Homeschool African History Activities

This product is a crossword puzzle over facts about Sub-Saharan Africa. Questions include the geography, history, people, economy, and culture of Sub-Saharan Africa. Answer key is included.

Unravel the mysteries of Ancient Ghana's dramatic fall with this engaging reading comprehension worksheet!

Step into a world of clashing faiths, shifting alliances, and empires rising and falling. Your students will delve into the fascinating story of Ghana, a kingdom once gilded in gold, as it faces a formidable challenge from the north: the Almoravids, a zealous Berber dynasty driven by a fervent brand of Islam.

This comprehensive resource includes:

• Captivating narrative: Dive into the rich history of Ghana and the Almoravids through vivid storytelling and historical accuracy.
• Primary source analysis: Analyze a historical excerpt to gain firsthand insights into the growing presence of Islam in Ghana.
• Comprehension questions: Test your students' understanding with multiple-choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer questions that delve deeper into the text.
• Answer key: Save valuable time with a clear and concise answer key for all questions.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the historical context of the clash between Ghana and the Almoravids.
• Identify the impact of Islam on Ghanaian society and culture.
• Evaluate the significance of the Battle of Beth Koufo in shaping West African history.
• Develop critical thinking skills through primary source analysis and question-answering.

Common Core Standards Alignment:

• RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a historical text.
• RH.6-8.3: Analyze how a primary source reveals the historical context of a particular event.
• RH.6-8.7: Integrate information from various sources to answer questions about a particular historical period.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.7: Analyze various features of text, including figurative language, word choice, and tone.

Step into the gilded halls of power and uncover the captivating lives of Ancient Ghana's royalty! This engaging reading comprehension and critical thinking worksheet transports your students to a world where gold glitters, whispers fill the air, and kings and queens navigate the delicate dance between daily routines and awe-inspiring responsibilities.

Delve into:

• A Day in the Life: Witness the multifaceted duties of Ghanaian rulers, from religious rituals and council meetings to diplomatic encounters and royal hunts.
• Secrets of the Palace: Explore the intricate power dynamics within the royal family, where queen mothers hold sway and griots, the keepers of oral history, weave tales of triumphs and lessons learned.
• Unraveling the Past: Analyze a primary source to discover how daily routines and objects reveal the power and responsibilities of Ghanaian monarchs.
• A Journey Through Time: Trace the rise and fall of Ghana's kings and queens through a captivating timeline, understanding how events like the Battle of Beth Koufo shaped the kingdom's destiny.

Ignite your students' curiosity with:

• Multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer questions that test comprehension and critical thinking skills.
• A captivating primary source that brings history to life.
• Engaging short answer prompts that encourage research, analysis, and discussion.

Perfect for:

• Social studies and history lessons on Ancient Africa.
• Developing reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.
• Fostering curiosity and a love of learning about diverse cultures.

Ready to unlock the secrets of Ancient Ghana's royalty? Download this exciting worksheet and watch your students become history detectives, critical thinkers, and captivated explorers of the past!

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the daily lives and responsibilities of ancient Ghanaian rulers.
• Evaluate the role of griots in preserving history and shaping cultural identity.
• Understand the significance of key events in Ghana's history.
• Develop critical thinking skills through source analysis, inference, and problem-solving.

Common Core Standards Alignment:

• RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a historical text.
• RH.6-8.3: Analyze how a primary source reveals the historical context of a particular event.
• RH.6-8.7: Integrate information from various sources to answer questions about a particular historical period.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.7: Analyze various features of text, including figurative language, word choice, and tone.

Journey beyond the dazzling gold mines and shimmering trade routes to discover the vibrant heartbeat of ancient Ghana! This engaging reading comprehension and activity-packed worksheet takes your students on a captivating exploration of daily life in this powerful West African kingdom. From majestic palaces to humble villages, they'll unravel the customs, traditions, and fascinating stories that painted the tapestry of everyday life for Ghanians of all walks.

