Overview
This lesson looks at end-of-life issues and examines the political and religious forces behind the decision to let a person live or die. Students will learn the key legal precedents behind such decisions. By studying the Terri Schiavo case and a similar case involving TV reporter Hugh Finn, students will understand the importance of a living will and the legal ramifications of this document. Through articles, video segments, written exercises, and group discussion, the lesson will put the end-of-life topic into perspective for the classroom.
Grade Level:
Grades 9-12
Time Allotment:
3 classes at 45 minutes per class
Subject Matter:
Religion, society, the legal system, state’s rights, medical ethics, the importance of a will, living will, political intervention, legal precedent
Learning Objectives
Students will:
- Understand the legal precedent behind allowing a person to live vs. letting the person die
- Identify important steps needed to avoid legal battles stemming from deciding a loved one’s fate
- Understand why the issue is so divisive
- Compare different cases where removing a feeding tube has created a political uproar
- Debate the various viewpoints surrounding the matter
Standards
This lesson was prepared by: Michael Flaherty
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