print or online resources for African symbols (optional)
Lesson Plan
Ask students whether they know the meaning of the word proverb. Tell students that a proverb is a short saying with a message that teaches a lesson. Tell students that the languages of Africa are rich in proverbs. Explain that African proverbs express the wisdom of the African people and are a key to understanding the African way of life.
Arrange students into pairs. Ask each pair to choose a proverb (see list below) and follow these directions to make a Proverbial Picture Page:
Pick a proverb from the list.
Write the proverb on the bottom half of a sheet of construction paper.
Write the proverb's meaning beneath the proverb.
On the top half of the construction paper, draw a picture to illustrate the proverb.
Decorate the page with African symbols found in print resources or at Web sites such as African Symbols and the University of Michigan's The Diaspora.
When students have completed their Proverbial Picture Page, set aside a time so they can share their work. Then post the Proverbial Pictures on a bulletin board. You might make the pictures part of a Black History Month exhibit.
Extension activity: Challenge students to write a proverb of their own that gives good advice. Then have them illustrate the proverb and tell what it means.
Additional Proverb Resources
African Proverbs, by David Abdulai
African Proverbs, by Jonathan Musere
African Symbols, Proverbs and Myths, by Ralphael O. Madu
Collection of African Proverbs, by Malachi McCormick
African Love Poems and Proverbs, by Wolf and Charlotte Leslau
After students have completed their Proverbial Picture Page, you can assess them using various criteria, including demonstrated understanding of the proverb, creativity in illustrating the proverb, neatness, etc.
Submitted By
Doris Metcalf, recently retired teacher of gifted students, Florence City Schools, Florence, Alabama
