization on this holiday?

Reading

Debate Guidelines

Guidelines to help students prepare and conduct a structured debate on holiday commercialization.

Each team will have 5 minutes to present their arguments.
After initial presentations, each team will have 3 minutes for rebuttals.
Focus on respectful listening and constructive criticism.
Use evidence from research to support your arguments.
Be prepared to answer questions from the opposing team and the audience.