History - Junior Secondary 2 - Ghana empire - Location of the Ghana Empire

TERM: 3^RD TERM

WEEK: 1 and 2

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 2

AGE: 13 years

DURATION: 40 minutes

DATE:

SUBJECT: History

TOPIC:- Ghana empire - Location of the Ghana Empire

Socio-political structure of the Ghanian people

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

1. ) Discuss the location of the Ghanian empire and the origin of the Ghanian people
2. ) Explain the socio-political structure and economic activities of the Ghanian 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 1

NOTE.

THE GHANIAN EMPIRE

The Ghana Empire, which existed from approximately the 6th to the 13th century, was located in West Africa, primarily in what is now southeastern Mauritania and western Mali. It was strategically situated between the Sahara Desert to the north and the lush regions of the West African savanna, facilitating trade across the trans-Saharan routes. The empire's capital was Kumbi Saleh, a major trading city that became a hub for commerce, particularly in gold and salt.

Origin of the Ghanaian People

The people of the Ghana Empire were known as the Soninke, a subgroup of the Mande-speaking peoples. They are believed to have originated from the region around the Senegal River. The Soninke developed complex social and political structures and were instrumental in establishing the Ghana Empire, which rose to prominence due to its control over the lucrative trade routes connecting the North African Arab traders with the sub-Saharan regions.

EVALUATION:

1. Where was the Ghana Empire located, and how did its geographical position facilitate trade?
2. Who were the primary inhabitants of the Ghana Empire, and what was their significance in establishing the empire?
3. Describe the hierarchical structure of the Ghanaian political system and the roles of its key leaders.
4. How did the council of advisors support the Ghanaian king in governance and decision-making?
5. What impact did the local chiefs have on the administration of the provinces within the Ghana Empire?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively

WEEK 2

NOTE

THE GHANIAN EMPIRE

Socio-Political Structure and Economic Activities of the Ghanaian People

Socio-Political Structure

The socio-political structure of the Ghana Empire was hierarchical and centralized, with a king (known as the "Ghana") at its apex. The structure included:

• The King (Ghana): The ruler held significant power and was regarded as both a political and spiritual leader. The Ghana was supported by a council of advisors made up of nobles and military leaders who assisted in governance and decision-making.
• Nobility and Warriors: Nobles were influential in administration and military affairs, often commanding loyalty from their clans. The military was composed of skilled warriors who protected the empire's borders and enforced the king's authority.
• Local Governance: The empire was divided into provinces, each governed by local chiefs who reported to the king. This system allowed for efficient administration of the diverse populations within the empire.
• Trade Guilds: Merchants and traders formed guilds that regulated trade practices and protected their economic interests, contributing to the stability of the empire.

Economic Activities

The economy of the Ghana Empire was primarily based on trade, agriculture, and resource exploitation.

• Trade: The empire thrived on trans-Saharan trade, exchanging gold, ivory, and slaves for salt, textiles, and other goods from North Africa and the Mediterranean. Gold was particularly abundant in the region, making the Ghana Empire one of the wealthiest states in West Africa.
• Agriculture: The fertile lands surrounding the Niger River allowed the Ghanaians to engage in agriculture, cultivating crops such as millet, sorghum, and rice. This agricultural production supported the population and contributed to trade.
• Animal Husbandry: Livestock, including cattle, goats, and sheep, played a vital role in the economy, serving as a source of food and wealth. Animal husbandry also facilitated trade in livestock.
• Craftsmanship: Skilled artisans produced various goods, including textiles, pottery, and metalwork. These crafts contributed to the local economy and were also traded with neighboring regions.

EVALUATION:   

1. What were the main economic activities that contributed to the wealth of the Ghana Empire?
2. How did trans-Saharan trade impact the economy of the Ghana Empire, and what goods were primarily exchanged?
3. Discuss the role of agriculture in supporting the population and economy of the Ghana Empire.
4. In what ways did craftsmanship and local artisans contribute to the economy of the Ghana Empire?
5. How did the Ghanaian people manage their natural resources to sustain their economy and trade relationships?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively