Overview
The Human Rights and the Rule of Law unit invites 6th-9th grade students to investigate how the concepts of justice, equity, and human rights emerged and evolved from ancient civilizations to the modern era. Beginning with Mesopotamia and Hammurabi’s Code, students trace the development of human rights across time, analyzing how laws can protect—or harm—communities. This inquiry-based unit builds foundational skills in civic reasoning and critical analysis while encouraging students to question who benefits and who is excluded by systems of “law and order.”
Rooted in WAESN’s Ethnic Studies Framework, this unit emphasizes Power & Oppression and Resistance & Liberation, helping learners connect ancient history to contemporary conversations about justice and human rights. Through close reading, discussion, and interactive activities like court simulations, students develop a deeper understanding of fairness, responsibility, and social systems.
Educators will love this unit because it:
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Aligns with WA State Social Studies and Common Core Standards
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Connects ancient world history to modern ideas of equity and human rights
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Builds academic vocabulary and critical thinking through engaging, structured lessons
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Integrates Ethnic Studies principles into a traditional history curriculum
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Includes accessible materials and formative/summative assessments
Format & Duration
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3-week unit (15 class sessions, 50 minutes each)
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Designed for 6th grade Ancient World History or Social Studies
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Includes interactive, discussion-based learning and a summative RAFT essay assessment
What’s Included
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Lesson plans and student handouts
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Vocabulary lists and glossaries
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Readings on human rights and Hammurabi’s Code
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Simulation materials for Hammurabi’s Court
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Graphic organizers and exit tickets
Developed by award-winning educators, Tracy Castro-Gill, Ph.D. and Andrew Chase, with support from the WAESN curriculum team and College Spark Washington, this unit transforms the study of ancient civilizations into an exploration of justice, power, and the enduring fight for human rights.