Reading and Writing Workshop

Ancient Civilizations: Influence on the Modern World
This workshop is designed to guide students through analyzing texts about ancient civilizations, writing an argumentative essay, and participating in a panel discussion. It aligns with the following Common Core standards:

• Reading (RH.6-8.10): Analyze texts on the influence of ancient civilizations today
• Writing (WHST.6-8.10): Develop an argumentative essay on the most influential civilization
• Speaking and Listening (SL.6-8.1d): Participate in a panel discussion

Instructions for Using Public Domain Texts
The texts provided in this workshop are in the public domain, meaning they are freely available for use. Students and educators can access full versions online through the provided URLs. The following methods can be used to engage with the texts effectively:

1. Read and Annotate: Students should read assigned sections carefully, taking notes on key themes, arguments, and historical significance
2. Extract Evidence: Identify quotes or passages that support claims about each civilization’s influence
3. Compare and Contrast: Consider similarities and differences in the contributions of each civilization
4. Discuss and Debate: Use evidence from the texts in classroom discussions and the final panel debate

Session 1: Introduction to Ancient Civilizations
Objectives

• Introduce major ancient civilizations, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, and India
• Discuss their influence on modern government, law, philosophy, and society
• Assign readings and research topics

Reading Assignments (RH.6-8.10)
Public Domain Texts

1. Herodotus - Histories (Ancient Greece, early historical writing)
   • Full Text: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/2707
2. Plato - The Republic (Selections on government and justice)
   • Full Text: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/1497
3. Plutarch - Lives of the Noble Greeks and Romans (Selections)
   • Full Text: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/14114
4. The Code of Hammurabi (Babylonian law)
   • Full Text: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/19627
5. The Art of War by Sun Tzu (Ancient China, military influence)
   • Full Text: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/132

Discussion Questions

• How did each civilization shape modern government, law, or philosophy
• Which civilization’s ideas seem most relevant today

Session 2: Writing an Argumentative Essay (WHST.6-8.10)
Objectives

• Develop a thesis on which civilization was most influential
• Use evidence from primary texts to support claims
• Write a structured argumentative essay

Writing Activity

• Prompt: Which ancient civilization had the greatest influence on modern society Support your argument with historical evidence
• Steps:
  1. Outline Arguments: Brainstorm key contributions from at least two civilizations
  2. Use Evidence: Reference specific quotes from the readings
  3. Write Drafts: Organize introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
  4. Peer Review: Exchange drafts and provide feedback
  5. Final Revision and Submission

Session 3: Panel Discussion (SL.6-8.1d)
Objectives

• Engage in a structured debate on civilization influence
• Support arguments with textual evidence
• Respond to counterarguments respectfully

Activity: Civilization Debate Panel

• Roles Assigned: Each student represents a civilization and argues for its influence
• Format:
  1. Opening Statements: Each representative presents an argument
  2. Rebuttals: Students critique opposing arguments
  3. Open Discussion: Panelists discuss the strongest and weakest claims
  4. Conclusion: Panel votes on the most influential civilization based on arguments presented

Final Reflection and Writing Extension

• Write a personal reflection: After participating in the discussion, did your opinion change Why or why not

This workshop provides a structured approach to exploring ancient civilizations through reading, writing, and speaking activities using public domain texts while meeting Common Core standards.