TITLE The Akanof Ghana. An ' Instructional Unit for Fourth

'This teaching guide presents objectives, resources, and evaluatitn tititeria for.teaching pupils in fourth grade soci!el studies atid fine arts classes about kfrica, and particularly the Akan ethhic group in Africa. This unit was developed.at an intetdisciplirary surdmer workshop-for teachers.on African culture.-The Major 'cbjective is to help,students.accept the reality.of cultures Cther than'their own. Specifit obleCtives include that stMpnts will.te;able to identify stereotypes, learn geographic facts. about. Africar'retogni2.e similarities.and.differences between African and American families, and learn tc appreciate the cultureof the Akan'people. The guide describes the Akan nation which- consists of approximately five, milliOn people and actounts for approximately one-half-of the.p.opulation.of Ghana. The Akan. °people speak nearly 20 distinct languaqesis, live in'tural communities, andare noted for their intricate and excluisite art forms, particularly stulpture,.architecture, textiles, music, and dance. Lesson plans are.presented tor nite.tOpics.including debunking inyt,hs about Africa and Africans,.-fhempecgraphy of Ghaha, lamily and,00mmunity life among.the Akans,.farilng, And African culture. Students are.invOloyed in a variety of ettivities ircluding simulating lfrican ceremonies, playing African music, and working in various.Akan art media including tie dye and Akinkra.cloth. For each,topic, information is presented on,objectivese.materials and-time reaulredu aotivIrties, and bibliography. (DB)-,(7 f'*