As we started studying history in our homeschool, I was disheartened to see how little information was available about Africa for elementary-aged children.
One of the programs we tried did not mention African kingdoms at all until fourth grade. Which meant that the first mention my children would get of African people at all would be in relation to slavery.
That was unacceptable to me.
So we set out on a multi-day African history unit study to discover some of the royal empires of Africa that existed long before the United States and the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade ever existed.
And, along the way, we learned so much that I wanted to share it with others.
Which is how this African Kingdoms printable unit study was born!
This unit, which is geared toward elementary students, is a great way to get to know some of the kingdoms and legendary rulers that reigned in Africa!
Read on to see how to pick up a copy for your kids!
And be sure to check out our list of must-read black history books too!
African Kingdoms! – Printable African History Unit Study
This printable African history unit study is packed with over 60 pages of learning activities about seven African empires, including:
- Egypt
- Nubia
- Ghana & Mali
- Great Zimbabwe
- Songhay
- Asante
- And the Zulu Empire
Each section of the unit includes an easy-to-read history of each empire. Kids will learn about how each empire began and how it grew.
In addition, students will learn about some of the important figures of each empire and their accomplishments.
At the end of each section is a review activity that gives kids a chance to recall what they’ve learned.
There’s also a hands-on activity for each empire to bring learning to life!
At the end, kids can practice locating each empire on a map of Africa to discover where each was located.
This is a great way to add context to the trade practices of each empire, as well as important battles. A full answer key is also included!
Scroll down to get your copy of African Kingdoms! Printable African History Unit Study!
Check out these other history learning ideas for kids!
To get your copy of African Kingdoms! Printable African History Unit Study, visit my Teachers Pay Teachers store or check it out below!
Thank you so much for this! I agree, it’s a tragedy that Africa and African history is portrayed in such a negative light. Resources like these are extremely valuable in countering the ‘doom and gloom’ model of Black History.
Do you have any items or can you suggest any for younger age group? We have a 7 year old and a 5 year old.
Hi! Thanks for the kind words. I’m working on a resource about African history for younger kids, but I do have Black Americans coloring pages that are a perfect fit for younger learners. You can take a look at them here: https://shop.lookwerelearning.com/products/living-color-history-black-history-coloring-pages. Hope this helps!