What Makes Us Human Lesson Plan What Makes Us Human?
Lesson Plan
Time: 60 Minutes
Grade: 11th - 12th
Why This Matters
Understanding humanity is crucial for developing self-awareness, fostering empathy, and navigating complex social dynamics. This lesson encourages students to critically examine their place in the world and connect with universal human experiences, moving beyond biological definitions to explore the ethical and emotional core of our shared existence.
Preparation Steps
Setup Time: 15 minutes
Review all generated materials (Slide Deck, Script, Reading, Worksheet, Assessments).
Print copies of the Exploring Humanity Worksheet and Essence of Humanity Reading for each student.
Prepare display equipment for the Slide Deck .
Arrange students into small groups (3-4 students) for discussions.
Print Warm Up and Cool Down slips.
Approach
Interactive lecture, small group discussion, creative activity, and individual reflection.
Learning Objective
Students will be able to define "humanity," identify key characteristics that define human experience, and articulate their personal understanding of what it means to be human.
Instructional Flow
5 MIN
Warm-Up: Our Shared World
Begin with the Our Shared World Warm Up . Instruct students to think about things that connect all people, regardless of background or location.
Slides 1-2 • Partner discussion • Identifying universal needs/emotions
10 MIN
Introduction to Humanity
Using the Slide Deck and Teacher Script , introduce the concept of humanity. Explore the three layers: the collective race, the biological/psychological quality, and the ethical quality (being humane).
Slides 3-5 • Teacher-led lecture • Socratic questioning
15 MIN
Reading & Discussion: The Essence of Humanity
Distribute The Essence of Humanity Reading . Allow students 5-7 minutes for silent reading. Facilitate a discussion using the Human Traits Discussion Guide , focusing on duality, self-awareness, and empathy.
Slides 6-8 • Silent reading • Class-wide philosophical inquiry
15 MIN
Activity: My Human Blueprint
Introduce the My Human Blueprint Activity . Distribute the Exploring Humanity Worksheet . Students visualize fundamental aspects of humanity by labeling a human figure with traits like reason, creativity, and connection.
Slides 9-10 • Individual/Small group creation • Visual metaphor work
15 MIN
Share, Reflect & Cool Down
Students share their blueprints in small groups. Close with the One Word Humanity Cool Down . Collect assessments (Quiz/Test) as desired for evaluation.
Slides 11-12 • Peer sharing • Final synthesis reflection
Assessment Strategy
Formative: Monitoring discussions and the completion of the Human Blueprint worksheet.
Summative: Understanding Humanity Quiz or Defining Humanity Test.
What Makes Us Human Slide Deck Grade 11-12 | 60 Minutes
What Makes Us Human?
Exploring the Essence of Our Shared Experience
Warm-Up: Our Shared World
What are some things that connect all people, no matter where they live or what their background is?
Think about...
Emotions & Needs
Experiences & Challenges
Dreams & Fears
Share with a partner!
What is Humanity?
What comes to mind when you hear the word "humanity"?
Is it a group of people?
Is it a set of values?
Is it a way of being?
Defining Humanity
The human race collectively
All people living on Earth.
The quality of being human
Characteristics that make us distinct (consciousness, reason, language, emotion).
The quality of being humane
Kindness, compassion, and benevolence towards others.
Why Does Humanity Matter?
Self-Understanding
Helps us understand who we are and our place in the world.
Empathy
Builds deep connection and compassion for the experiences of others.
Societal Impact
Shapes how we interact and build meaningful communities.
Ethical Decisions
Guides our choices and moral actions in the world.
Reading: The Essence of Humanity
We're going to read a short text that explores different ideas about what truly defines us as humans.
As you read, consider:
What main idea is the author trying to convey?
Do you agree or disagree with their perspective?
Time to Read!
Please read "The Essence of Humanity" quietly.
5 - 7 MINUTES
Discussion: Human Traits
01
What traits or characteristics do you believe are uniquely human?
02
How do these traits impact our daily lives and interactions?
03
Can humanity be learned, or is it innate?
Activity: My Human Blueprint
Now it's your turn to visualize what humanity means to you. You'll create a "blueprint" that illustrates the core components of being human.
