Pupils are introduced to the wildlife and eco-system of Africa's biggest grassland - The Savannah through the fable of Orisun the beautiful female Leopard of the Savannah grassland.
A map of Africa is used to, show children where the Savannah belt can be found.
SAVANNAH CAT
Pupils are asked what type of wild animals they would expect to find in an African grassland. Pupils responded accurately but several often believe they can find Tigers in Africa. It is necessary to explain to pupils that Africa essentially has three members of the big cat family germane to it: The Lion, the Cheetah and the Leopard.
The idiosyncratic nature of the gorilla to become reclusive when its life begins to ebb away is highlighted during these sessions. The mysterious clearings of great beauty;often hidden away in Africa's grassland; but known to great apes and a few naturalist who befriend and observe theses apes, is introduced to pupils as Omiadura.(or the waterfall of prayers). The third of Africa's endangered specie feature in this story is the African Elephant.
IMPACT/ACHIEVING OUR AIMS
A whole new world is opened to white and non- white pupils alike. The global dimension is successfully developed for white pupils; whilst non white pupils have their eco-system, cuisine and culture examined in a manner that is interesting and new.
Cultural appreciation and understanding is thus engendered.
Orisun of the Savannah grassland helps children apply categorisation skills in identifying members of the big cat family as they exist in Africa's grassland.
The sessions promotes a clearer understanding of the distribution of some wild animals around the world. e.g. the big cats and the distribution of the Indian /African Elephants.
Pupils knowledge of the culinary culture of West African/North African is extended.
African music being played in the background during the follow up work helps pupils develop a further appreciation for music from other cultures.
Follow up work:
The video Palm wine and Plantains is a valuable resource for introducing children to food from other cultures and the way to prepare such food. Plantain is a member of the banana family, rich in Iron and a good source of fibre.
The book Orisun of the Savannah grassland provides teachers with an opportunity to teach children about Africa's endangered species because two of them are featured in the fable. (The Elephant and the Leopard ) The distribution of big cats round the world can also be look at. The fable also allows a class to talk about the seasons that characterize Africa's Grasslands i.e The wet and the dry seasons. The importance of water for life is also often highlighted by teachers. A pregnant mammal needs water as a matter of necessity; if it is to successfully carry its developing foetus through its gestation period. Pupils are made to realise that man is made up of 80% of Water. Pupils also come to appreciate that humans; cannot survive for more than a forth night without water. That humans; can indeed manage to survive without food for long periods. (This provides an opportunity to look at science and the way the body functions).
The session also provides teachers with an opportunity for expanding pupils creative arts skills. The pencil etched illustrations in the books could be photo copied by teachers and children could embellish them with more trees and wild animals.
Developing Multi-Ethnicity Through The Literacy Hour
TO PURCHASE THE BOOK ORISUN OF THE SAVANNAH GRASSLAND VISIT:http://www.theblackhistorymonth.com
SAVANNAH CAT
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