Y EAR 9 R.E
Term 3
Week 21

T ERM 3: O VERVIEW
Unit: People of Peace and Justice (with a focus on
Human Rights)

A SSESSMENT
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Mini movie – human rights (mid term)
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Response to Stimulus exam (end of term)

W HY STUDY THIS TOPIC ?
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View YouTube video (Miniature Earth) to gain a perspective on why we need people of peace and justice in this world. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4639vev1Rw& feature=related

I NTRODUCTION : G ETTING STARTED
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Define the following words:
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PEACE
JUSTICE
RIGHTS
Peace: a state of mutual harmony between people or groups, especially in personal relations.
Justice: the quality of being just and fair.

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View video – Universal Declaration of Human
Rights background http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_e mbedded&v=x9_IvXFEyJo#!
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Complete activity sheet on page 1 of booklet.

W HAT ARE HUMAN RIGHTS ?
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Basic idea: recognising the need to protect and affirm every person’s individual dignity regardless of age, culture, religion or income.
We can think of human rights as a special ‘claim’ on others. E.g. Right to education means that everyone is entitled to a good education and that governments have an obligation to provide the necessary facilities and services.
There are also human rights that people around the world have agreed upon – the Universal Declaration
of Human Rights. E.g. The right to life, freedom from torture, free speech, etc.
Rights and values are closely connected – origins lie in world religions and philosophies which have the same fundamental ideas of justice and human dignity.

W HAT ARE HUMAN RIGHTS ?
( CONTINUED )
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Rights also relate to what is lawful – in other words, they are laid down in law.
However, there are many situations where rights exist but are not covered in law – often called moral rights.
Human rights cover all aspects of human activity and are UNIVERSAL, meaning they apply to everyone regardless of status, race, gender, nationality or other distinction.
Involve responsibility and duties toward other people.
An important part of how people interact with others at all levels in society.

ACTIVITY
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List some examples of human rights in today’s society.
In what ways have these rights been taken away from some groups and individuals throughout the world?
Complete worksheet on page 6 of booklet