Clara and Zola have just moved to a new school...

By Frederick Douglass•Personal Values & Beliefs•2 min read•Grade 7.3
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 7.3
Word Count
313 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Clara and Zola have just moved to a new school. Clara, who loves reading and writing, finds herself in a class where sports are highly valued. Zola quickly adapts, joining the soccer team and making friends. Clara, however, feels out of place and struggles to find her niche. One day, Clara discovers a book club flyer and is excited to join. However, Zola warns her that the club is considered "uncool" by the popular kids. Clara is torn between joining the book club, which aligns with her interests, and trying to fit in by joining the soccer team, even though she's not passionate about it. Clara It's time to act.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Autonomy
vs
Fairness

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

Your Options

A

Join the book club.

B

Join the soccer team.

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

    Why might Clara feel torn between these choices?

  3. 3

    How can following your interests shape your identity?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Clara 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?

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Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Frederick Douglass

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

Related Topics

identity-personal
peer-pressure
authenticity
Portrait of Frederick Douglass, a distinguished African American man with a beard and intense gaze, embodying dignity and intellect.

Frederick Douglassc. 1818-1895

Born into slavery, Frederick Douglass (c. 1818-1895) became a prominent American abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. His powerful autobiographies and speeches exposed the horrors of slavery and advocated for emancipation and equal rights for all, i…

Abolitionism
American Philosophy
Civil Rights Advocacy
Explore how Frederick Douglass informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Frederick Douglass or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

Clara and Zola have just moved to a new school... — 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

Clara and Zola have just moved to a new school... — 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