Levels of Morality

Why do you do what you do?

Level 1- Punishment

You do it to stay out of TROUBLE.

You do your homework or are quiet in class because you know that if you don’t follow the
rules, you’ll get in trouble. We shouldn’t be doing thing to avoid trouble. That’s no why we’re in
school.

Level 2- Self-Interest

You do it for a reward.

In school, the most obvious rewards are grades. But are you really doing your math test just to
get the best score or just to get to rate your learning level at a 3 or 4? Is that really why?? No!
We’re learning math to help us in our lives. We learn fractions and pay attention so we can
measure and cook. We learn decimals so we can deal with money efficiently and smartly.

Level 3- Good Intentions

You do it to please or impress other people.

Do you tie your shoes in the morning to please other people?

School work- Look at my art project! What do you think? Is it good? Look at your art! Why
does it matter what I think?? It’s your masterpiece! It shouldn’t really matter what I think
because it came from your amazing creativity. Don’t try to please me, I’m just your teacher.
What do you think and care about??

Level 4- Obedience to Authority

You do it to follow the rules.

Rules are useful ways to make sure most people behave, but some of the most influential
people in history broke the rules. MLK, Jesus…. These were people who questioned the rules
and went against them to create change for the better.

Level 5- Social Contract

You do it because you’re considerate of other people.

We’re quiet during story time so other people can hear the story. I don’t walk around the room
while you’re working and talk to myself or you because I recognize that work time is your time
to concentrate. We are quiet during tests why??

Level 6- Principle of Conscience

You do it because you have a personal code of behavior.

You do it because that’s just who you are. You’re kind to others because you are kind. You are
a good friend because you just are, not to get a reward or even to please your friend. You know
right from wrong and you do things simply because you have a way of living and behaving that
you believe is the right way to live and behave.