Creating Your Blueprint
1
Use the blank figure on your worksheet.
What Makes Us Human Script What Makes Us Human?
Facilitator Script
Lesson Time: 60 Minutes
Audience: Grades 11-12
0:00 - 0:05
Warm-Up: Our Shared World
Display Slide 2
"Good morning, everyone! Let's start with a quick warm-up to get our brains thinking. Today, we're going to explore a big question: What makes us human?"
"But before we dive in, I want you to think about this: What are some things that connect all people, no matter where they live, what language they speak, or what their background is? Think about emotions, basic needs, common experiences, or even challenges that everyone faces."
"Take a minute to jot down a few ideas, and then turn to a partner and share what you came up with. We'll bring it back to the whole group in a couple of minutes."
Note: Allow 2-3 minutes for partner sharing, then bring the class back together for a brief whole-group share-out. Call on 3-4 students to share.
0:05 - 0:15
Introduction to Humanity
Display Slide 3
"Great ideas! Many of you touched on universal experiences or feelings, and that's a perfect lead-in to our topic today: humanity. When you hear the word 'humanity,' what first comes to mind? Is it simply all the people on Earth? Or is it something more abstract, like a set of values or a way of behaving? Just shout out your initial thoughts."
Display Slide 4
"You're all hitting on important points. The word 'humanity' actually has a few layers of meaning. First, it can simply refer to the human race collectively – every single person living on Earth. Second, it describes the quality of being human – those unique characteristics like reason, complex language, art, and self-awareness. And finally, it can also mean the quality of being humane – showing kindness, compassion, and benevolence towards others."
Display Slide 5
"Why bother defining this? Because understanding humanity helps us with self-discovery, fosters empathy for people who seem different, and guides our ethical decisions. Today, we're going to explore these layers."
0:15 - 0:30
Reading & Discussion
Display Slide 6 & 7
"To deepen our understanding, we're going to read 'The Essence of Humanity.' This offers a philosophical perspective. As you read, keep two questions in mind: What main idea is the author trying to convey? And do you agree or disagree with their perspective?"
"I'm handing out copies now. Please take about 5-7 minutes to read it silently. Feel free to highlight phrases that stand out to you."
Display Slide 8
"Let's discuss. Based on the reading: What traits are uniquely human? How do they impact our daily lives? And do you think 'being humane' can be learned, or are we just born with it?"
The Essence of Humanity Reading The Essence of Humanity
A Philosophical Reflection
For centuries, thinkers have pondered what truly distinguishes humans from all other species. Is it our intellect, our capacity for complex emotion, our ability to create and destroy, or something else entirely? While there are many compelling arguments, a common thread often woven through these discussions is the unique human capacity for self-awareness and empathy .
Unlike most other living beings, humans possess a profound ability to reflect on their own existence, their past actions, and their future possibilities. This self-awareness allows for introspection, personal growth, and the development of a sense of individual identity. We ask questions about our purpose, our place in the universe, and the meaning of our lives. This internal dialogue is a hallmark of the human mind, driving our philosophical inquiries, artistic expressions, and scientific endeavors.
Coupled with self-awareness is our remarkable capacity for empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. It's what allows us to connect deeply with others, to feel joy in their successes and sorrow in their suffering. This fundamental trait underpins our social structures, our ethical systems, and our drive to cooperate and build communities. While other animals may exhibit forms of altruism or social bonding, the depth and breadth of human empathy—extending even to strangers or fictional characters—is unparalleled. It is the root of compassion, justice, and the desire to alleviate suffering.
However, humanity is not solely defined by its noble traits. Our capacity for reason and empathy is often juxtaposed with our tendencies towards conflict, selfishness, and destruction. This inherent duality —the potential for both profound good and terrible evil—is arguably another defining characteristic of the human condition. It is within this tension that much of human drama unfolds, from personal struggles to global conflicts.
Ultimately, the essence of humanity might not be found in a single trait, but in the intricate interplay of all these qualities. It is in our ability to be both rational and emotional, individual and collective, compassionate and capable of cruelty. It is in our constant striving to understand ourselves and the world around us, and in our perpetual negotiation of our immense potential.
