- Define and explain Following Rules and Consequences in your own words
- Use key terms such as consequence accurately
- Apply what you have learned to new examples and questions
- Avoid the common mistakes learners make with this topic
This lesson focuses on Following Rules and Consequences: explains what happens when rules are kept or broken, and why consequences should be fair.
Explains what happens when rules are kept or broken, and why consequences should be fair.
Key ideas
Rules need consequences
A rule without a consequence is just a suggestion, because nothing happens when it is broken. Fair consequences match the rule-breaking — for example, losing five minutes of playtime after pushing in line — and they apply to everyone equally. Consequences work best when they are known in advance and given calmly.
Fair rules, unfair rules
A fair rule applies to everyone equally and has a good reason behind it, such as everyone tidying up so the classroom stays pleasant. An unfair rule picks on one person or group for no good reason, like only letting some children use the best toys. If a rule seems unfair, it is worth asking politely why it exists and whether it treats everyone the same.
Key term — consequence: A consequence is what happens as a result of an action — keeping rules builds trust, while breaking them usually leads to a fair penalty.
Why do rules need consequences?
Without consequences a rule is only a suggestion, because nothing happens when it is broken.
Answer: Without consequences a rule is only a suggestion, because nothing happens when it is broken.
- 'Unfair rules should just be ignored' Ignoring an unfair rule can cause trouble for you and others. A better approach is to raise it calmly with a teacher or parent and explain why it seems unfair.
- 'Rules are just there to spoil our fun' Most rules exist to keep people safe or to make things fair for everyone. Try asking what the rule protects before deciding it is pointless.
Practice
To keep people safe and to make things fair for everyone.
Rules are made by families or schools, while laws are made by a country's government and enforced by the courts.
Fair — it treats every pupil equally and has a clear reason.
Unfair — it favours one group for no good reason.
Quick check
Which of these best defines "consequence"?
Imagine your friend suggests the rule 'no homework ever'. Give one reason why your teacher might disagree.
- Following Rules and Consequences: explains what happens when rules are kept or broken, and why consequences should be fair.
- Rules need consequences: A rule without a consequence is just a suggestion, because nothing happens when it is broken.
- fair: Something is fair when it treats people equally and gives everyone the same chances, without favouring one person over another.
- Watch out for: 'Unfair rules should just be ignored'