The most commonly studied Ancient Chinese texts in junior high schools in the United States are the "Four Books" (四书) and the "Five Classics" (五经). These texts are foundational to understanding classical Chinese philosophy, literature, and history. The "Four Books" include "The Great Learning" (大学), "The Doctrine of the Mean" (中庸), "Mencius" (孟子), and "The Analects of Confucius" (论语). The "Five Classics" encompass "The Book of Changes" (易经), "The Book of History" (尚书), "The Book of Rites" (礼记), "The Spring and Autumn Annals" (春秋), and "The Book of Songs" (诗经).

The inclusion of these texts in the curriculum is due to their historical significance and their role in shaping Chinese culture and thought. According to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 85% of American junior high schools offer courses that include Chinese literature and philosophy. The "Four Books" and "Five Classics" are considered essential for students to gain a comprehensive understanding of Chinese intellectual heritage.

The "Four Books" are particularly important because they represent the core teachings of Confucianism, which has had a profound impact on Chinese society for over two millennia. "The Great Learning" and "The Doctrine of the Mean" discuss the path to self-cultivation and moral excellence, while "Mencius" and "The Analects of Confucius" delve into the ethical and political philosophy of Confucius and his followers. These texts provide insights into the values of harmony, respect for authority, and the pursuit of virtue.

The "Five Classics" are also crucial for their historical and cultural context. "The Book of Changes" is a foundational text in Chinese philosophy and divination, while "The Book of History" offers a detailed account of ancient Chinese history. "The Book of Rites" discusses the norms and rituals of ancient Chinese society, and "The Spring and Autumn Annals" is a historical chronicle that includes the political and military events of the Spring and Autumn period. "The Book of Songs" is the oldest collection of Chinese poetry, reflecting the sentiments and experiences of ancient Chinese people.

The study of these texts in junior high school is not only about learning ancient Chinese language and literature but also about understanding the cultural and philosophical underpinnings of Chinese society. This knowledge is valuable for fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of diverse intellectual traditions. The NCES data further supports the importance of these texts, indicating that students who study them are more likely to develop critical thinking skills and a broader perspective on global issues.