The Value of Generosity: Should Nia share her supplies with Xiaoli or keep them?

By AristotleRelationships & Social Skills2 min readGrade 8.5
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Imagine a class where one student has extra supplies and shares them with friends who forgot theirs. This act of generosity not only helps others but also makes the giver feel happy and valued, showing how giving can create a positive environment.

The Choice

Should Nia share her supplies with Xiaoli or keep them?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.5
Word Count
301 words
Published
Jun 7, 2025

The Dilemma

Nia and Xiaoli are preparing for their school's annual science fair. Nia, known for her creativity, has already completed her project, a fascinating model of a volcano that erupts with realistic lava. Xiaoli, on the other hand, is struggling with her project on renewable energy sources. She lacks some critical materials and is worried she won't finish in time. Seeing Xiaoli's distress, Nia considers offering her some of her own supplies, even though it means her project might not be as impressive. She knows Xiaoli has been working hard and could really benefit from the extra help. However, Nia also feels the pressure to excel and win the competition, which could be compromised if she shares her resources. Nia Now they have to decide.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Loyalty
vs
Fairness

Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.

Your Options

A

Share her supplies with Xiaoli.

B

Keep her supplies for herself.

Questions for Reflection

Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.

  1. 1

    What would you do, and why?

  2. 2

    How does sharing affect friendships?

  3. 3

    What are the benefits and drawbacks of generosity?

  4. 4

    How might Aristotle advise Nia in this situation?

  5. 5

    Can you recall a time in your own life when you faced a somewhat similar choice or feeling? What did you do?

Did you like this dilemma?

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Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Aristotle

Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.

Related Topics

generosity
friendship
competition
Marble bust of Aristotle, depicting a bearded man with a thoughtful and serious expression, representing the ancient Greek philosopher.

Aristotle384–322 BCE

Aristotle (384–322 BCE), a student of Plato and founder of the Lyceum, was a Greek philosopher whose vast contributions shaped logic (Organon), ethics (eudaimonia, virtue ethics in Nicomachean Ethics), politics (Politics), metaphysics (substance, four cause…

Peripatetic School
Lyceum
Ancient Greek Philosophy
Explore how Aristotle informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
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Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

The Value of Generosity — 5-10 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify the core ethical tension
  • -Make a quick, reasoned choice

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.Which option did you choose, and why?
  • 2.What would you give up with each choice?
participation
Standard15 min

The Value of Generosity — 15-20 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify competing values
  • -Articulate trade-offs

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.What would you lose by choosing each option?
  • 2.Is there a third path?
participation