Above, middle school students work on the Doumen Camp Annual.
SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT!
I gave some of the middle school students a special assignment yesterday. Each of the three groups had to imagine that they were starting a new society on a deserted island, and they had to develop ten laws to govern the island. I want you to hear some of their ideas for governing. (I’ve edited their ideas slightly, just for readability. The items in parentheses are my comments.)
“Harmonious” Island
1. The more you work, the more you get.
2. Men should live outside; women live inside (if there is not enough room inside for everyone)
3. When somebody is in danger, try your best to save them.
4. Keep yourself safe.
5. Never steal and rob.
6. When it’s very hot, take the trap out and pour some sea water on it to make salt (self sufficiency)
7. Try to make a wooden house or find a cave to live in everyday.
8. Don’t go swimming alone. At least two persons should go – or the other is at least working near the lake.
9. After using the boat, you must push the boat up on shore. If it is going to rain, move the boat to a safe place.
10. Everyone must get on well with others. Just get along as with relatives. Don’t fight or quarrel.
“Second China” Island
1. If you don’t obey the rules, you will be punished.
2. Don’t hurt each other.
3. Don’t steal and rob.
4. Be honest and friendly.
5. Respect and help each other.
6. Work hard.
7. Listen to the leader.
8. Stick together.
9. Take care of yourself and the environment.
10. Children must be educated.
Third Island (I don’t remember the name they chose for their island)
1. All people should obey the rules.
2. All the people have the right to talk freely.
3. Give prizes to the people who plant more. (incentive)
4. No stealing and robbing.
5. No hitting others.
6. Protect the rights of women and children.
7. Help each other.
8. Don’t cut too much. (Avoid hurting the environment.)
9. If you don’t obey the rules you will be punished.
10. All people are the same.
This is a pretty impressive group of students!
Jeff
