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Origins of Human Language — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging history reading passage explores how early humans developed language and complex ideas, transforming their societies and shaping the path of civilization. Students will learn about archaeological discoveries, the significance of cave art, and the role of communication in human advancement. The passage aligns with CA HSS 6.1 and CCSS RH.6-8.1, supporting deep inquiry into ancient history. Activities include a glossary, quiz, writing prompts, graphic organizers, a timeline, and Spanish translations. This resource is designed to help students analyze historical causation, use evidence, and connect past developments to broader world history themes, with read aloud audio for accessibility.

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Cave painting, Anthropos (2) — "Cave painting, Lascaux" by DaBler / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Modern humans first appeared in Africa about 300,000 years ago. These early people are called Homo sapiens. Unlike earlier hominids, Homo sapiens developed advanced language and symbolic thinking. Archaeologists have found evidence of this in places like Blombos Cave in South Africa, where people carved geometric patterns into ochre stones about 75,000 years ago.

One of the earliest forms of communication was spoken language. Language allowed early humans to share ideas, teach skills, and plan hunts together. This ability to communicate complex thoughts set Homo sapiens apart from other species. Archaeological discoveries, such as engraved bones and tools, show that early humans began to express ideas and record information. In Europe, the discovery of cave paintings in sites like Lascaux, France (created over 17,000 years ago), provides evidence of early artistic expression. These images of animals and symbols may have been used for storytelling, rituals, or recording important events.

The development of language led to great changes in human society. With language, people could pass down knowledge to future generations. This helped groups survive and adapt to new environments. For example, early humans migrating out of Africa around 60,000 years ago used language to share information about animal behavior and weather, which improved their chances of survival. The ability to talk about things that were not present—such as distant places or past experiences—enabled humans to plan, cooperate, and form larger communities. Over time, these skills resulted in the rise of more complex social structures and the sharing of culture.

Language and symbolic thinking also influenced daily life and social hierarchy. People could share stories, create myths, and develop rules. These ideas helped early societies organize themselves and maintain order. Archaeological evidence, such as burial sites with grave goods, shows that early humans valued certain individuals and may have believed in an afterlife. This suggests that language contributed to the development of beliefs, traditions, and social roles.

The development of ideas and language marks a turning point in human history. These abilities allowed Homo sapiens to outlive and outcompete other hominids, such as Neanderthals. The spread of language and shared ideas laid the foundation for later inventions, including writing and civilization itself. Understanding how early humans thought and communicated connects us to the roots of all human societies and is a key theme in world history.

Interesting Fact: Some of the earliest musical instruments, like bone flutes, have been found in caves over 40,000 years old, showing that music was also an important part of early human culture.

Where did Homo sapiens first appear?

AfricaAsiaEuropeAustralia

How old are the Lascaux cave paintings?

Over 17,000 yearsAbout 5,000 years1,000 yearsAbout 200 years

What was found in Blombos Cave?

Geometric patterns on ochreClay potsBronze swordsStone pyramids

How did language help early humans?

Share knowledge and surviveHunt aloneGrow cropsBuild cars

Why are burial sites important evidence?

Show beliefs and social rolesShow technologyShow animal migrationShow trade routes

What set Homo sapiens apart?

Advanced language and thinkingRunning fastBig sizeBright colors