Unmask the Wonders Within:

• Uncover Diverse Architecture: Explore the stark contrast between the awe-inspiring "Golden House" of kings and the cozy thatched-roof huts of villagers, understanding how architecture reflected social hierarchy.
• Unravel the Secrets of Fashion: Discover how vibrant garments woven from imported silk and adorned with gold defined elite status, while simpler cotton attire woven by local hands clothed the commoners.
• Savor a Culinary Symphony: Taste the diverse flavors of Ghana through rich royal dishes infused with exotic spices and the wholesome meals of farmers and artisans, appreciating the shared importance of food.
• Connect with Ancestral Whispers: Delve into the rich spiritual beliefs that permeated every aspect of life, understanding the reverence for ancestral spirits and how religion shaped cultural practices.

Engage Your Students with:

• Interactive Comprehension Questions: Stimulate critical thinking through multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer formats.
• Primary Source Analysis: Decipher historical accounts like Al-Bakri's description of the royal palace, drawing insightful conclusions about society and values.
• Discussion Prompts: Spark lively classroom conversations about social hierarchy, cultural expressions, and the enduring legacy of ancient Ghana.

Perfect for:

• Social studies and history lessons on Ancient Africa.
• Developing reading comprehension, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Integrating primary sources into historical learning.
• Fostering creativity, cultural awareness, and appreciation for diverse lifestyles.

Ready to transport your students to a vibrant, dynamic Ghana where everyday life hummed with unique charm? Download this exciting worksheet and watch them transform into history detectives, cultural explorers, and creative collaborators!

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the daily lives of people in different social classes in ancient Ghana.
• Evaluate the significance of architecture, fashion, food, and religion in shaping Ghanaian culture.
• Develop critical thinking skills through source analysis, inference, and problem-solving.
• Foster creativity and cultural awareness through hands-on activities and discussions.
• Appreciate the importance of understanding diverse lifestyles and historical contexts.

Common Core Standards Alignment:

• RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a historical text.
• RH.6-8.3: Analyze how a primary source reveals the historical context of a particular event.
• RH.6-8.7: Integrate information from various sources to answer questions about a particular historical period.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.7: Analyze various features of text, including figurative language, word choice, and tone.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.2: Write informative texts, explaining how a particular historical event unfolded

Step away from the gold mines and dive into the vibrant heart of ancient Ghana! This engaging reading comprehension and hands-on activity worksheet transports your students to a sun-drenched world where children's laughter echoes, artisans weave magic with their hands, and festivals burst with colorful celebrations.

Explore Beyond the Surface:

• Games of Wit & Agility: Witness children strategize in the bean-clicking game of Mancala, leap and dodge in the playful tag game "Ampe," and discover how these simple pastimes were more than just entertainment.
• Masters of Craft: Get inspired by skilled Ghanaian goldsmiths, weavers, and potters who transformed raw materials into stunning jewelry, tapestries, and pottery, each piece a treasure trove of cultural heritage.
• Craft Your Own Legacy: Unleash your inner artist with a fun clay pendant activity inspired by Ghanaian pottery methods. Learn to shape the clay, decorate with vibrant paints, and wear your creation with pride!
• Celebrations of Life: Feel the pulse of Ghana's joyful festivals, where the Yam Festival erupts in a symphony of drumming, dancing, and storytelling, connecting the present to the past and honoring ancestral spirits.

Engage Your Students with:

• Captivating text and primary source analysis for deeper understanding of Ghanaian culture.
• Interactive comprehension questions in multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer formats.
• A hands-on clay pendant activity to spark creativity and connect with Ghanaian traditions.
• Vivid vocabulary and imagery to bring ancient Ghana to life.

Perfect for:

• Social studies and history lessons on Ancient Africa.
• Developing reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.
• Fostering creativity and hands-on learning experiences.
• Integrating cultural awareness and historical appreciation.

