Discussing different types of lies and rating them in their severity and damage to others helps the students understand about communicating honestly. They explore different ways communication can be changed through interpretation and by intentionally misleading. The students explore how people can be dishonest with themselves, and they reflect on how they can be honest with themselves about community and world issues and take personal responsibility.

Focus Questions:

What role does honesty play in relationships and life success?  How can developing honesty equip people as world citizens who contribute to the common good?

The learner will:

• discuss whether leaving out information is dishonest.
• rate the severity of different types of "lies."
• discuss and come to consensus on the most damaging "lies" and list damaging examples of "lies."
• define eschew and obfuscation.
• brainstorm and identify ways to be honest or dishonest in communication.
• discuss techniques for writing with clear communication.
• write a statement about a community issue in clear, honest language.
• review a peer's statement and give feedback.
• recognize statements that shift blame are examples of not being honest with oneself.
• write a plan for taking responsibility for something he or she wants to do but can't get started.
• read about "burying one's head in the sand."
• brainstorm issues that people may be hiding from in their community.
• write in his or her journal about taking personal action for an issue.

It is recommended that learners keep a journal to record their learning and reflections about the character traits studied.