Lesson Plan: Business Ethics
Subject
Business
Grade
10
Duration
30 minutes
Objective
Students will understand the fundamental concepts of business ethics, the importance of ethical decision-making in the business environment, and the impact of unethical behavior.
Materials Needed
- Whiteboard and markers
- Handouts on business ethics definitions and case studies
- Projector (for the presentation)
Standards
This lesson plan adheres to the National Business Education Association (NBEA) standards for Ethical Decision Making and Social Responsibility.
Lesson Outline
Introduction to Business Ethics (5 minutes)
- Definition: Explain what business ethics means: the principles and standards that guide behavior in the business world.
- Importance: Discuss why ethical behavior is essential in business:
- Builds trust with customers and employees.
- Promotes a positive work environment.
- Prevents legal issues and scandals.
Key Concepts of Business Ethics (10 minutes)
- Integrity: The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.
- Transparency: The practice of being open and honest in communication and actions.
- Accountability: Taking responsibility for one's decisions and actions.
- Fairness: Ensuring justice and equality in business dealings.
Discussion of Ethical Dilemmas (10 minutes)
- Present a short case study where a company faces an ethical dilemma (e.g., a decision about sourcing materials from low-cost labor markets where working conditions are poor).
- Group Activity: Divide students into small groups and ask them to discuss the case study and come up with potential ethical responses.
- Regroup and share findings.
Conclusion & Takeaways (5 minutes)
- Summarize key points about business ethics.
- Highlight the importance of making ethical choices in everyday business decisions.
- Encourage students to integrate ethical considerations into their future business endeavors.
Homework Assignment
Tasks
-
Research Assignment: Write a one-page report on a company that was involved in an ethical scandal. Include:
- The nature of the scandal.
- The consequences for the company.
- The lessons learned regarding business ethics.
-
Reflection: Write a short paragraph on what you personally believe makes a business ethical.
Correct Answers for Discussion
-
For Task 1:
- Examples may include Enron, Volkswagen, or Wells Fargo. Students should explain the specific ethical violations, the impact on stakeholders, and what changes were made to restore trust.
-
For Task 2:
- Students' reflections may vary. They should discuss elements like honesty, transparency, and accountability as foundational to ethical business practices.
Assessment
- Participation in group activity and class discussion.
- Quality and depth of research in the homework assignment.
- Reflection clarity and understanding of personal ethics in business.
Additional Resources
- "Business Ethics: A Textbook" by William H. Shaw.
- Online articles from credible business ethics platforms.
With this lesson plan, students will gain a foundational understanding of business ethics and be equipped to recognize and navigate ethical dilemmas in their business careers.