Equal opportunity

High school (ages 12+)
People & Society

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/equal-opportunity

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the historical context?Evolved from challenges to hereditary privilege and systemic discrimination across centuries
2. What is the relationship to meritocracy?Central to the concept, where advancement is determined by ability and achievement
3. Why is equal opportunity important?It helps people use their talents and hard work to reach goals, which makes communities stronger and more creative. When everyone can try their best, society grows and stays fair.
4. How does equal opportunity relate to meritocracy?Meritocracy is a system where people earn positions by skill and effort. Equal opportunity gives everyone the same chance to show their merit, so the best ideas and talents can shine.

Meritocracy: A social system where advancement is based on individual ability or achievement.
Artificial Barriers: Obstacles or restrictions that are not based on natural ability or merit.
Substantive Equality: Focuses on achieving equal outcomes for groups, often requiring targeted interventions.