Reading Reflection
What main idea is the author trying to convey about human nature?
The author discusses "duality." Where do you see this duality in the world today?
Exploring Humanity Worksheet Exploring Humanity
Worksheet
Name:
Date:
Part 1: My Human Blueprint
What truly defines humanity for you ? Use the figure below to create your "Human Blueprint." Choose different parts of the figure to represent human qualities, emotions, actions, or ideas (e.g., Head = Reason, Hands = Creativity). Add labels, short explanations, or symbols.
Labels & Explanations
Label/Part...
Label/Part...
Label/Part...
Label/Part...
Label/Part...
Part 2: Personal Reflection
Of all the traits you included, which one do you believe is the most essential to being human? Why?
Human Traits Discussion Guide Human Traits Discussion Guide
Teacher Resource • Facilitation Prompts
Facilitation Tips
Encourage students to use specific evidence from "The Essence of Humanity" reading.
Aim for "Socratic" questioning—ask "Why?" or "How?" to deepen their reasoning.
Allow for silence; give students 11th-12th grade level time to process philosophical concepts.
1
Based on the reading and your own thoughts, what traits or characteristics do you believe are uniquely human? Why do you consider them unique?
Student response area:
2
The reading mentions "self-awareness and empathy" as key human capacities. Do you agree that these are the most essential? Are there other traits you would argue are equally, or more, important?
Student response area:
3
The text discusses the "duality" of humanity—the potential for both profound good and terrible evil. How do you see this tension playing out in current events or history?
Student response area:
4
Can humanity (in the sense of compassion and kindness) be learned? If so, what role does education or community play in "making" us human?
Student response area:
My Human Blueprint Activity Activity: My Human Blueprint
Creative Exploration Activity Guide
Objective
Students will visually represent their unique understanding of the core components of humanity through symbolic mapping on a human figure.
Materials
• Exploring Humanity Worksheet
• Pens, pencils, or fine-tip markers
• Colored pencils (optional for coding)
Instructions
1
Examine the Figure
Refer to the blank human figure on your worksheet. Consider it a map of the human experience waiting to be charted.
2
Brainstorm Human Traits
Think about your own reflections and our class discussions. What is fundamental to being human?
• Reason, Curiosity, Imagination
• Love, Fear, Empathy, Joy
• Connection, Communication
• Morality, Justice, Action
3
Label Your Blueprint
Choose parts of the body to represent these traits. Be symbolic!
Head: Thoughts, consciousness, logicHeart: Emotions, deep empathy, passionHands: Creation, labor, helping othersFeet: Progress, heritage, groundedness
4
Add Detail & Justification
In the sidebar of the worksheet, briefly explain why you chose each part of the body for that specific trait. For example: "I put creativity in the hands because humans use their hands to transform the world."
5
Final Reflection
Complete Part 2 on the worksheet, identifying the single most essential trait you listed and explaining its importance to the human condition.
Encourage students to move beyond surface-level traits. Instead of just "eating" or "breathing," encourage "communal dining" or "the breath of life/spirit."
Humanity Hotseat Game Classroom Game
Humanity Hotseat
Rapid Reflection & Articulation Challenge
The Goal
To rapidly identify and articulate concepts related to humanity based on student-given clues, fostering quick recall and conceptual connections.
The Setup
• List of humanity terms (provided below)
• Timer (set to 60 seconds per round)
• Two chairs at the front ("The Hotseats")
How to Play
1
Form Teams Divide the class into two teams. One volunteer from each team comes to the front and sits in the "Hotseat," facing their team (with their back to the teacher/board).
2
The Reveal The teacher reveals a term from the "Word Bank" below (on the board or a card). Only the teams can see the word; the students in the Hotseats cannot.
3
Clue Giving Team members give verbal clues to their Hotseat player. Restrictions: No saying the word itself, no rhyming, and no "starts with the letter..."
4
The Point The first Hotseat player to correctly guess the word wins a point for their team. Switch players for each new round.
