Carolyn C. Smith
The Geography of Africa
Objectives
The students will
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1. identify the regions of Africa.
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2. identify the important physical features of Africa.
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3. name some important resources found in Africa.
Material Needed
Wall map of Africa, student outline maps of Africa, colored pencils
Vocabulary
region, political map, physical map, waterways, straits, savanna, velds, plateau, tropical, desert, drought, oasis
Brainstorming Questions:
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1. What five parts can any substance or area be divided into?
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2. Can the Sahara Desert be a dividing point of Africa? What does it divide?
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3. What do you think the land of Africa is like?
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4. What are the main rivers of Africa?
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5. Why do you think the rivers would be of great importance to the people of Africa?
Procedures
Introduce the vocabulary above. Tell the students that there is evidence that all of the continents of the world used to be joined together. Using a wall map of the world, point out how each of the continents seem to be a giant puzzle piece. Focus on the point that although Africa is the second largest continent, it only has about 10% of the world’s population. (500 million People) Also point out that from time to time, some parts of Africa are plagued by severe drought which causes much suffering for the people and animals. Make sure the students are aware that the equator runs through Africa which contributes to the hot temperatures of the region. Indicate to the students that there is an abundant supply of resources in Africa. Among these resources are diamonds, gold, cobalt, and ivory.
Related Activities
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1. Have the students to use their desk outline map to label the five regions and major waterways of Africa. (Use a color code to identify each region.)
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2. Have the students to research and identify where the following minerals are in abundance in Africa. (gold, diamonds, and silver) Use color codes to identify them.
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3. Start an African Culture Center in the class.