Lessons for Primary School

LESSONS FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL (6-10 YEAR-OLD)

Through human rights education you, your family and your community can attain the knowledge, skills and disposition to change things in a positive way. We call our approach Colega. Colega is your friend, your buddy, your companion in teaching and learning human rights. Because these materials, this site, our organization, and everything we have, are for you, teachers and learners. Colega is meant to assist you to develop the skills and attitudes that promote equality, dignity, plurality, tolerance and respect in your community, society and worldwide. The Convention on the Rights of the Child is the foundation and inspiration for Colega.

SUMMARY OF LESSONS:

Lesson 1: I Have Rights

Free and Equal – Right to Life, Freedom and Safety

1. Human rights are the needs that all children have in order to live in freedom and safety.
2. Children are instinctively aware of human rights.
3. There is a strong connection between human needs and human rights.

Lesson 2: I’ll Walk with You

Freedom from Discrimination

1. The difficulties faced by people who have disabilities and other difference
2. If someone is disabled, they have the right to special care and education to help them develop and lead a full life.
3. They will look for ways in which they can be of assistance to others.

Lesson 3: My Family, My Future

The Right to a Family

1. The family is the basic unit of society
2. We each have a right to live with our family
3. If our family is not a safe situation, we each have a right to help and protection
4. Family units make us stronger no matter what their make-up or configuration.

Lesson 4: My Choice, Your Choice

Freedom of Religion or Belief

1. There are stereotypes connected to men and women, as well as different religions, that are not correct.
2. A stereotype is a commonly held belief of a religion, group or individual that is mostly untrue and often harmful.
3. We are all different and have a right to our own beliefs as long as we let others have their own beliefs as, too.

Lesson 5: Words That Wound

Freedom of Expression

1. Everyone has a right to say what they think as long as they are respectful of other people.
2. We are not free to say things that will hurt or endanger other people.
3. Words can be used to make people feel good and to make them feel bad.
4. We need to be thoughtful and kind about the way we say things and the words we use.