Fairy tales are great stories for helping young people work out complicated moral issues in a make-believe context. Found in countries all around the world, the same story plays out in different contexts. Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters is a "Cinderella" story from Africa in which kindness...
Junkanoo is a Bahamian Festival that takes place in December. The festival was started by slaves who were restoring some of their native customs that they left behind in Africa. Junkanoo is a nice example of artistic expression communicating aspects of a...
Learners develop an understanding of the seven principles of Kwanzaa through artistic applications. They are challenged to apply the principles to their everyday lives in a way that enhances the communities to which they belong.
This lesson introduces the origin and purpose of Kwanzaa. Young people make a kinara, or candle holder, to use for the rest of the unit as they learn about the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
Sometimes it is wise to follow the advice of others and at other times it will only bring disaster. This lesson examines stories from South Africa, Morocco, and Nigeria and character traits valued in those cultures.
The featured folktales explore themes of helping people make judgments of integrity in different situations.
Learners read a brief description of the tough choice Frederik de Klerk faced as a leader in South Africa. They look at the strength needed to act with integrity when the pressure tells us to conform.
Learners explore stories about a hero, Nelson Mandela, whose actions changed the course of history.
Students read an African version of the Cinderella story so that they can compare versions and increase their sense of story.
Based on researched information, participants write a bio-poem about a philanthropist.