In this lesson, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of SDG #8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, including its key targets and global relevance. The unit begins with an introduction to the foundational elements of SDG 8, focusing on the importance of inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. Students will explore real-world economic challenges such as unemployment, informal labor, and economic inequality through interactive videos and group discussions. They will analyze issues like child labor, modern slavery, and the need for fair wages and safe working conditions, using global case studies to connect these concepts to the real lives of workers. Students will also investigate the role of small and medium enterprises and financial institutions in promoting economic development. By examining maps and data on global inequality, students will learn to identify disparities in access to decent work and economic opportunities. Through a hands-on worker interview, students will gain insight into local labor conditions and job experiences, fostering empathy and real-world connections. Additional creative activities, such as poster campaigns and gallery walks, encourage students to reflect on labor rights and become advocates for economic justice. By designing ethical businesses and participating in a “Build a Better World” gallery walk, students will synthesize their learning and propose sustainable, worker-friendly economic models. The unit concludes with a summative reflection on how students can take action toward creating more equitable economies. Through this lesson, students will build critical thinking, collaboration, empathy, and advocacy skills, equipping them to understand complex global labor systems and contribute to a fairer, more sustainable world.

Attribution and License

Attribution

This Open Educational Resource, Cultivating Global Competence through the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, was developed by Ryan Hauck, Julianna Patterson, and Global Classroom, World Affairs Council – Seattle. 

Graphics:

• Cover image by Julianna Patterson from Canva.
• Sustainable Development Goals images copyright United Nations. All rights reserved. Used pursuant to fair use.

License

Except where otherwise noted, Cultivating Global Competence through the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, by World Affairs Council of Seattle, is available under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial License. All logos and trademarks are property of their respective owners. Sections used under fair use doctrine (17 U.S.C. § 107) are marked.

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