History - Junior Secondary 2 - The Igbo People

TERM: 1^ST TERM

WEEK: 5 and 6

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 2

AGE: 13 years

DURATION: 40 minutes

DATE:

SUBJECT: History

TOPIC: The Igbo People

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to

1. ) Locate the Igbo people on the map
2. ) Discuss the origin of the Igbo people
3. ) Describe the socio-political structure of the Igbo people
4. ) State the economic activities of the Igbo people

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, story-telling, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: recommended history textbooks for Junior Secondary School 2

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

WEEK 5

NOTE.

THE IGBO PEOPLE

The Igbo people primarily inhabit the southeastern region of Nigeria. Their territory includes states such as Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo, and Abia. Major cities in Igbo land include Enugu, Onitsha, Owerri, and Nsukka. The area is characterized by a rich cultural landscape and is bordered by the Niger River to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.

Origin of the Igbo People

The origins of the Igbo people are complex and rooted in oral traditions and historical narratives. They are believed to have settled in their current region thousands of years ago. According to oral history, the Igbo people trace their ancestry back to a common ancestor known as Eri, who is said to have come from the Middle East and settled in the region. The Igbo have a rich cultural heritage and have historically engaged in trade and agriculture, which contributed to their social and economic development.

EVALUATION:   

1. Where do the Igbo people primarily live in Nigeria, and how does this location affect their daily lives?
2. What are some major cities in Igbo land, and what role do they play in the community?
3. According to oral traditions, who is Eri, and why is he significant to the Igbo people?
4. How does the historical migration of the Igbo people influence their cultural practices today?
5. What similarities can be found between the origins of the Igbo people and other ethnic groups in Nigeria?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively

WEEK 6

NOTE

THE IGBO PEOPLE

Socio-Political Structure of the Igbo People

The socio-political structure of the Igbo people is traditionally decentralized, characterized by the following features:

• Council of Elders: Elders are highly respected and play a crucial role in decision-making. They mediate conflicts and provide wisdom and guidance to the community.
• Age Grades: The Igbo society is organized into age grades, which are groups of individuals of similar age who work together for communal goals. This system fosters cooperation and responsibility among members.
• Town Assemblies: Local governance is carried out through town assemblies where community members gather to discuss issues, make decisions, and vote on important matters.
• Traditional Rulers: While the Igbo are generally less hierarchical than some other ethnic groups, some communities have traditional rulers (known as Obi or Igwe) who serve ceremonial roles and

Economic Activities of the Igbo People

The economic activities of the Igbo people are diverse and primarily agrarian:

• Agriculture: The Igbo are known for their farming practices, cultivating crops such as yams, cassava, maize, rice, and vegetables. Agriculture is the backbone of their economy and provides food for families.
• Trade and Commerce: The Igbo are renowned traders and have historically engaged in long-distance trade. Markets play a vital role in their economy, with local and regional trading activities.
• Craftsmanship: Many Igbo people are skilled artisans, producing traditional crafts, including weaving, pottery, and wood carving. These crafts contribute to their cultural heritage and economic livelihood.
• Small-Scale Industries: In recent years, the Igbo have also engaged in small-scale industries, including manufacturing, services, and entrepreneurship, contributing to economic growth and development in their communities.

EVALUATION:   

1. How do the councils of elders function within the Igbo community, and why are they important?
2. What is the role of age grades in Igbo society, and how do they contribute to community responsibilities?
3. How do town assemblies empower community members to participate in governance?
4. What types of crops do the Igbo people grow, and how does agriculture support their economy?
5. In what ways does the Igbo people's involvement in trade enhance their cultural identity and economic growth?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively