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Teachings of Confucius — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging reading passage explores the teachings of Confucius, a highly influential philosopher from ancient China, who lived during the Zhou Dynasty. The text examines how Confucius' ideas about social order, respect, and harmony shaped Chinese society for centuries and continue to impact the world today. Students will learn about the historical context of his era, key concepts like filial piety and the importance of education, and the ways Confucian thought influenced government and daily life. The passage integrates primary sources, cause-and-effect relationships, and connections to geography and social hierarchy. Included are a glossary of key terms, a Spanish translation, a differentiated version for accessibility, as well as multiple-choice and writing activities. The resource aligns with CA HSS 6.6 and CCSS standards, and features read aloud audio and a timeline for deeper understanding.

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Confucius and his students2 — "Confucius and his students" /
Source: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Confucius was a Chinese philosopher whose ideas shaped society and government in ancient China. He lived from 551 BCE to 479 BCE during the late Zhou Dynasty, a period known for political instability and frequent wars between rival states. His teachings focused on creating a harmonious and orderly society by promoting respect, moral behavior, and education.

Confucius believed that every person had a role to play in society. He taught that rulers should govern by setting a good example and showing virtue, which means moral excellence. In return, people were expected to obey their leaders and follow the rules. A key concept in his philosophy is filial piety, or respect for one's parents and ancestors. Confucius argued that strong families with proper respect would lead to a stable society. He also emphasized the importance of education, saying, “Education breeds confidence. Confidence breeds hope. Hope breeds peace.”

Primary sources from the Analects—a collection of Confucius’s sayings recorded by his students—show how his ideas were passed down. For example, one passage states, “The Master said: ‘If a ruler is upright, all will go well without orders. If he himself is not upright, even though he gives orders they will not be obeyed.’” Archaeological evidence of Confucian temples and inscriptions, such as those found in Qufu (his birthplace), show how his influence spread throughout China. Over time, Confucianism became the official philosophy during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Government officials were selected through exams based on Confucian texts, changing how leaders were chosen.

Confucius’s teachings affected daily life and social hierarchy. Respect for elders, loyalty, and correct behavior were seen as essential virtues. His ideas also shaped relationships between rulers and subjects, parents and children, and friends. The focus on order and harmony helped unite a vast and diverse land. While other philosophies like Daoism and Legalism competed for influence, Confucianism remained central to Chinese culture for centuries, with many traditions continuing even today.

The teachings of Confucius show how ideas can shape an entire civilization. By stressing the importance of order, harmony, and respect, Confucius created a legacy that influenced not only China, but also neighboring countries like Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. His philosophy helps us understand the values and beliefs that created stability in ancient societies and connects to themes of leadership, ethics, and social organization throughout history.

Interesting Fact: Confucius was the first teacher in China to open a school for students from all social classes, not just the wealthy.

When did Confucius live?

551–479 BCE1200–1100 BCE300–200 CE800–700 CE

What dynasty was Confucius born in?

Zhou DynastyHan DynastyQin DynastySong Dynasty

What is filial piety?

Respect for parentsRespect for friendsRespect for rulersRespect for teachers

Why did Confucius value education?

It brought hope and peaceIt made people richIt ended all warsIt built temples

How did Confucianism affect government?

Officials took exams on teachingsRulers had absolute powerMonks ruled the countryLaws were not needed

What helped unite ancient China?