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Project: African Storytelling Social Studies 8/ROGATE
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"…[I]t is only the story that can continue beyond the war and the warrior. It is the story that outlives the sound of war-drums and the exploits of brave fighters. It is the story...that saves our progeny from blundering like blind beggars into the spikes of the cactus fence. The story is our escort; without it, we are blind. Does the blind man own his escort? No, neither do we the story; rather it is the story that owns us and directs us." --Chinua Achebe, Anthills of the Savannah (1987) Introduction: How do we know about the history of a society which has no written language? Africa has a longstanding tradition of oral history, told and sung by Griots, troubadours who use the art of storytelling and music to share the history of Africa For this project, you will become a Griot, and the story you tell will reflect the research you’ve done on Sub-Saharan African history. The Process: 1. Using the links provided, as well as your own sources, learn about African Griots. Listen to their music. 2. Choose one of the following cultures to research: a. Mali b. Songhai c. Zimbabwe d. Benin e. Kilwa f. Ethiopia g. Kongo h. Ghana 3. Specifically, research the following topics: a. the geography of your kingdom or empire b. the history of your kingdom or empire c. the migration and trade influence on your kingdom or empire d. the traditions (music and art) of your kingdom or empire The Culminating Activity: Once you have completed your research you will create a story about a significant event in the history of your region. The story you create will include elements of the region’s geography, history, migrations and traditions. Your story must reflect the style of an oral tradition. Modify this sample introduction to begin your story: Listen to me, Children of Wood, and hear the great deeds of the past. The words I speak are those of my teachers and her/his teachers before, pure and full of truth. For we are Griots. Centuries of history and learning reside within our minds. Thus we serve our community with the wisdom of history, bringing to life the lessons of the past so that the future may flourish. Listen, then, to the story of Sub-Saharan Africa's past........ Citations: As always, you must cite your sources. They should be submitted on a separate page at the end of your story. This project was inspired by a Webquest at the following address: http://www.iwms.wlwv.k12.or.us/GATESG/Africa_kingdoms/index.htm . |
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