Felicia S. Fountain
Through work in this unit, students should come away with connections between societies—namely the United States and South Africa. This unit was designed to expand the knowledge of students about the rich history of Africa, which is often not taught in depth or glossed over. Usually the focus of units on Africa stay centered on ancient Egypt, its pharaohs and rich natural resources. Time to give in-depth instruction is missing and the results are ill-prepared history / Social Studies students. Designed to allow students to view or learn about the country that they live in and relate it to the experiences of those who lived on another continent. It is the hope that students will not see the history of their country or Africa (South Africa) as being isolated or totally foreign. While the languages that we speak in society or throughout the world may be different, many people have or have had similar experiences—some of which occur today. This unit allow opportunities for extended learning that is crucial to understanding African history beyond learning about the Egyptian culture, ancient hieroglyphics and the Nile River. Learners will also analyze the development of “peoples,” systemic racism and the influences of government and society on its people. Most importantly, this unit will allow for an in-depth study of Apartheid in South Africa through a careful study of women in the Anti-Apartheid and Civil Rights Movements.
(Developed for Social Studies, grades 6-8; recommended for Social Studies, grade 5; and for World History, African American Studies, and History of Africa, grades 9-12)