Teaching Trunks
Africa : One Continent, Many Worlds
Urban and Rural

An extensive collection of cultural artifacts, the Africa Teaching Trunks provide a glimpse into the rich diversity of the African continent. The trunks include samples of music, folk art, jewelry and other objects, all representative of different areas and cultures in Africa. Lesson plans encourage students to learn about the physical make-up of the continent and apply the information to discussions about how the land is reflected in the various cultures of the people. The artifacts are also a good way to focus on a discussion of the meaning behind folk art, and its significance to the people and culture behind them.

Inventory

Educator's Notebook
With background notes and classroom activities

Books

• Hyena and the Moon, Stories to Tell from Kenya by Heather McNeil
• Mcheshi Goes to the Market
• Mcheshi Goes to the Game Park
• Elephant Families, by Arthur Dorros
• Count Your Way through Africa, by Jim Haskins

Posters

• The Essential Gourd, Northeastern Nigeria
• Woman of Ogaden, Ethiopia

Videotape

• African Story Magic, by Family Home Entertainment (27 minutes)

Audiotapes

• Traditional Music of East Africa
• Mbira Dreams, Trance music of Zimbabwe

Musical Instruments

• Shakaree (large beaded gourd)
• Thumb Piano
• Revolving Drum

Artifacts

• African Hut (case)
• Kenyan Bag
• Beer Basket
• Zulu Beaded Necklace
• Ndebele Doll
• Turkana Doll (case)
• Calabah Container (gourd)
• Zairian Mask
• Carved Ebony Comb
• Kanga Cloth
• Traditional Stool
• Ankle Bells
• Mock Elephant Hair Bracelet
• Mud Cloth