In the Classroom
Resources for teachers
Ethics Bowl supports teachers directly with classroom-ready resources.
Why use Ethics Bowl in the classroom?
Ethics Bowl cases cover a host of real-world, contemporary issues like artificial intelligence, the prison system, free speech on social media, phones in classrooms, end-of-life care, and many more. Students will learn the tools to thoughtfully discuss issues they already care about, as well as to grapple with questions they haven’t yet considered.
Ethics Bowl prizes collegial discussion and reasoned argumentation. Teams are judged on the depth and nuance of their arguments, but also on how well they genuinely listen to and respectfully engage with one another’s arguments. Rather than working to defeat an opponent, students learn to develop understanding together.
Ethics Bowl cases connect directly to topics already taught in history, science, government, and literature classes, giving students a structured way to apply their knowledge and skills to real, contested questions. It reinforces what teachers are already teaching, with new applications.
Ethics Bowl is easy to set up, and access to the NHSEB cases is free! I have recommended using this unit to many colleagues because I have seen so much growth in my students’ critical thinking and in the depth of their commentary.
Lynne Lundberg, AP English Language and Composition Teacher at Pleasant Valley High School and National Award-Winning Ethics Bowl Coach
Want to learn more about implementing Ethics Bowl in your classroom?
Fill out this form or email Kate Padgett Walsh (kpadwa@iastate.edu).