Africa's Global Connections

Today we will continue to develop two themes of our Africa unit -- Diversity and Globalization.

In order to do this, we will look at African history and create a timeline. In addition, we will take a look at some modern news events happening in Africa.

First, note that the following abbreviations are used throughout the activity:

• BCE "Before the Common Era" (sometimes also called BC)
• CE "Common Era" (sometimes also called AD)

We will again be looking at maps provided by Michigan State University. Instead of pictures, these maps include historical data. This is meant to provide you with a general background of Africa's history. Next week, we will start to get into more specifics. You will complete today's assignments on loose leaf paper.

Map 1: Ancient African History to the 1400s (10 points)
Click on the following link and listen for instructions:
http://exploringafrica.matrix.msu.edu/teachers/curriculum/m4/activity1.php

The map shows the location of historical events. By clicking on each of the numbers, you can pull up information on what happened, where it happened, and when it happened.

1. You will first use the information on the map to create a timeline as described on the site (5 points).
2. Then, you will create a graphic organizer showing historic connections between Africa and the rest of the world (following the site's example) (5 points).

Map 2: African History from the 1400s to the 1800s (10 points)
Click on the following link and wait for instructions:
http://exploringafrica.matrix.msu.edu/students/curriculum/m4/activity2.php

1. Again, use the information on the map to create a timeline as described on the site (5 points).
2. Then, create a graphic organizer showing historic connections between Africa and the rest of the world (following the site's example) (5 points).

Homework: Study for QUIZ!