7th Grade West Africa Lessons

Examine the history and impact of the major kingdoms of West Africa, emphasizing their economic prosperity and crucial trade routes. Explore the significant contributions of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai to African history and the enduring legacy of leaders such as Mansa Musa. Develop skills in historical analysis and gain a contextual understanding of these influential civilizations.

Explore the geographical, cultural, and historical aspects of West Africa, with a focus on regions, major religions, initial European contact, and key natural resources. Gain insights into the impact of historical events on the region's current state, understand the significance of crucial resources, and develop a comprehensive geographic and cultural perspective of West Africa.

Investigate the complex trade networks of West Africa, highlighting the exchange of gold and salt. Gain an understanding of the significance of trade routes, the influence of geographic landmarks, and the economic impact on societies in the region.

Examine the preservation of family traditions with a focus on the essential role of music in West African cultural practices. Gain a deeper understanding of cultural heritage and learn about the transmission of traditions across generations. Enhance appreciation for the role of music in maintaining cultural continuity.

Examine the formation and evolution of early West African communities and settlements, with a focus on their agricultural and trade systems. Gain insights into the development of economic systems, the roles of rulers and their armies, and the impact of trans-Saharan trade to enhance understanding of historical societal structures.

Explore how rivers, trade, and ironworking played a crucial role in transforming early West African villages into vibrant cities and powerful kingdoms. Understand the impact of geography and resource utilization on societal development, gaining insights into the historical growth of empires. This study fosters skills in comprehending the relationship between natural resources and the evolution of complex societies.

Focus on understanding the geographical and economic structures that shaped the West African empires, examining key trade goods and the influence of Islam. Gain insights into trade dynamics and the cultural transformations within these historical societies.

Examine the unique timbres of West African instruments such as the Kora, Talking Drum, Djembe, and Cajon, while considering the dynamics of leadership and followership in musical contexts. Develop an understanding of musical structures and enhance listening skills to recognize call and response patterns in everyday situations.

Explore the cultural heritage and legacies of West African societies by examining historical empires, trade networks, and artistic traditions. Understand the impact of cultural practices on society and identify significant historical figures and trade influences. Engage with compelling questions and topics to deepen understanding of how cultural traditions shape social structures.

Explore the vibrant and diverse art forms of West Africa, focusing on the distinctive features of Kente cloth and sculptures. Gain the ability to identify different art forms through an understanding of their materials and techniques and develop an appreciation for their cultural significance.

Investigate the intriguing realm of West African oral traditions, highlighting the griots' roles as storytellers, historians, and cultural custodians. Learners will gain an understanding of storytelling practices and enhance their appreciation of diverse historical narratives.

Explore the geographical landscapes and resource distribution in West African trading kingdoms, particularly highlighting the Kingdom of Ghana's pivotal role. Understand the interaction between physical geography and the economy, focusing on the trade of essential resources like gold and salt. Gain insights into historical trade dynamics and develop analytical skills to assess how geographic factors influence economic activities.

Examine the significant impact of geography on trade and early societies in West Africa by highlighting key geographic features such as the Sahara Desert and the Niger River. Understand the role of geography in shaping trade practices and societal structures while developing historical analysis and geographical literacy skills.

Explore the rise and influence of the Ghana Empire in West Africa, highlighting key trade practices and geographical features. Gain an understanding of the significant role played by gold and salt in Ghana's prosperity, and examine the systems established to manage these valuable resources.

Analyze the rise and fall of the prominent West African Kingdoms: Ghana, Mali, and Songhai, with a focus on their economic systems, cultural influence, and key historical figures such as Mansa Musa. Enhance understanding of the role of trade, especially in gold and salt, and explore the growth and legacy of Islamic culture in the region. Gain insights into the historical and modern impacts these factors have had on West Africa.