- Define and explain Rules Versus Laws in your own words
- Use key terms such as law accurately
- Apply what you have learned to new examples and questions
- Avoid the common mistakes learners make with this topic
This lesson focuses on Rules Versus Laws: shows the difference between school rules and the country's laws, and who enforces each.
Shows the difference between school rules and the country's laws, and who enforces each.
Key ideas
Rules keep us safe
Many rules exist to stop people getting hurt. Road safety rules, no-running rules by the swimming pool and kitchen rules at home all work the same way: they protect us from dangers we might not notice. Ask yourself what could go wrong without the rule, and the reason for it usually becomes clear.
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 — law: A law is an official rule made by a country's government that everyone must follow, and breaking one can lead to punishment by the courts.
What is the difference between a rule and a law?
Rules are made by families or schools, while laws are made by a country's government and enforced by the courts.
Answer: Rules are made by families or schools, while laws are made by a country's government and enforced by the courts.
- '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.
- '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.
Practice
To keep people safe and to make things fair for everyone.
Without consequences a rule is only a suggestion, because nothing happens when it is broken.
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 "law"?
Imagine your friend suggests the rule 'no homework ever'. Give one reason why your teacher might disagree.
- Rules Versus Laws: shows the difference between school rules and the country's laws, and who enforces each.
- Rules keep us safe: Many rules exist to stop people getting hurt.
- 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.
- Watch out for: 'Rules are just there to spoil our fun'