Definitions of Respect

6, 7, 8

The purpose of this lesson is for learners to create a vocabulary wall about respect. They will define words associated with respect and disrespect and write a sentence using a vocabulary word.

PrintOne 20-minute class period

The learner will:

  • define discrimination, diversity, exclusion, inclusion, minorities, pluralism, sensitivity, racism, stereotyping, tolerance, bias, prejudice and their relationship to respect.
  • write a sentence using one of the defined words to communicate how to treat people with respect.
  • state how treating people with respect benefits the common good.
  • dictionaries, Thesaurus, and/or internet access
  • 12 pieces of chart paper


  1. Anticipatory Set

    Ask the students how showing respect to diverse people and points of view promotes the common good. Discuss.

  2. Create a class vocabulary wall about respect. Arrange the class into 12 groups. Give each group a large piece of chart paper, a dictionary, and/or internet access. Assign each group one of the following words: discrimination, diversity, exclusion, inclusion, minorities, pluralism, sensitivity, racism, stereotyping, tolerance, bias, prejudice. The groups are to look up definitions for the their word and then rewrite the definition in their own words on the chart paper. Ask them to indicate if the word and definition represents an aspect of respect or disrespect (some words might apply to both respect and disrespect).

  3. Post the definitions around the room and allow time for the class members to read each definition.

  4. Each student chooses one of the words (not necessarily the one he or she defined) to use in a sentence. The written sentence should demonstrate understanding of the vocabulary and communicate how people can show respect for one another to promote the common good.

Cross Curriculum 


Philanthropy Framework

  1. Strand PHIL.I Definitions of Philanthropy
    1. Standard DP 01. Define Philanthropy
  2. Strand PHIL.II Philanthropy and Civil Society
    1. Standard PCS 01. Self, citizenship, and society