Thematic+Ideas


 * 1960’s African American Civil Rights vs. 1960’s Gaining Political Independence** in Botswana. Compare and Contrast the two. Essential Question: What freedoms were achieved? Who gained true freedom?


 * When Elephants Fight**: Establishing the fact that not all countries in Africa are unstable governments. Explore and discuss the stable governments and compare them to countries that are fighting civil wars.


 * Newspaper Politics**: Government structure in Africa compared to the structure in the United states. Use of Media, political groups and forums. Using articles and newspapers comparing and contrasting those resources to those here in the United states and what role they play in society.


 * Self Perception**: Comparing and Contrasting different aspirations, goals, and day to day issues of students in Botswana and students in the US. Probe the students to personally define success.


 * Partners/Buddies**: Possibly establish pen pals (via letters, skype, or email). Create a story, send it to their “buddy” and have them add on, continue the pattern.


 * Mini Dictionary:** Find a word for every letter that relates to Botswana (use powerpoint, pictures, videos, manipulatives, etc to create the dictionary).


 * Politics and Teaching:** Creating awareness of the governments affect on teaching and education. Help them realize what is politically happening both here in Florida, and in Botswana for teachers. How will it affect the students and why is it important for them to care? Create a voice for the students!


 * Cultural Appreciation:** Exploring various aspects of Botswana Culture. Compare and Contrast their culture to ours. What really makes a culture and what is the distinct factors of both Botswana and us as Americans. What do you really associate with as an American citizen (what is our culture).


 * Put together three things/ arts:** Find three things that are happening in community, school, etc. and research what is happening currently. Formulate thoughts, ideas, and solutions for the issues they are noticing. Use your experience as an example for their research.