Ready to transport your classroom to a vibrant, playful, and historically rich Ghana? Download this exciting worksheet and watch your students become explorers, artists, and celebrants of ancient African culture!

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the diverse aspects of life in ancient Ghana beyond its famous gold trade.
• Understand the significance of traditional games, crafts, and festivals in Ghanaian culture.
• Develop critical thinking skills through source analysis, inference, and problem-solving.
• Foster creativity and hands-on learning through artistic activities.

Common Core Standards Alignment:

• RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a historical text.
• RH.6-8.3: Analyze how a primary source reveals the historical context of a particular event.
• RH.6-8.7: Integrate information from various sources to answer questions about a particular historical period.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.7: Analyze various features of text, including figurative language, word choice, and tone.
• VA.K-12.2: Create a work of art based on observation

Embark on a captivating journey through time and uncover the forgotten secrets of ancient Ghana! This comprehensive reading comprehension and activity-packed worksheet whisks your students away to a land of gleaming gold, whispering ruins, and untold stories. From exquisite jewelry adorning Ashanti royalty to the ironclad warriors who guarded trade routes, Ghana's legacy lives on in whispers carried by the wind.

Unravel the Tapestry of History:

• Golden Whispers: Discover the secrets etched in artifacts like the Golden Beads of Asantemanso and terracotta figurines, understanding the lives and rituals of a vanished civilization.
• Guardians of Gold: Meet the fierce warriors who defended Ghana's prosperity, from spearmen of the Ghana Empire to Ashanti fighters, and analyze their impact on shaping the kingdom's history.
• Djenné-Djenno: City of Whispers: Explore the lost metropolis predating Timbuktu, unveiling its advanced irrigation systems, thriving iron industry, and evidence of long-distance trade that stretched across the savanna.
• Beyond Battlefield Glory: Challenge stereotypes and uncover Ghana's intellectual strength through the ruins of universities like Sankore and references to books on medicine, astronomy, and mathematics.

Engage Your Students with:

• Interactive Comprehension Questions: Dive deeper with multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer formats, sparking critical thinking and discussion.
• Primary Source Analysis: Decipher historical accounts like Al-Idrisi and Leo Africanus, drawing insightful conclusions about Ghanaian warriors, intellectual culture, and society.
• Map the Lost City: Chart the location of Djenné-Djenno and visualize its trade routes, gaining a spatial understanding of ancient Ghana's reach.
• Creative Explorations: Design a warrior shield inspired by ancient Ghana, write a poem from the perspective of an archaeologist uncovering a lost treasure, or debate the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

Perfect for:

• Social studies and history lessons on Ancient Africa.
• Developing reading comprehension, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Integrating primary sources and historical accounts into learning.
• Fostering creativity, historical empathy, and cultural awareness.

Ready to transport your students to the vibrant world of ancient Ghana? Download this captivating worksheet and watch them transform into history detectives, treasure hunters, and insightful storytellers!

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze various aspects of ancient Ghanaian society, including social classes, trade networks, and intellectual pursuits.
• Evaluate the significance of archaeological discoveries and primary sources in reconstructing historical narratives.
• Develop critical thinking skills through source analysis, inference, and problem-solving.
• Foster awareness of diverse perspectives and challenge stereotypical depictions of African history and cultures.
• Appreciate the importance of preserving cultural heritage and safeguarding historical sites.

Common Core Standards Alignment:

• RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a historical text.
• RH.6-8.3: Analyze how a primary source reveals the historical context of a particular event.
• RH.6-8.7: Integrate information from various sources to answer questions about a particular historical period.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.7: Analyze various features of text, including figurative language, word choice, and tone.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.2: Write informative texts, explaining how a particular historical event unfolded.

By weaving a captivating narrative with interactive activities and thought-provoking discussions, this worksheet promises to bring the lost treasures and forgotten stories of ancient Ghana to life for your students!

