Confucius' Five Relationships

How do the Analects embody the ethical framework of Confucian thought?

Aim

Why are Confucius' Five Relationships important in maintaining social order in a Chinese society?

Student Performance Objective

• to analyze the significance of Confucius' Five Relationships

Springboard

Students form groups according to which Analects they selected. The members of the group should discuss and reach consensus on the meaning of the two Analects. The group agrees on the significance of the relationship and adds more information on Chart A (from the previous activity). Students "jigsaw" into new groups. Each "expert" shares his information with the new group. Students fill in the chart.

Procedure

1. "Why do you think Confucius believed these relationships would bring about social harmony?"
2. Teacher makes material relevant by citing examples of traditions in contemporary Asian culture which are related to ideas from Confucianism.

Bowing
Elders living in the same house as children
Respect for elders
Ancestor worship

Application

Distribute a sample scenario. Have students write a one paragraph response to each of the scenarios. Their paragraphs must answer the following questions. How would a Confucian respond to each of these incidents? How would you respond to it? How do these two responses differ from each other?

• Scenario: Your grandmother is sick in the hospital and your parents want you to visit her everyday. What do you do?
• Scenario: Your parents are in trouble and they need money. You steal from your friend to help out your parents. What do you do?

Teacher Tip

You might have students complete a "problem-solution" journal. Through writing, students brainstorm possible alternatives and propose solutions.

For this activity, students would divide paper in thirds. Label Column I, Problems; Column II, Confucian Response; and Column III, My Solution.

Proceed to the next activity.

Return to the previous activity.

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