Differences Between National Symbols and Other Symbols – Civic Education for Primary 3

 

Differences Between National Symbols and Other Symbols

Lesson Plan for Primary 3

Lesson Details

  • Subject: Civic Education
  • Class: Basic 3 / Primary 3
  • Term: Second Term
  • Week: 5
  • Age: 7 – 8 years
  • Topic: Differences Between National Symbols and Other Symbols
  • Sub-topic: Importance and Examples of National Symbols and Other Symbols
  • Duration: 40 minutes

Behavioral Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

  1. Define and explain the meaning of National Symbols.
  2. Explain the meaning of other symbols and how they differ from National Symbols.
  3. Identify and mention at least five National Symbols in Nigeria.
  4. Identify and give examples of other symbols in Nigeria.
  5. State at least four differences between National Symbols and other symbols.

Keywords

  • National Symbols
  • Patriotism
  • Coat of Arms
  • Currency
  • Logo
  • Trademark
  • Emblem

Set Induction

The teacher shows a picture of the Nigerian Flag and asks, “What is this?” Pupils respond, “The Nigerian Flag.” The teacher then shows the logo of a well-known company like Pepsi and asks, “What about this?” Pupils respond with the name of the company. The teacher explains that some symbols represent the whole country (National Symbols), while others represent private organizations or groups.


Entry Behavior

Pupils have previously learned about the National Anthem and National Currency.


Learning Resources and Materials

  • Picture of the Nigerian Flag
  • Picture of the Nigerian Coat of Arms
  • Samples of Nigerian Currency (real or printed)
  • Pictures of company logos (Pepsi, Coca-Cola, schools, churches, etc.)
  • Wall charts displaying National Symbols and Other Symbols

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

The teacher reminds the pupils about the National Anthem and National Currency, explaining that these are part of Nigeria’s National Symbols. The teacher then introduces the concept of other symbols used by schools, businesses, and religious organizations.


Embedded Core Skills

  • Critical Thinking
  • Observation Skills
  • Communication Skills
  • Identification and Recognition

Reference Books

  • Lagos State Scheme of Work
  • Civic Education Textbook for Basic 3
  • Nigerian Constitution (simplified version)

Instructional Materials

  • Digital devices (for displaying images of symbols)
  • Flashcards with pictures of National Symbols and Other Symbols
  • Drawing sheets for pupils to create their own symbols

Content

Definition of National Symbols

National Symbols are special signs or objects that represent a country. They show unity, pride, and patriotism. Every citizen must respect National Symbols.

Examples of National Symbols in Nigeria

  1. The National Flag – Represents Nigeria’s unity.
  2. The National Coat of Arms – Shows Nigeria’s strength and unity.
  3. The National Currency (Naira and Kobo) – Used for trade in Nigeria.
  4. The National Anthem and Pledge – Show loyalty and love for Nigeria.
  5. The National Mace – Represents authority in government.

Definition of Other Symbols

Other symbols are signs or objects used by private groups, businesses, religious organizations, or professional bodies. Unlike National Symbols, they do not represent the entire country but specific organizations.

Examples of Other Symbols in Nigeria

  1. School Logos – Example: Lekki British International School logo.
  2. Religious Logos – Example: The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) logo.
  3. Company Trademarks – Example: The Coca-Cola or Pepsi logo.
  4. Professional Symbols – Example: The Nigerian Bar Association logo.
  5. Traditional Ruler’s Emblem – Example: The staff of authority used by kings.

Differences Between National Symbols and Other Symbols

National Symbols Other Symbols
Used at national events Used at private events or organizations
Represent the whole country Represent a specific group or business
Must be respected by all citizens Only respected by members of the group
Backed by political authority Some may be for religious or business purposes
Promote patriotism and unity Promote brand identity, religion, or profession

Evaluation

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions (Multiple Choice)

