World History - African Kingdoms

Teacher : 

Kathleen Peevy

Course/ Subject/Unit

World History 

Date of Instruction: 

August 31, 2022

Standard(s):

SSWH6 Describe the diverse characteristics of early African societies before 1500 CE/AD. 

a. Describe the development and decline of the Sudanic kingdoms (Ghana, Mali, Songhai); include the roles of Sundiata, and the pilgrimage of Mansa Musa to Mecca. 

b. Describe the trading networks and distribution of resources by examining trans-Saharan trade in gold, salt, and slaves; include the Swahili trading cities. 

c. Understand the blending of traditional African beliefs with new ideas from Islam and Christianity and their impact on early African societies.

Learning Target:

I will explain the impact of the Trans-Saharan Trade.

Success Criteria:

I can identify the western African kingdoms.

I can explain why the West African kingdoms were prosperous, including Mansa Musa’s impact. 

I can describe the trading network of the Trans-Saharan Trade.

Activities & Assignments

Text(s)/

Resources Used

Introduction/Activator:

• Pirate Prep

• Image analysis: displayed on the board will be an image of a caravan of camels. Students will use the 3-2-1 technique to analyze the image (3 things they see, 2 observations, 1 argument).

Lesson:

1. Brainpop’s “Mansa Musa” video + class discussion (We Do)

2. Bartering simulation (We Do)

1. Students will simulate trade patterns along the Trans-Saharan trade routes by exchanging “gold,” “ivory,” “wood,” and “precious gems.” 

3. Notes (You Do)

1. Students may work independently or in small groups to complete the notes on the western African kingdoms. They will examine maps, watch a video on Mansa Musa and analyze a timeline 

Differentiation:

• Collaborative simulation provides experiential and kinesthetic learning 

• Multimedia approach to delivering content 

• Flexible grouping