Understanding Justice and Selflessness in Civic Education SS 1 First Term Lesson Notes Week 3

Edu Delight Tutors

Subject: Civic Education

Term: First Term

Week: Week 3

Class: SSS 1

Previous Lesson: Revision on the previous lesson which covered our values

Topic: Meaning of Justice and Selflessness

Behavioral Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Define justice
2. Explain the meaning of selflessness
3. State the importance of social justice
4. Describe the need for selflessness
5. Give examples of Nigerian leaders who have shown discipline and selflessness in their service to the nation

Instructional Materials

• Wall charts
• Pictures
• Related online videos
• Flashcards

Teaching Methods

• Class Discussion
• Group Discussion
• Question and Answer
• Explanation
• Role Modeling
• Role Delegation

Reference Materials

• Scheme of Work
• Online Information
• Textbooks

Content

Meaning of Justice and Selflessness

Justice

“Justice delayed is justice denied” — this popular saying underlines the importance of timely and fair action.

What is Justice?
Justice means trying to correct wrongs done to any member of society. It is action based on legal requirements, often represented as fairness. Justice involves treating everyone equally, without bias or favoritism, according to the laws and regulations of the land. It is a foundational element in every stable society.

Philosophical Perspectives on Justice:

• Plato: A just person is someone whose soul is guided by a vision of the good.
• Aristotle: Justice means giving a person what they deserve. He explains that justice occurs when someone receives benefits based on their merit.

Types of Justice
There are four primary types of justice people seek when they are wronged:

1. Distributive Justice
   • Often called economic justice, it is about fairness in what people receive, from goods to attention.
   • Distributive justice focuses on equal distribution of resources, and it is a core principle in socialism.
   • Example: Ensuring all citizens have equal access to healthcare and education.
2. Procedural Justice
   • Refers to the fairness of processes used in decision-making. This ensures equal treatment of individuals, regardless of race or social status.
   • Example: If two people commit the same crime, they should receive similar penalties, regardless of their backgrounds.
3. Restorative Justice
   • This form of justice focuses on restitution and restoring relationships. It often involves the offender apologizing and making amends.
   • Example: A person who damages property may offer an apology and pay for repairs.
4. Retributive Justice
   • Based on punishment, retributive justice seeks to discourage future wrongdoings by penalizing offenders.
   • Example: Imposing jail sentences for criminal acts to deter similar future behaviors.

Importance of Justice

1. Truth: Justice upholds the truth, promoting transparency and fairness in society.
2. Peace: It fosters peace by preventing violence, conflicts, and quarrels.
3. Divine Command: Justice aligns with divine law and upholds moral standards.
4. Mutual Agreement: Justice arises from a mutual agreement in society, designed to benefit everyone.
5. Equality: It ensures equal treatment, eliminating hierarchical relationships and creating respect for each person’s contributions.

Selflessness

Selflessness is the quality of putting others’ needs and interests before one’s own. It means showing genuine concern for the welfare of others without expecting personal gain.

Definition of Selflessness
Selflessness means acting without personal interest or gain, driven solely by the desire to help others. It is about empathizing with others’ challenges and taking action to support them, even when it requires personal sacrifice.

Importance of Selfless Activities

1. Conquers Pride: Selfless individuals act out of a desire to help others, not for personal recognition.
2. Expands the Mind: By prioritizing others, selfless people gain joy from others’ achievements and develop a broader perspective.
3. Attractive Character: People are naturally drawn to selfless individuals who show kindness and compassion.
4. Promotes True Friendship: Real love and friendship are founded on selflessness, with individuals willing to put others’ needs first.

Notable Nigerians Who Displayed Selflessness

1. Chief Obafemi Awolowo
2. Sir Ahmadu Bello
3. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe
4. Wole Soyinka
5. Murtala Mohammed
6. Chief Gani Fawehinmi
7. Fela Anikulapo Kuti
8. Ken Saro-Wiwa
9. Tai Solarin
10. Dr. Stella Ameyo Adadevoh

These individuals are remembered for their contributions and sacrifices toward the well-being of others and the development of Nigeria.

Presentation Steps

1. Step 1: The teacher revises the previous topic on values with the class.
2. Step 2: The teacher introduces the new topic of justice and selflessness.
3. Step 3: The teacher encourages students to share their understanding of the topic, correcting misconceptions and adding additional explanations as needed.

Evaluation

1. Define justice.
2. Define selflessness.
3. List four types of justice.
4. Explain four reasons why justice is important.
5. List four reasons why selflessness is important.
6. Name four Nigerian leaders known for their selflessness.

Conclusion

The teacher provides a summary of the topic, reinforcing the definitions and importance of justice and selflessness. The teacher also completes any necessary marking and feedback.