Lesson 1.5-1.6 Learning Packet (PDF) — WEST AFRICAN MEDIEVAL EMPIRES and WEST AFRICAN CULTURES & TRADITIONS

**NOTE: This worksheet covers content from BOTH Lesson 1.5 (West African Empires) and Lesson 1.6 (West African Culture & Traditions)

This double-topic worksheet packet helps students explore the rise of powerful West African empires and the vibrant cultural and religious traditions that shaped the region for centuries. This worksheet packet is designed for AP African American Studies Unit 1 — Topics 1.5 and 1.6, helping students build foundational historical knowledge about Ghana, Mali, Benin, and Songhai as well as griots, oral traditions, and West African traditions of learning.

📝 What’s Included:

📄 19-Page Printable worksheet packet (PDF)
🖥️ Link to Editable version (Google Doc)
🏛️ Lesson 1.5 — West African Empires: Ghana, Mali, and Songhai
🧠 Lesson 1.6 — Cultural & Religious Traditions: Timbuktu, Griots, Kinship, Yoruba Cosmology
📚 Reading Sections + key concept analysis
🔍 Primary & secondary source excerpts
🧠 Short-answer response questions with space for writing

📚 Students Will Learn About:

The rise and fall of the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai empires
Mansa Musa’s hajj and the global influence of West African wealth
The role of griots and oral storytelling in preserving African history
The introduction, spread, and adaptation of Islam in West Africa
The significance of Timbuktu as a cultural and educational center

🎯 Perfect For:

✔ AP African American Studies (Unit 1 — Topics 1.5 & 1.6)
✔ 9th-12th World History, African History, and Ethnic Studies classes
✔ Black History Month or African Heritage lessons
✔ Classwork, homework and/or sub plans
✔ Introductory lessons on African cultural legacies

📎 Formats:

📄 Ready-to-print PDF
🔗 Includes editable Google Slide Deck
🧠 Class-ready in 15 minutes or less

✅ Download once. Use every year.

Editable + printable. Built for teachers, homeschoolers, and learners seeking an accurate foundation in African history

📄 LESSON 1.5-16 PACKET PREVIEW:

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