The Humanity Word Bank
Empathy
Reason
Duality
Compassion
Consciousness
Creativity
Ethics
Self-Awareness
Culture
Innovation
Connection
Cooperation
Conflict
Benevolence
Introspection
Potential
Justice
Paradox
Team A Score
Team B Score
Understanding Humanity Quiz Quiz: Understanding Humanity
Assessments
Name:
Date:
Instruction: Select the best answer for multiple-choice questions. For open-response questions, provide a clear and thoughtful explanation.
1. Which of the following is NOT typically considered one of the three main meanings of "humanity" discussed in class?
The human race collectively
The quality of being human (distinct characteristics)
The quality of being humane (compassion)
The study of human history and artifacts
2. According to the reading "The Essence of Humanity," what two key human capacities are often highlighted as most distinctive?
Physical strength and speed
Self-awareness and empathy
Aggression and dominance
Instinct and primal urges
3. In your own words, explain why understanding humanity is considered important for individuals and society.
4. Briefly describe one characteristic you included in your "Human Blueprint" activity and explain why you chose it.
Defining Humanity Test Test: Defining Humanity
Summative Assessment • Philosophy & Ethics
Name:
Date:
This test assesses your understanding of the philosophical, collective, and ethical definitions of humanity. Please provide clear, detailed responses for the open-ended questions, drawing on class readings and discussions.
Part 1: Foundational Concepts
Which of the following best describes the collective meaning of "humanity"?
The ability to feel strong emotions
All people living on Earth
Acts of kindness and compassion
The study of human behavior
The "quality of being humane" primarily refers to:
Our physical appearance
Our advanced intelligence
Kindness, compassion, and benevolence
Our need for social interaction
According to the reading "The Essence of Humanity," which of these is not presented as a key aspect of humanity?
Self-awareness
Empathy
Physical strength
The duality of good and evil
Part 2: Philosophical Inquiry
Explain the concept of "duality" within humanity as discussed in the reading and provide an example.
How does empathy contribute to our ability to build communities and ethical systems? Provide at least two reasons.
Imagine you are explaining what makes humans unique to an alien. What three qualities would you emphasize and why?
End of Test • Reflect on your answers before submitting.
Humanity Assessments Answer Key Answer Key: Humanity Assessments
Teacher Resource • Scoring Guide
Quiz: Understanding Humanity
1. Meaning of "humanity" discussed in class:
The study of human history and artifacts
Reasoning: The three meanings discussed were the human race collectively, the quality of being human, and the quality of being humane.
2. Two key human capacities:
Self-awareness and empathy
Reasoning: The reading explicitly states: "a common thread... is the unique human capacity for self-awareness and empathy."
3. Importance for individuals and society (Open Response):
Sample Answer: Understanding humanity is important because it helps individuals know themselves better (self-awareness) and connect with others (empathy). For society, it guides our interactions, helps build communities, and informs ethical decision-making, leading to a more just and compassionate world.
4. Human Blueprint characteristic (Open Response):
Answers will vary. Students should provide a logical connection between a trait and a body part/function.
Test: Defining Humanity
1. Collective meaning of "humanity":
All people living on Earth
2. "Quality of being humane" refers to:
Kindness, compassion, and benevolence
3. Aspect NOT presented in the reading:
Physical strength
4. Concept of "duality" and example (Open Response):
Sample Answer: Duality is the inherent potential within humans for both profound good and terrible evil. This means we are capable of both great compassion and destructive acts.
Example: Scientific advancements can cure diseases (good) but can also be used to develop weapons of mass destruction (evil).
5. Empathy in building communities/ethical systems (Open Response):
Reason 1: Fosters deep connection and mutual support by allowing us to share the feelings of others.
Reason 2: Helps us recognize the impact of our actions on others, which is the foundation of moral rules and fairness.
6. Explaining humans to an alien (Open Response):
Answers will vary. High-quality responses will emphasize three distinct qualities such as:
Self-awareness: The ability to reflect on existence and purpose.Complex Language: The capacity for abstract communication and cultural transmission.Creative Problem-Solving: Innovation that reshapes our environment through tools and technology. The Human Condition Project Guide Project Guide: The Human Condition
Summative Performance Task
Project Objective
To explore and present a nuanced understanding of a specific aspect of the human condition through a creative and researched medium. You will select a trait, challenge, or capacity unique to humans and analyze its impact on the individual and society.
