The Code of Hammurabi: An Eye for An Eye

Explore one of history’s earliest legal systems with this fifth- and sixth-grade nonfiction reading worksheet! Students will read about King Hammurabi and his efforts to create a unified set of laws across his empire. The passage introduces learners to ancient Mesopotamian society while encouraging them to think critically about justice, punishment, and fairness.

This two-page reading comprehension worksheet supports informational reading, vocabulary development, and critical-thinking skills. As students analyze the passage and answer text-based questions, they strengthen their ability to interpret historical information and evaluate an author’s point of view. The social studies connection also helps learners better understand how legal systems have evolved over time.

For more non-fiction reading comprehension, check out Extended Reading Comprehension: Think Fast!