Centers Of Ancient Civilization In Nigeria SS3 Nigerian History Lesson Note

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to

1. Describe the features of the early centres of civilization in Nigeria                      
2. Discuss the relationship between these Centers of Ancient Civilization and Other Groups in Nigeria

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: 

• Identification, 
• explanation, 
• questions and answers, 
• demonstration, 
• videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: 

• Videos, 
• loudspeaker, 
• textbook, 
• pictures,

NOTE

EARLY CENTRES OF CIVILIZATION IN NIGERIA

Features of Nok

The Nok civilization, dating back to around 1500 BCE to 200 CE, is known for its terracotta sculptures, particularly the iconic Nok heads. They were skilled ironworkers and practised agriculture, hunting, and fishing as their main occupational pursuits.

Artistic works:  Terracotta sculptures, especially the Nok heads, depicting human figures with intricate hairstyles and facial features

Features of Igbo-Ukwu

Igbo-Ukwu civilization flourished between the 9th and 10th centuries CE, known for its intricate bronze and copper artifacts. Their occupational pursuits included bronze and copper metallurgy, agriculture, and trade.

Artistic works: Intricately designed bronze and copper artifacts, including ceremonial vessels, masks, and jewellery.

Features of Ife Civilization

Ife civilization, dating back to the 12th century CE, is renowned for its naturalistic and highly expressive bronze, terracotta, and stone sculptures. Ife people were skilled artisans, engaged in sculpture, metallurgy, and agriculture.

Artistic works: Naturalistic and lifelike sculptures made from bronze, terracotta, and stone, portraying human figures with elaborate headdresses and facial scarification.

Features of the Benin Civilization

The Benin civilization, originating around the 13th century CE, is famous for its elaborate bronze plaques, sculptures, and ivory carvings. The occupations in Benin included bronze casting, ivory carving, trade, agriculture, and governance.

Artistic works: Elaborate bronze plaques depicting historical events, royal court scenes, and symbolic motifs, along with ivory carvings and brass sculptures.

Relationship between these Centers of Ancient Civilization and Other Groups in Nigeria:

1. These centres of ancient civilization served as hubs of cultural exchange, trade, and interaction with neighbouring communities and ethnic groups.
2. Trade networks facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and artistic techniques, contributing to the cultural diffusion and enrichment of surrounding regions.
3. They often exerted political and cultural influence over neighbouring societies through diplomacy, military conquest, and economic dominance.
4. The artistic and technological achievements of these civilizations inspired and influenced the artistic traditions of other groups in Nigeria and beyond, shaping the broader cultural landscape of the region.

EVALUATION: 

1. Describe the features of the Nok and Benin civilizations.       

1. Identify 5 relationships between these Centers of Ancient Civilization and Other Groups in Nigeria.

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher commends the students positively