West and Central Africa: Government and Economy


World Cultures Sub-Saharan Africa West and Central Africa: Government and Economy
In this experience, students first explore the government and economy of the relatively successful West African country of Ghana. Then they learn about the governments and economies of five other West and Central African countries that have faced civil wars and conflicts. Next, students learn the part that blood diamonds have played in those conflicts—and the general problems that result from conflict diamonds. Finally, students write an explanation about how to buy diamonds more ethically.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Teacher Pack

The Pack contains associated resources for the learning experience, typically in the form of articles and videos. There is a teacher Pack (with only teacher information) and a student Pack (which contains only student information). As a teacher, you can toggle between both to see everything.

Here are the teacher pack items for West and Central Africa: Government and Economy:

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Overview

In this experience, students first explore the government and economy of the relatively successful West African country of Ghana. Then they learn about the governments and economies of five other West and Central African countries that have faced civil wars and conflicts. Next, students learn the part that blood diamonds have played in those conflicts—and the general problems that result from conflict diamonds. Finally, students write an explanation about how to buy diamonds more ethically.

Objectives:

  • Describe the governments and economies of several West and Central African countries.
  • Explain the influence of civil war and conflict on the economies of several West and Central African countries, including the role of conflict diamonds.
  • Describe the efforts to combat the practice of conflict diamonds.


In a region that contains 24 separate countries, you will find a wide range of government types and economies. In this experience, you will find out more about the government and economies of several West and Central African countries, particularly those that have experienced ongoing civil war and conflict.

Objectives:

  • Describe the governments and economies of several West and Central African countries.
  • Explain the influence of civil war and conflict on the economies of several West and Central African countries, including the role of conflict diamonds.
  • Describe the efforts to combat the practice of conflict diamonds.


hands raising flags

Waving Ghanaian Flags


Begin this experience by going to Fancy riding a bamboo bike? and scroll down to watch the video Grow Your Own Bike, about an interersting business in the African country of Ghana. 


What did you find surprising in this video?



Answers will vary. Students may not expect to find such an innovative approach in an African country.


Now learn more about Ghana. Read the Economy overview and look at the data.


Describe Ghana’s economy, natural resources, and main exports.

Post your answer

Tell students that Ghana is one of Africa’s wealthiest nations with a fast-growing economy that is based in part on its many natural resources (minerals, oil, and precious stones). It also has a large manufacturing industry that produces cars, ships, and electronics. Agriculture also contributes to the economy through coffee, rice, and especially cocoa. However, falling oil prices and economic mismanagement have had a negative impact in recent years.


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The Complete List of Learning Experiences in Sub-Saharan Africa Unit.
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