Mary Wollstonecraft on Should Alex suggest changing the team selection process?

By Mary WollstonecraftCharacter Development2 min readGrade 6.7
Classroom
Intermediate

Overview

Alex noticed that during recess, some kids were always chosen last for teams in soccer. One day, his friend Mia asked, "Why don't we mix up the teams so everyone gets a fair chance?" Alex knows speaking up might upset some friends, but it could help others feel included.

The Choice

Should Alex suggest changing the team selection process?

Quick Stats

Grade Band
Grades 3-5
Reading Level
Level 6.664734583239213
Word Count
233 words
Published
Mar 23, 2026

The Dilemma

Alex noticed that during recess, some kids were always chosen last for teams in soccer. One day, his friend Mia asked, "Why don't we mix up the teams so everyone gets a fair chance?" Alex knows speaking up might upset some friends, but it could help others feel included.

Values in Tension

This dilemma explores the tension between two important values:

Courage
vs
Equality

Consider how these values might conflict or complement each other in this situation.

Your Options

A

Speak up about mixing up teams for fairness.

B

Stay quiet and let the current process continue.

Questions for Reflection

Take a moment to consider these questions. There are no "right" answers – the goal is to explore different perspectives and develop your own reasoning.

  1. 1

    How might the other kids feel if teams are mixed?

  2. 2

    What could happen if Alex says nothing?

  3. 3

    Why might some kids be upset about changing teams?

  4. 4

    How can Alex be brave while being fair?

  5. 5

    What does fairness mean in this situation?

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Philosophical Perspective

Insights from Mary Wollstonecraft

Take a moment to form your own thoughts first, then click to explore philosophical perspectives.

Related Topics

courage
equality
Portrait of Mary Wollstonecraft by John Opie, circa 1797, showing her in a white dress and black hat, looking thoughtfully to her left.

Mary Wollstonecraft1759-1797

Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797) was a pioneering English feminist philosopher and writer. Her seminal work, 'A Vindication of the Rights of Woman' (1792), argued for women's rationality and the necessity of their education for societal progress.

Feminist Philosophy
Enlightenment Philosophy
Liberalism
Explore how Mary Wollstonecraft informs this dilemma and discover additional ethical puzzles shaped by their ideas.
Learn more about Mary Wollstonecraft or continue exploring dilemmas inspired by their philosophy.

Lesson Plans

Quick Fire5 min

The Courage to Act — 5-10 minutes

Learning objectives:

  • -Identify the core ethical tension
  • -Make a quick, reasoned choice

Discussion prompts:

  • 1.Which option did you choose, and why?
  • 2.What would you give up with each choice?
participation