Your Mission
Phase 1: Selection & Research
Select one specific aspect of humanity (e.g., altruism, the capacity for grief, creative expression, existential inquiry, the duality of ethics). Conduct research to understand how this trait has been viewed historically, philosophically, or scientifically.
Phase 2: Creative Expression
Choose a medium to express your findings. This could be a short documentary film, a series of original paintings with artist statements, a philosophical essay, a spoken word performance, or a detailed multimedia presentation.
Phase 3: The Presentation
Present your final work to the class. Your presentation should clearly articulate: What is this trait? Why is it unique to the human condition? How does it shape our world today?
Topic Inspiration
The Burden of Memory Art as Survival The Ethics of Ambition Fear of the Unknown The Language of Empathy Rituals of Community Collective Grief
Project Requirements
Depth of Content
Your project must go beyond surface-level definitions. It should analyze complexity . If you choose "Love," don't just define it; analyze how it creates both vulnerability and strength in the human experience.
Research Evidence
Include at least three credible sources (philosophical texts, scientific journals, historical accounts). These must be cited in a bibliography attached to your project.
Presentation Quality
Whether it is an essay, a film, or a painting, the final product must be polished, professional, and clear in its message. Use the rubric provided to self-assess before submission.
Timeline
Topic Proposal & Initial Research Due: ________
Outline/Storyboard & Bibliography Due: ________
First Draft/Rough Cut Peer Review Due: ________
Final Presentation & Project Submission Due: ________
The Human Condition Project Rubric Rubric: The Human Condition Project
Assessment Tool
Student:
Project Title:
Category 4 - Exceeds 3 - Meets 2 - Partially Meets 1 - Does Not Meet Content & Depth of Understanding Exceptional insight; profound understanding of complex ideas; offers original perspectives. Clear and thorough understanding; integrates relevant ideas and thoughtful insights. Basic understanding; lacks depth in critical analysis or integration of ideas. Minimal understanding; significant gaps or misconceptions about the human condition. Research & Evidence Extensive, credible sources; evidence is seamlessly integrated and effectively analyzed. Credible and relevant sources used; evidence is integrated and generally well-analyzed. Some relevant sources; lacks variety or depth; evidence superficially analyzed. Lacks credible sources or insufficient evidence; evidence is irrelevant or missing. Organization & Structure Exceptionally well-organized; clear, logical flow; all components are present and coherent. Well-organized with a logical flow; most components are present and coherent. Some structure, but minor inconsistencies or missing components hinder flow. Lacks clear organization; difficult to follow or understand major points. Clarity & Presentation Highly engaging and articulate; professional delivery; visual aids enhance understanding. Clear and effectively communicates ideas; visual aids are appropriate and helpful. Somewhat clear, but moments of confusion; visual aids are basic or minimal. Presentation is unclear or disorganized; visual aids are distracting or absent. Originality & Creativity Exceptional originality; unique insights or fresh perspective in content or presentation. Creative approach; thoughtful insights beyond standard interpretations. Some creative attempts, but relies heavily on conventional ideas. Lacks originality; project is generic, uninspired, or copied.
Total Score
_____ / 20
Teacher Comments & Feedback Our Shared World Warm Up Warm Up: Our Shared World
Reflection & Connection
Take a moment to reflect: What are some things that connect all people, regardless of where they live, what language they speak, or what their background is?
Think about:
Universal emotions (joy, fear)
Basic human needs (shelter)
Common life experiences
Dreams and aspirations
Jot down at least 3 ideas:
Be ready to share your reflections with a partner or the class.
One Word Humanity Cool Down Cut Along Line
Cool Down: One Word Humanity
After today's lesson, discussions, and activities about what makes us human, take a moment to reflect. If you had to describe "humanity" in just ONE WORD , what would it be?
My one word for humanity is:
Write your word here...
Cut Along Line
Cool Down: One Word Humanity
After today's lesson, discussions, and activities about what makes us human, take a moment to reflect. If you had to describe "humanity" in just ONE WORD , what would it be?
My one word for humanity is:
Write your word here...
