Human Rights: Recognition, Research, and Response

High School

The Global Narrative on Human Rights Issues: The Nature of Violence and Promoting Peace in the 21st Century
William B. Valmyr

Human rights issues have become the prominent topic in recent history. While many nations and governments have attempted to participate in the public discourse on issues related to human rights, it is evident that most Americans are not aware of the global narrative on human rights. Students of all ages need to know, understand, value, and promote the principles of human rights as highlighted in documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Human Rights Through a Post-Colonial Lens
Elizabeth McKinley

Students can benefit immensely from viewing texts through lenses other than their own. In this lesson, students will examine how the Post-Colonial lens can broaden one’s understanding of human rights in Northern Africa. This strategy can be applied to post-colonial literature from around the world.

Three Lessons on Human Rights
Lina Lenberg

During this time of great national and global conflict, it is particularly important for students to know their rights and learn to respect the rights of others. These lessons can serve as an entry point for students to develop an awareness of human rights instruments and to reflect on human rights issues. By emphasizing that we are all human beings with inalienable rights, the critical consciousness of students can be raised to help combat xenophobia, which will lead to more compassionate school environments and, ultimately, society as a whole.

Refugee Stories
KE Hones

Students have a wide range of academic challenges. Classes enjoy going to a neighboring elementary school to read to younger students. Students grades 7-12 will work in class & in the library. Most students are unfamiliar with primary sources & academic research. Some of the students have recently arrived to the US. Lessons will build on student interest & give students many opportunities to make choices & share learning. Students may work individually, with partners or in small groups, depending on academic &/or emotional needs.

Refugees in Time of War
Valerie Haskins

This lesson presents the real dilemmas that refugees face as they flee a crisis such as war, persecution, national disasters, poverty and environmental disasters.

Human Rights for All?
Johanna Heppeler

As responsible participants in an increasingly globalized world, it is imperative for students to increase their awareness of human rights by building background knowledge on the topic. Classrooms provide an important space for students to engage in conversations and activities that require them to confront controversial topics and to deepen their own understanding of these topics. Often, human rights are framed as a series of disasters occurring outside of the United States, which strips students of their ability to recognize domestic actions that relate to human rights. The universality of human rights should encourage all students to raise their awareness and become active agents in creating a more just and humane world, both domestically and internationally.

Middle School

Human Rights Lesson Plan: Unit 1
Teresa Warner

What changes in our society are possible when students learn about human rights? Which international document lists a set human rights principles that guide nations interactions with humans? How can we learn about activists for human rights through art? Why is it important to protect the human rights of all people?

The Role of Women in the Ancient World
Alexis Bollman

It is important for students to become more globally aware of the role women played not only during ancient civilizations, but also how women are making an impact on today’s global society. Students must use their knowledge from primary and secondary documents to determine if women need guardians. Students must also decide moving forward how women can influence the role of Human Rights as well as how they can be Human Rights Defenders.