7th Grade West Africa Passages

Gain insights into West Africa's geographical features and historical events, exploring colonial impacts and regional ecosystems. Understand the continent's political geography and its dynamic historical context.

Examine the geographical and historical significance of West Africa, highlighting the importance of the Niger River and key historical empires. Gain insights into pivotal regional developments and deepen the understanding of West Africa's rich cultural and historical landscape.

Analyze the historical context and consequences of the Berlin Conference in shaping Africa's political boundaries and socio-economic landscapes. Understand the geopolitical maneuvers of European powers and the enduring effects on African nations. Develop insights into colonialism's legacy and current global relations, focusing on the impact of European decisions on Africa's contemporary political and socio-economic structures.

Examine the principal motivations and achievements of European exploration in North America and West Africa during the Age of Exploration. Understand the economic, cultural, and technological impacts of these expeditions and the ensuing interactions between Europeans and indigenous peoples. Learners will gain insights into the driving forces behind exploration, the consequences for diverse societies, and the exchange of knowledge and resources. Skills developed include critical thinking about historical events, their motivations, and their lasting effects on global interactions.

Explore the strategic location and taxation of the ancient Kingdom of Ghana, which facilitated its significant wealth and influence in West Africa. Gain insights into the economic and cultural factors that contributed to Ghana's prosperity and eventual decline. Enhance skills in historical analysis and apply economic theory to understand the dynamics of this influential kingdom.

Explore Africa's ancient trans-Saharan trade, emphasizing the economic significance of gold and salt in exchanges with Europe and beyond. Gain insights into the cultural influence of Islam across Africa, including its impact on architecture and the spread of literacy through Qur'an teachings.

Explore the diverse landscape of African religions, examining traditional beliefs and the impacts of Islam and Christianity across the continent. Gain an in-depth understanding of cultural exchanges, the distribution of various religions, and key cultural beliefs that are prevalent in Africa.

Investigate the inspiring life and significant achievements of Mae C. Jemison, the first African American woman in space. Gain insights into her educational journey, professional milestones, and the impact of her work on science and society. Develop a deeper understanding of her contributions to STEM fields and her role as a trailblazer for future generations.

Explore the historical dynamics of the Scramble for Africa by examining European colonial ambitions and their impact on African societies in the late 19th century. Understand the political motivations behind European colonization, assess the socio-economic consequences, and analyze the lasting effects on the continent's development. Learners will develop skills in historical analysis and critical thinking related to the intersection of European and African histories.

Explore key geographical features and trade dynamics within North Africa, focusing on the Sahara Desert. Enhance understanding of desertification and its impacts, while grasping the historical significance of trade routes and natural resources in regional development. Gain a comprehensive grasp of Africa's socio-economic evolution.