Lesson plan

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ngP5LzV22pEhD6iV52JXxROa1FqvxTY3h3Yri5LMhPY/edit?usp=sharing 

Shekayla Miller

28 November 2023

Introducing students to the distinctive customs and traditions surrounding childbirth in African culture. Through discussion and activities, students will study topics such as the importance of community during the birthing process, significance of naming ceremonies, and how medicines are used to enhance maternal and infant health. Students will have a greater understanding and recognition for the diversity of cultural practices surrounding childbirth in Africa.

Understand the significance of community involvement in African birth rituals

Discuss the process of traditional African birth

Apply knowledge of African naming rituals and ceremonies in cultural context

Create a comparative analysis of childbirth practices in different African cultures

Read African Twilight

Women are surrounded by midwives and other women to keep them encouraged and healthy during and after birth. 

They believe that gods and ancient spirits come back as future generations.

It is believed that helping the mother will bring blessings to the village.

All women who participate in the process have to be married and experienced with birth.

Women are given medicine and herbs to maintain their strength for both them and the child.

The mother gives birth squatting instead of laying down like American culture.

After birth mother and baby are secluded into separate huts to bond and until bleeding is contained.

After 2 weeks the naming ceremony is held.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWfKP2DUoKY

Naming ceremonies are traditions that announce the birth of a new member of the family. It is believed that the name given to a child will have influence on their personality and the way they go about life.

Names in African culture often tell a story or symbolize a prayer or prophecy

Naming shapes the identity and fosters a sense of belonging among individuals and their ancestors

Video gives incite about the naming process in different African cultures

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzmQCRmq1PA

What are your perceptions about the naming process?

Do you feel spirituality plays a major role in choosing the name of a child?

Do you believe the name that is chosen decides one’s fate in life?

Students will research two African cultures’ birth rituals and then compare and contrast them.

Focus on steps of the process, important people involved, and the cultural significance of each ritual

Students will compose a short essay on their thoughts about preserving cultural heritage and the importance of these rituals

Student will be asked to present a visual project before the class about any African culture’s birth ritual of their choice

Include the history behind the ritual

Can be presented by video, powerpoint, or poster

Library and online research is highly encouraged

Students will attend a field trip to the museum to explore the artifacts and history of African ceremonies and birth.