Embark on a captivating journey through time and uncover the forgotten secrets of ancient Ghana! This comprehensive reading comprehension and activity-packed worksheet whisks your students away to a land of gleaming gold, whispering ruins, and untold stories. From exquisite jewelry adorning Ashanti royalty to the ironclad warriors who guarded trade routes, Ghana's legacy lives on in whispers carried by the wind.

Unravel the Tapestry of History:

• Golden Whispers: Discover the secrets etched in artifacts like the Golden Beads of Asantemanso and terracotta figurines, understanding the lives and rituals of a vanished civilization.
• Guardians of Gold: Meet the fierce warriors who defended Ghana's prosperity, from spearmen of the Ghana Empire to Ashanti fighters, and analyze their impact on shaping the kingdom's history.
• Djenné-Djenno: City of Whispers: Explore the lost metropolis predating Timbuktu, unveiling its advanced irrigation systems, thriving iron industry, and evidence of long-distance trade that stretched across the savanna.
• Beyond Battlefield Glory: Challenge stereotypes and uncover Ghana's intellectual strength through the ruins of universities like Sankore and references to books on medicine, astronomy, and mathematics.

Engage Your Students with:

• Interactive Comprehension Questions: Dive deeper with multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer formats, sparking critical thinking and discussion.
• Primary Source Analysis: Decipher historical accounts like Al-Idrisi and Leo Africanus, drawing insightful conclusions about Ghanaian warriors, intellectual culture, and society.

Perfect for:

• Social studies and history lessons on Ancient Africa.
• Developing reading comprehension, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Integrating primary sources and historical accounts into learning.
• Fostering creativity, historical empathy, and cultural awareness.

Ready to transport your students to the vibrant world of ancient Ghana? Download this captivating worksheet and watch them transform into history detectives, treasure hunters, and insightful storytellers!

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze various aspects of ancient Ghanaian society, including social classes, trade networks, and intellectual pursuits.
• Evaluate the significance of archaeological discoveries and primary sources in reconstructing historical narratives.
• Develop critical thinking skills through source analysis, inference, and problem-solving.
• Foster awareness of diverse perspectives and challenge stereotypical depictions of African history and cultures.
• Appreciate the importance of preserving cultural heritage and safeguarding historical sites.

Common Core Standards Alignment:

• RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a historical text.
• RH.6-8.3: Analyze how a primary source reveals the historical context of a particular event.
• RH.6-8.7: Integrate information from various sources to answer questions about a particular historical period.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.7: Analyze various features of text, including figurative language, word choice, and tone.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.2: Write informative texts, explaining how a particular historical event unfolded.

By weaving a captivating narrative with interactive activities and thought-provoking discussions, this worksheet promises to bring the lost treasures and forgotten stories of ancient Ghana to life for your students!

Unravel the fascinating stories of King Tenkamenin and Queen Amina, the golden monarchs who shaped the destiny of Ancient Ghana! This engaging reading comprehension and critical thinking worksheet transports your students to a world of shimmering wealth, fierce warriors, and shrewd leadership. Beyond the legendary gold trade, they'll discover the strategies, talents, and challenges that defined these iconic rulers and cemented Ghana's place in history.

Dive into a Realm of Power and Legacy:

• Meet Tenkamenin, the Architect of Prosperity: Witness his cunning economic reforms, strategic trade alliances, and agricultural innovations that turned Ghana into a formidable empire.
• Unearth the Fierce Warrior Queen, Amina: Explore her unparalleled military prowess, territorial expansion, and cultural influence that defied expectations in a male-dominated world.
• Primary Sources Bring History to Life: Analyze captivating excerpts from historical accounts, deciphering clues about leadership styles, societal values, and the kingdom's economic might.

Engage Your Students with:

• Interactive Comprehension Questions: Stimulate critical thinking through multiple choice, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer formats.
• Primary Source Analysis: Hone interpretation skills by deciphering historical evidence and drawing insightful conclusions.
• Comparative Thinking: Analyze leadership styles, challenges, and achievements of both Tenkamenin and Amina.
• Discussion Prompts: Foster vibrant classroom conversations about themes like power, gender, and legacy building.

