Lesson Plan: Trading Places (1983)
Subject
Business
Grade Level
10
Duration
30 Minutes
Objectives
- Understand the economic and social themes presented in Trading Places.
- Analyze the concept of wealth, privilege, and the role of environment in shaping individual behavior.
- Discuss the “Eddie Murphy Rule” and its implications on perceptions of race and wealth in society.
Materials Needed
- Projector for film clips
- Whiteboard and markers
- Handouts with discussion questions
- Access to Trading Places film clips (rated R; ensure appropriateness for students)
Lesson Outline
I. Introduction (5 Minutes)
- Start with a brief overview of the film Trading Places.
- Discuss the film’s release year (1983) and its relevance to economic themes, such as the stock market and social class.
- Present the day's objectives to students.
II. Key Themes in Trading Places (10 Minutes)
- Economic Inequality: Discuss how the film illustrates the disparity between the wealthy and the poor. Use excerpts from the film to highlight scenes that depict wealth and poverty.
- Nature vs. Nurture: Explore the idea that environment plays a critical role in shaping behavior and success. Introduce the concept through character analysis—focus on Louis Winthorpe III (Dan Aykroyd) and Billy Ray Valentine (Eddie Murphy).
- Social Class: Talk about the characters' initial positions in society and how they switch roles. Encourage students to consider what this says about privilege and opportunity.
III. The Eddie Murphy Rule (10 Minutes)
- Introduction to the Eddie Murphy Rule:
- Define the rule as a lens for understanding how societal perceptions can change based on race and image.
- Discussion:
- Ask students how Billy Ray Valentine’s (Murphy) character challenges stereotypes.
- Facilitate a classroom discussion on the importance of representation in media and its impact on real-world perceptions.
- Encourage students to think critically about how the rule might apply today. Use examples from current media or news stories.
IV. Group Activity (5 Minutes)
- Divide students into small groups.
- Assign each group a discussion question related to the themes covered in the lesson, such as:
- "How does Trading Places critique the notion of the American Dream?"
- "What lessons can we learn about financial literacy from the film?"
- "In what ways does the film remain relevant today?"
- Each group will discuss and prepare to share their thoughts.
V. Conclusion (5 Minutes)
- Bring the class back together and invite groups to share their insights.
- Conclude with a reflection on how the themes discussed in the film connect to real-world issues of economics and social justice.
- Encourage students to think about their own views on wealth, privilege, and the effects of environment on individual outcomes.
Assessment
- Participation in discussions and group activities.
- Optional: A reflection paper that explores one of the film's themes and its relevance to modern society.
Homework (Optional)
- Research and write a one-page paper on a current event related to economic inequality or privilege. Be prepared to share findings in the next lesson.
Note to Educators
Ensure that students understand the context of the film and address any concerns regarding its mature content prior to viewing. Adapt the lesson material based on students' grasp of the content, encouraging critical thinking and open dialogue.