African Safari

How It Works:  African Safari is a multicultural unit that explores the splendor and beauty of Africa .  Students will embark on a virtual safari of the African continent as an introduction to the people, animals, and geography of this vast continent rich in history and tradition.  Using new technologies, students will research and create multimedia presentations representing all aspects of life on the African continent. This unit incorporates hands-on and project-based lessons to enhance student learning and critical thinking skills.  "Karibu! To Africa ."

Standards: 

Social Science:

  • Define the cultural characteristics of a region; e.g.; language, traditions/customs, art, music, food.  

  • Research a particular tribe and explain their traditional ways of living and how they are different from your customs.

  • Explain how African mask represents and are important symbols of African culture.

  • Gain an appreciation for Swahili as a language spoken in many parts of Africa .

  • Identify and label the countries of Africa .

  • Identify the major geographic characteristics of Africa . Identify and label the major landforms and waters of Africa

Estimated Class Periods To Complete:  10 or more

Software Materials Used:  Digital camera, scanner, color printer, internet connection, Paintbrush, Kids Pix, Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Publisher, Print Shop, art supplies, maps, globes.

Keywords:  mask, Africa , endangered species, Swahili, continent, topography, culture, customs, conservation

Students:  This project is designed for 6th grade geography students, but can be modified for lower grades.

Overall:  The intent of this project is to provide an opportunity for students to gain an appreciation for the different cultures that inhabit the Earth by focusing on the people of Africa .  Africa is a continent rich in traditions and history, and provides an excellent beginning for multicultural studies.  As Africa is diverse, so are our schools and communities. This unit bridges the physical walls that divide the cultures of the world and opens the eyes of students to the customs and traditions of the people of Africa .  

Through the use of new technologies, student can experience first-hand life in the vast and diverse continent of Africa.  This project integrates multimedia to both captivate and enhance the learning of students.  Students are engaged in a variety of tasks that are collaborating, motivating, and meaningful. 

Tips:  

  • Create a checklist of all materials.

  • Bookmark all Internet sites.

About the Teacher:  Morris Gil is in his 9th year in Miami Dade County Public Schools. He is the Technology Resource Teacher at Fienberg Fisher Elementary.  He is responsible for all the technology training and management of the school-wide network. He has been a Middle School Social Studies Teacher and Team Leader.  He has work in the private sector as a Training Specialist in Educational Technology.  He holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership/School Administration. 

Subjects:  Geography and Social Studies

Grade Levels:  6

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