Lesson Plan 5: The Universe of Obligation

*Inspired by Facing History and Ourselves Curriculum – http://www.facinghistory.org

Objectives for Student Learning:

Gain understanding of what is meant by the Universe of Obligation
Examine different levels of responsibility from the individual to groups to nations
Gain understanding of the difference between a right and a responsibility
Connect the personal stories and research on broader issues/events to the Universe of Obligation
Gain understanding of how to be personally engaged in furthering rights and responsibilities

Curriculum Standards (California):

History-Social Science Standards 10.9 and 11.9 Students analyze U.S. policy since World War II
Reading Standards1.0 and 2.0(Focus on Informational Material)

Skills:

Activities:

Review the reflections of Eleanor Roosevelt regarding the connection of each person’s actions to overall human rights
Review Helen Fein’s depiction of the Universe of Obligation (References provided on last page of Section V)
Use the personal stories and research work carried out in Lessons III and IV, as well as the review in the first two Activities to discuss such questions as:
- Who is in your Universe of Obligation/Responsibility?
- Who else is in your Universe?
  - Individuals?
  - Groups?
- What is the difference between a right and a responsibility?
- What are different ways we can each demonstrate our responsibilities to further rights within our Universe of Obligation?
- What are examples of more extensive work needed today to continue the work of the people we studied?
- What are examples of minute actions that can make a difference in this work?
  - How do these minute actions affect the greater Universe of Obligation?

Suggested Questions to Guide Deeper Reflection and Critical Thinking: