Traces the historical development of the Jerusarema, a traditional dance of the Shona of Zimbabwe, from its origins as a form of military defense to its present role in recreation and ceremony. Describes the Jerusarema, classifies it in relation to other African dance forms, and discusses how it is learned. (KH)

Describes the discovery in Swaziland of the oldest iron mining site known. Before this evidence that it was Africans who discovered iron mining and smelting around 42,000 B.C., it had been believed that the knowledge of iron originated in the Middle East between 550-1500 B.C. (GC)

Offers a new perspective on the novel, "No Longer at Ease," and comments on its sub-themes: the clash of two civilizations, the antipathy between youth and old age, human fallibility, social and moral decadence. In contrast with his earlier novel, Achebe writes topical satire for educated Africans. (LHW)

This resource guide of 40 items presents materials for studying various aspects of African life, culture, and history. The materials selected for the guide range from records and filmstrips to books and can be used by community groups as well as students. The guide is organized into 7 sections that include music, art and architecture, theater,…

This article presents eight letters written by young South Africans which describe what they think United States students should learn about their country. (JDH)

Progress in primary and teacher education in Kano Province since 1968 is traced. Consideration is given to enrollments, repetition and dropping out, costs, Islamic schools, teacher availability, teacher education facilities and staff, and Grade II Examination results. (LBH)

Provides information on the inspiration for Alexis Preller's painting "Mapogga Rondawel," specifically addressing the Ndebele tribe's round, thatched houses called rondawels. Offers ideas for accompanying activities. Includes a reproduction of the painting and examines the painting in detail. (CMK)

This resource provides information on over 30 of Africa's most populous and well-known ethnic groups. The text concisely describes the history, traditions, environment, social structure, religion, and daily lifestyles of these diverse cultures. Each entry opens with a map outlining the area populated by the group and a list of key data regarding…

The exciting period after World War II, when independence movements developed and flourished throughout Africa is the topic of this book, fifth in a series dealing with African culture and intended for secondary level students. Almost all of the selections in the book were written by Africans and come from a variety of sources including…

Provides a brief overview of political and economic developments of the past 25 years in Africa. Maintains this was a period of experimentation with vast differences in the ways in which governments dealt with human and natural problems. (JDH)

Discusses the diverse cultures in Africa, and the effects of colonization by the French, English, and Portuguese. Explores how culture is used for political purposes in emerging African nations and as a tool for rewriting a past misinterpreted by colonial powers. Discusses issues of cultural pluralism in African countries. (JS)

This interdisciplinary unit provides students in grades kindergarten through seventh grade an opportunity to understand diversity through a study of Africa as a diverse continent. The project is designed to provide all elementary students with cultural enrichment by exposing them to African music, art, storytelling, and movement. This project can…

Offers learning activities on South Africa, which help students gain background information on South Africa's culture, history, and geography; examine United States foreign policy toward South Africa; conduct community research on United States involvement with South Africa; confront different life styles of individuals living in South Africa; and…

The educational policy of Sir Frederick Lugard is reviewed. He held the view that education must determine the development of the country and focused on educational problems, thinking they would lead to solutions to other Nigerian problems. (LBH)