Gandhi and the Caste System

This lesson is designed to be adaptable to the needs of your class. It can build on previous knowledge of Gandhi, and works best if that is the case, but can also be used as an introduction to Gandhi’s teaching and life. (To this end, I’ve included a link of him burning the passes and his famous non violence speech that followed it, which are both short and excellent insights into his teaching and philosophy. On non violence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKzKj_8CO2g
Burning of the passes (ahimsa):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50gNryy9JnA)

It includes extension tasks for able and talented, and differentiated activities including ethical dilemmas, youtube videos, group discussions, treasure hunts as well as written tasks. A broad range of activities, in my experience, always bosters engagement. (there is a need to print 10 slides here)

The lesson aims to remind students’ of Gandhi’s teachings and inform them of the Caste system. There is also a short video about Narayanan Krishnan, an inspirational Hindu who has disregarded his Brahmin caste to help untouchables or down and outs in Indian Society.
2 differently worded Learning Objectives here for lower and higher ability or age groups:
To remember who Gandhi was.

to explain what the caste system was.
To know Gandhi’s opinion of the untouchables.
To develop and evaluate my own opinion about the caste system.
To empathise with people who are in the caste system.

Or, for KS4,
All will be able to explain what the caste system was, and why Gandhi was against it.
Most will be able to relate the situation to contemporary issues re: jobs and status.
Some will be able to explain why the caste system became a source of prejudice and discrimination.