1. Stories of Human Rights
ELA Module 1 Unit 1 Lesson 8
Close Reading: Comparing the Original UDHR and the “Plain Language” Version

2. Learning Targets
I can explain why certain words in the original UDHR are repeated.
I can compare the original UDHR, the Plain Language Version, and my own summaries of specific UDHR articles by focusing on specific word choice.
I can skim and scan the original UDHR looking for repeated words.

3. Repeated words and phrases in the UDHR: why do they matter?
Skim and Scan:
Skim the UDHR to find words or phrases that are repeated throughout.
Talk with your partner about the words you found.
Everyone, no one, without limitation, without discrimination
What was the purpose of including these words and phrases and repeating them so often?

4. Repeated words and phrases in the UDHR: why do they matter?
The authors created this document to be universal.
What does universal mean?
The authors of the UDHR wanted to make sure that we know human rights have no exceptions. They apply to every one.
Hint: the –al at the end of the word is a common way to signal an adjective (describing word)

5. Word Choice and Meaning: Comparing the original UDHR to the plain language version
The authors of the UDHR wanted everyone on the planet to know, understand, and honor the rights described in the document. It is important that you are able to describe this document in your own words. Today we will look at the Plain Language Version of the UDHR (simple version).

6. Word Choice and Meaning: Comparing the original UDHR to the plain language version
Draw a box around the articles that you became “experts” on in our last lesson.
With your partner, read the plain language version then answer these questions:
What words are the same?
What words are different?
Do you think this plain language version is better or worse than the original? Why?

7. Word Choice and Meaning: Comparing the original UDHR to the plain language version
WARNING: Anything changed from one version of something to another runs the risk of losing some of the original meaning.
Have you ever watched the movie version of a book you loved and found it disappointing or better?
What is gained in the Plain Language Version? How is it better?
What is lost in the Plain Language Version? How is it worse?

8. Exit Ticket: For your expert articles:
What was gained in the Plain Language Version of the UDHR?
What was lost?