  1. National Symbols represent __________.
    a) A company
    b) A country
    c) A school
    d) A church
  2. The Nigerian National Flag is an example of __________.
    a) A school symbol
    b) A religious logo
    c) A National Symbol
    d) A National Symbol
  3. The National Currency of Nigeria is called __________.
    a) Dollar
    b) Naira
    c) Pound
    d) Euro
  4. The Nigerian Coat of Arms represents __________.
    a) Unity and Strength
    b) A business organization
    c) A religious group
    d) A school
  5. Which of these is not a National Symbol?
    a) The National Anthem
    b) The Nigerian Flag
    c) The Coca-Cola logo
    d) The National Mace
  6. National Symbols must be __________ by all citizens.
    a) Ignored
    b) Respected
    c) Destroyed
    d) Sold
  7. Which of these is a private symbol?
    a) The Nigerian Coat of Arms
    b) The Nigerian Flag
    c) The RCCG logo
    d) The National Mace
  8. The National Mace is used in __________.
    a) Schools
    b) The Church
    c) The Government
    d) Supermarkets
  9. National Symbols promote __________.
    a) Business growth
    b) Patriotism and unity
    c) Personal interests
    d) Private meetings
  10. The Nigerian Bar Association has a __________.
    a) National Flag
    b) Professional logo
    c) Coat of Arms
    d) National Anthem
  11. The Nigerian Flag has __________ colors.
    a) Green and white
    b) Red and blue
    c) Yellow and black
    d) Green, white, and red
  12. The Nigerian Coat of Arms has __________ horses.
    a) One
    b) Two
    c) Three
    d) Four
  13. School logos help to identify __________.
    a) National Symbols
    b) A business organization
    c) A school
    d) A government office
  14. The Nigerian National Anthem is usually sung at __________.
    a) Private parties
    b) National events
    c) Business meetings
    d) Family gatherings
  15. The staff of authority used by kings is an example of __________.
    a) A National Symbol
    b) A Traditional Symbol
    c) A Religious Symbol
    d) A Trade Symbol

Class Activity Discussion (FAQs and Answers)

  1. What are National Symbols?
    National Symbols are special objects or signs that represent a country and show unity, pride, and patriotism.
  2. Why are National Symbols important?
    They promote unity, pride, and a sense of belonging among citizens.
  3. How many colors does the Nigerian Flag have?
    Two colors: Green and White.
  4. What does the green color on the Nigerian Flag represent?
    It represents Nigeria’s agricultural wealth.
  5. What does the white color on the Nigerian Flag represent?
    It represents peace and unity.
  6. What is the National Currency of Nigeria?
    The Naira (₦).
  7. Who designed the Nigerian National Flag?
    Taiwo Akinkunmi.
  8. What does the National Coat of Arms symbolize?
    It represents strength, unity, and the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.
  9. Where do we see National Symbols being used?
    At schools, government buildings, and official events.
  10. What is an example of a private symbol?
    A school logo, church logo, or company trademark.
  11. Why must we respect National Symbols?
    Because they represent our country and its values.
  12. Who uses the National Mace?
    The National Assembly (lawmakers).
  13. Can a company use a National Symbol for branding?
    No, National Symbols belong to the country and cannot be used for business purposes.
  14. Are religious symbols National Symbols?
    No, religious symbols represent faith and beliefs, not the entire nation.
  15. What happens if someone disrespects a National Symbol?
    It is considered an offense and can lead to punishment.

Presentation Steps

Step 1: Revising the Previous Lesson

The teacher reviews the previous lesson on National Anthem and National Currency by asking pupils questions about their meanings and importance.

Step 2: Introducing the New Topic

The teacher presents pictures of National Symbols and Other Symbols and asks the pupils to describe them.

Step 3: Pupils’ Contributions

Pupils will share their thoughts on the differences between the symbols. The teacher will correct any misconceptions.


Teacher’s and Learners’ Activities

Teacher’s Activities

  1. Shows pictures of National and Other Symbols.
  2. Explains the differences between them.
  3. Asks pupils questions to check understanding.
  4. Guides pupils to draw and identify symbols.

Learners’ Activities

  1. Identify and name symbols shown by the teacher.
  2. Discuss the importance of National Symbols.
  3. Draw their school logo or other familiar symbols.
  4. Answer the teacher’s questions.

Evaluation Questions (Short Answer)

  1. What are National Symbols?
  2. Mention three National Symbols in Nigeria.
  3. What is the difference between National Symbols and Other Symbols?
  4. Give two examples of religious symbols.
  5. What does the green color in the Nigerian Flag stand for?
  6. What does the white color in the Nigerian Flag mean?
  7. Name one place where National Symbols are used.
  8. Who designed the Nigerian Flag?
  9. What is the currency of Nigeria?
  10. Why must we respect National Symbols?

Conclusion

The teacher reviews the lesson by summarizing key points. Pupils are asked to mention one National Symbol and one private symbol. The teacher corrects mistakes and gives feedback.


Assignment

  1. Draw the Nigerian National Flag.
  2. Draw the logo of your school.
  3. List five National Symbols in Nigeria.
  4. List three private symbols in Nigeria.
  5. Write two reasons why we must respect National Symbols.

Good Citizenship and Respect for National Symbols Civic Education KG Second Term Lesson Notes Week 9

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