Nadia and Eun-Kyung are preparing for the annual school science fair...

By Frederick Douglass•Character Development•2 min read•Grade 8.6
Classroom
Intermediate

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 6-8
Reading Level
Level 8.6
Word Count
337 words
Published
Jan 1, 2024

The Dilemma

Nadia and Eun-Kyung are preparing for the annual school science fair. They decide to work together on a project about renewable energy, which excites them both. However, as they dive deeper into the project, they encounter unexpected technical challenges that they struggle to solve. Nadia feels overwhelmed and considers giving up, thinking they might not finish in time. Eun-Kyung suggests they ask their science teacher for guidance, but Nadia worries that asking for help might make them seem incapable. She also fears they might not learn as much if they rely on someone else. Despite her concerns, Eun-Kyung believes that seeking help could lead to a better understanding and a successful project. Nadia Every option has its cost.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Perseverance
vs
Fairness

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

Your Options

A

Struggle without asking for help.

B

Seek advice from the teacher.

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 asking for help be difficult sometimes?

  3. 3

    How can seeking help be a sign of strength?

  4. 4

    How might Frederick Douglass advise Nadia 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

resilience
problem-solving
perseverance
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

Nadia and Eun-Kyung are preparing for the annual school science fair... — 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

Nadia and Eun-Kyung are preparing for the annual school science fair... — 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