Perfect for:

• Social studies and history lessons on Ancient Africa.
• Developing reading comprehension, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Integrating primary sources into historical learning.
• Sparking discussions about leadership, gender roles, and societal dynamics.

Ready to take your students on a captivating journey through the reigns of Tenkamenin and Amina? Download this enriching worksheet and watch them transform into history detectives, critical thinkers, and engaged storytellers!

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the leadership styles, economic and military strategies, and cultural impact of King Tenkamenin and Queen Amina.
• Evaluate the significance of primary sources in understanding historical events and figures.
• Develop critical thinking skills through source analysis, inference, and problem-solving.
• Compare and contrast different leadership approaches and their outcomes.
• Foster discussions about gender roles, societal expectations, and overcoming challenges.

Common Core Standards Alignment:

• RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a historical text.
• RH.6-8.3: Analyze how a primary source reveals the historical context of a particular event.
• RH.6-8.7: Integrate information from various sources to answer questions about a particular historical period.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.7: Analyze various features of text, including figurative language, word choice, and tone.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.6-8.2: Write informative texts, explaining how a particular historical event unfolded.

History, patterns, repetition, and slang make Scat writing fun and educational for students. Learn about the history and great artists of the genre of Blues and Jazz then write Scat and perform for peers! This 18 page presentation uses: History and culture of Blues and Jazz Patterns/Repetition Slang Song Lyrics Rhythm and Rhyme Blues and Jazz Greats focusing on Ray Charles Sing-along example Writing process Peer reviewing/workshopping Overview of the Blues and Jazz era Elements of Blues and Jazz Research component Critical Thinking activities Extra Resources Lesson Plan Learning about Jazz and Blues, its history and culture, and patterns and rhythms will get students up and moving with Scat. Fun, interactive, and educational with links and visuals for all learning styles. Be sure to share and perform your Scat Blues and Jazz songs!

Embark on an unforgettable expedition through the sprawling savannas of Africa! This interactive virtual safari field trip is designed to captivate students of all ages, transporting them directly into the heart of a thriving ecosystem teeming with incredible wildlife.

Witness the Majesty of Africa Up Close:

• Come face-to-face with iconic animals like majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, and powerful lions, all in their natural habitat.
• Immerse yourself in stunning visuals that capture the breathtaking beauty of the African savanna.
• Learn fascinating facts about the diverse range of creatures that call this land home.

Engage Your Mind and Spark Curiosity:

• Our expert commentary provides insightful information about animal behavior, adaptations, and the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
• Interactive elements like follow-up questions will test your students' knowledge and solidify their understanding of African wildlife.
• Explore themes of conservation and inspire a passion for protecting these precious animals and their environment.

The Benefits of a Virtual Safari Field Trip:

• Safe and Accessible: Experience the wonders of Africa without leaving the classroom (or living room!).
• Cost-Effective: Eliminate the travel expenses of a traditional field trip.
• Engaging and Interactive: Keep students captivated with a dynamic learning experience.
• Curriculum-Aligned: Complements science lessons about animals, habitats, and ecosystems.
• Memorable and Fun: Foster a lifelong love of learning and appreciation for the natural world.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity! Book your virtual safari field trip adventure today and take your students on a journey they'll never forget!

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Celebrate Black History Month with this exciting and educational card matching game! Challenge your students' knowledge of African American leaders as they match their names with their iconic faces. Will your students be able to guess the name of the African American leader? This game is not only fun but also encourages important discussions about the accomplishments and contributions of these leaders. It's a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about the inspiring figures who have paved the way for equality and progress.

With vibrant and engaging illustrations, this Black History Month card matching game is a must-have addition to your classroom activities. Let your students immerse themselves in a journey through history while honing their memory skills. Get ready for an exciting and enlightening experience that celebrates black leaders and their invaluable impact on society!