Lesson Plan

• Describe the definition, key features and financing options of a Universal Basic Income (UBI).
• Analyse the arguments for and against UBI using evidence from case studies.
• Apply a simple cost‑benefit framework to evaluate the equity and efficiency of UBI proposals.
• Compare pre‑ and post‑UBI income distributions using the Gini coefficient.

• Projector and screen
• PowerPoint slides summarising UBI concepts
• Handouts with case‑study data (Finland, Alaska, Ontario)
• Calculator or spreadsheet template for cost calculations
• Whiteboard and markers
• Exit‑ticket slips

Begin with a quick poll: “If you received a regular cash payment with no conditions, how would you use it?” Connect this to students’ prior knowledge of welfare and redistribution. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to evaluate whether UBI is an effective equity policy.

1. Do‑now (5') – Think‑pair‑share on current welfare experiences.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Definition, key features, and financing mechanisms of UBI.
3. Case‑study analysis (15') – Small groups examine Finland, Alaska, and Ontario data; complete a worksheet comparing outcomes.
4. Debate (15') – Two teams argue “UBI: net benefit” vs “UBI: net cost,” citing evidence.
5. Cost‑calculation activity (10') – Use the formula Total Cost = N × B to estimate fiscal requirements for a hypothetical UBI.
6. Exit ticket (5') – Write one advantage and one concern of UBI, plus a personal judgement.

Summarise the main arguments and the quantitative insights from the cost exercise. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and address any lingering misconceptions. For homework, ask students to research another UBI pilot (e.g., Spain or Brazil) and prepare a brief report evaluating its equity impact.