In this lesson, students learn about the way trade affects the spread of religion by studying the contributions of Mansa Musa to the culture of West Africa. Students then examine the empire that Mansa Musa led by viewing images related to Mansa Musa’s contributions, viewing a video, and reading an article about Mansa Musa. In an extension of learning, students learn about the annual re-plastering of the Grand Mosque and examine how it reflects Mansa Musa’s impact in West Africa.
Grade(s) | Subject | Time Frame | Duration | Course | Modality |
9th - 12th | Social Studies | 90 Minutes | 1 - 2 Class Periods | World History |
WH.1.4 Evaluate the economic, political, and cultural impact of interregional trade networks.
How does trade contribute to the spread of religion?
Students read an article about the richest people in history.
Students view photographs related to the Mali Empire to draw inferences about Mansa Musa.
Students watch a video and read an article about Mansa Musa, summarizing both on a Paired Text H-Chart.
Students reflect on the causes of the revolution by participating in a discussion.
Students respond to a reflection question about Mansa Musa’s legacy.