Lesson: End of Life Issues – Euthanasia
After reviewing the begining of life debate and determining that life begins at conception we transitioned to discussing end of life issues that have been raised in society. We were introduced to this topic by reading the story of Sammy and the unfortunate events that affected his life. As a class, we debated Sammy’s living condition. There were many differing opinions on when we considered him to be alive and dead. As you read the story posted below you will understand the complexity of this decision. From Sammy, we explored how society treats end of life issues and discussed whether we should be allowed to determine when someone’s life ends or not, especially when someone is terminally ill.
Next, we marked the textbook questions, p. 197 #1-8 as a class and then started watching the film Million Dollar Baby which deals with the controversial issue of euthanasia. This film will carry over the next 2-3 classes. Please complete the reflection sheet after viewing the film.
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Lesson: Pro-Life vs. Pro-Choice Argument
This lesson carried over two classes since many students were away with the Kiwanis festival. We started this topic with a short quiz to see what everyone already knew regarding abortion policy and laws in Canada. Then, we explored life and development for the fetus in the womb. After informing ourselves we applied this knowledge to defeat the pro-choice/pro-abortion arguments and claims. In groups, then as a larger class, we defeated the arguments and provided a thorough and concrete pro-life response. Please refer to the handout below for details.
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Lesson: The Sanctity of Life
After debriefing Horton Hears a Who, we discussed the concept of Personhood and what it means to be a person. We examined the importance of respecting life at all stages – from conception to its natural end. God’s view of life contrasts sharply with society’s view. We explored how society portrays the human image and the manner in which music and advertisements in particular devalue life. Examples from pop culture were discussed. An assignment, the Ad/Song Analysis was explained and assigned in class. The remaining class time was spent in the library. You will have one more class period in the library/computer lab to work on your assignment. Class power point, notes, and assignment details can be found below.
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Due Dates:
- Day 1 Classes – April 13th
- Day 2 Classes – April 12th
Lesson: Reverence for Life Introduction and film
We started the Reverence for Life Unit by watching Horton Hears a Who. We spent about 2 classes watching and discussing the film. In viewing the film, you were responsible for addressing the following questions:
- What is the central theme of the film?
- What do the characters listed below symbolize?
– Morton the Mouse, Kangaroo, the Mayor, the Wickershim brothers, Vlad Vladicoff
3. How is Horton the elephant comparable to Jesus?
Lesson 1: Prayer Leadership for February to May 2012
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Lesson 2: What are the effects of sexual activity?
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Lesson 3: How does HIV and AIDS impact a person’s life?
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Lesson 4: What are the parts and functions of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems?
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Lesson 5: How do STIs and Contraceptives impact our physical health?
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Lesson: Social Sin
Class begun with a review of the Capital Sins and the Virtues which counter them. Then, we explored examples of social sin, the sin that exists in society. We discussed the philosophy of Utilitarianism and the flawed belief in the ”ends justify the means” as it relates to ethics. Examples of sinful social structures were also examined in our society as well as in North America. Scenes from Bowling for Columbine, a documentary on the gun violence in the USA, were shown to the class. Finally, questions about the review and midyear exam were also addressed.
No handouts were distributed.
Powerpoint: Social Sin
Lesson: The Heavenly Virtues
The Midyear Outline was distributed and the exam format, as well as the content was discussed in detail. Please see below for a copy.
We reviewed the capital vices and held a class discussion. Opinions were made on what is believed to be the most harmful sin to an individual person, the most destructive to society and the most common in the 21st century. Students then reflected on the disussion in written format.
Next, we discussed what virtues are needed to avoid the capital vices. This led into our lesson the heavenly virtues. Notes were take from power point and emphasis was made on the characteristics of virtuous living as a way to deal with immorality in society.
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Lesson: The Capital Vices (Seven Deadly Sins)
Today, we examined the gravest sins in society, the seven deadly sins. After a brief class discussion and brainstorm we took notes from power point exploring the origins and evolution of the terms.
Then, we applied our knowledge and understanding of the concepts by analyzing contemporary music and lyrics. Song lyrics were given and students needed to identify the capital vice that best related to the lyrics. Students then came up with their own selection of music which closely related to the capital vices. After this activity, it became very clear that the majority of music on the radios, tv, and on our smart devices relate to the vices and transgressions we ought to avoid in society.
Materials & Handouts
Lesson: Sin and Forgiveness
Welcome back everyone! After some review of the previous unit on Conscience we began our new unit on Sin and Reconciliation. A quick reminder to students that need to submit their Inform Your Conscience Group Project to please do so asap and make an appointment to present your project with me at either break, lunch or after school.
During the lesson, we discussed the concept of sin, its origins and various forms in society – social sin. we explored Christs message on forgiveness and its role in relation to sin. Both Pope John Paul II and Nelson Mandela were discussed as role models on the power of forgiveness and the compassion that should replace revenge and anger. We watched a few scenes from the film Invictus as an example of Nelson Mandela’s role in bridging a country and reconciling with past wrongdoings.
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Lesson: Moral Relativism, Skepticism, Empiricism, and Rationalism
Power point: Belief, Truth, Knowledge
Notes: Belief Truth Knowledge Notes
