Smithsonian Institution
Braiding Rhythms: The Role of Bell Patterns in West African and Afro-Caribbean Music
Africans transported to the Caribbean as part of the transatlantic slave trade brought with them a rich tradition of music and dance. Four lessons teach young musicians the rumba clave rhythm, cascara rhythm, and the 6/8 bell patterns...
Curated OER
Trekking to Timbuktu: Trade in West Africa (Lesson 2)
Middle schoolers examine the importance of trade in West Africa. Using a virtual time capsule, they travel back to ancient times and travel along with a caravan. They answer specific questions related to the journey and items they are...
Curated OER
How Did You Get Here?
Students create a picture/poster or write a letter demonstrating their knowledge of why slavery was wrong. They describe what they think the travel was like for the Africans coming to America.
Curated OER
Sunken Slave Ship
Students imagine they are archaeologists who are looking for treasure under the sand or sea. They work in teams to create the story and site of a shipwreck in a tub or aquarium filled with sand and water.
Curated OER
The Great Lighthouse at Alexandria
Students read and research about Alexandria's Great Lighthouse. In this Greek architecture lesson, students create a timeline of events in Alexandria, and design a lighthouse. Students research lighthouses online and write a report.