Exploring Nigeria’s Rich Traditional Art Cultural and Creative Arts JSS 3 First Term Lesson Notes Week 1

Subject: Cultural and Creative Arts
Class: JSS 3
Term: First Term
Week: 1
Age: 14-15 years
Topic: Nigeria Traditional Art
Sub-topic: Definition and Types of Traditional Art
Duration: 60 minutes

Behavioral Objectives

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

1. Define traditional art in Nigeria.
2. Identify different types of traditional art, including Nok, Igbo-Ukwu, Ife, and Benin.
3. Discuss the significance of these art forms in Nigerian culture.

Key Words

• Traditional Art
• Nok
• Igbo-Ukwu
• Ife
• Benin

Set Induction

Start with a question: “What comes to your mind when you think of Nigerian art?” Allow students to share their thoughts to spark interest.

Entry Behaviour

Students should have a basic understanding of art and culture.

Learning Resources and Materials

• Images of traditional art pieces
• Projector for presentations
• Reference books: Lagos State Scheme of Work, Cultural and Creative Arts textbooks

Building Background / Connection to Prior Knowledge

Discuss previous lessons on art in general and how culture influences artistic expression.

Embedded Core Skills

• Critical thinking
• Communication skills
• Creativity

Learning Materials

• Traditional art images
• Art supplies for hands-on activity

Instructional Materials

• Projector
• Whiteboard and markers
• Printed handouts on traditional art

Content

1. Definition of Traditional Art: Art that reflects the culture, history, and values of a community.
2. Types of Traditional Art:
   • Nok: Ancient sculptures known for their terracotta figures.
   • Igbo-Ukwu: Known for intricate bronze work and artifacts.
   • Ife: Famous for its realistic head sculptures.
   • Benin: Renowned for its plaques and sculptures depicting historical events.

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions

1. Traditional art reflects the _______ of a community. (a) values (b) games (c) buildings (d) clothing
2. The _______ culture is known for its terracotta figures. (a) Ife (b) Nok (c) Benin (d) Yoruba
3. Igbo-Ukwu is famous for its _______ work. (a) textile (b) bronze (c) painting (d) pottery
4. Ife sculptures are known for their _______ appearance. (a) abstract (b) realistic (c) colorful (d) modern
5. Benin art includes _______ depicting historical events. (a) textiles (b) plaques (c) pottery (d) music
6. The _______ period produced the Nok sculptures. (a) medieval (b) ancient (c) modern (d) colonial
7. Traditional art often tells _______ about the community. (a) lies (b) stories (c) jokes (d) secrets
8. Many traditional art forms are made from _______. (a) paper (b) plastic (c) clay (d) glass
9. Nok art was discovered in _______ state. (a) Lagos (b) Kaduna (c) Benin (d) Niger
10. The _______ is a famous sculpture type from Ife. (a) mask (b) head (c) drum (d) statue
11. Traditional art is passed down through _______. (a) movies (b) generations (c) technology (d) magazines
12. The _______ civilization is known for its bronze casting techniques. (a) Yoruba (b) Ife (c) Benin (d) Hausa
13. Art is an important part of _______ expression. (a) musical (b) political (c) cultural (d) scientific
14. Most traditional art pieces serve _______ purposes. (a) decorative (b) useless (c) harmful (d) confusing
15. _______ art is often used in ceremonies and festivals. (a) Modern (b) Traditional (c) Abstract (d) Digital

• Definition of Traditional Art
  • Traditional art refers to the artworks, crafts, and creative practices developed by indigenous cultures, often passed down through generations. These art forms are often linked to cultural practices, religious beliefs, and the history of the people.
• Types of Traditional Art in Nigeria
  • Nok Art: Originating from Kaduna State, known for its terracotta sculptures, representing one of the earliest forms of ancient Nigerian art.
  • Igbo-Ukwu Art: Found in Anambra State, characterized by intricate bronze and copper artifacts, showcasing advanced metalworking techniques.
  • Ife Art: Located in Osun State, famous for its life-like bronze and terracotta heads and statues that represent Yoruba royalty.
  • Benin Art: From Edo State, known for its brass, bronze, and ivory sculptures, primarily depicting historical events, royalty, and deities.

Class Activity Discussion

1. What is traditional art?
   Traditional art is art that reflects the culture and history of a community.
2. What is Nok art known for?
   Nok art is known for its terracotta sculptures.
3. Why is Igbo-Ukwu significant?
   It is significant for its intricate bronze artifacts.
4. What type of art is Ife famous for?
   Ife is famous for realistic head sculptures.
5. What materials are used in Benin art?
   Benin art often uses bronze and ivory.
6. How does traditional art benefit communities?
   It preserves cultural heritage and promotes identity.
7. Are there any modern influences on traditional art?
   Yes, some artists incorporate modern techniques and themes.
8. What role do festivals play in traditional art?
   Festivals often showcase traditional art and celebrate cultural heritage.
9. Can traditional art be used for storytelling?
   Yes, it often tells stories and conveys historical events.
10. How can students learn more about traditional art?
    Students can visit museums, read books, or attend workshops.
11. Is traditional art only for decoration?
    No, it often has cultural, spiritual, and historical significance.
12. How is traditional art created?
    Traditional art is created using methods passed down through generations.
13. What is the significance of color in traditional art?
    Colors often have cultural meanings and symbolism.
14. Are there famous traditional artists in Nigeria?
    Yes, many artists have gained recognition for their traditional works.
15. Can traditional art evolve over time?
    Yes, traditional art can adapt to contemporary contexts while maintaining its roots.

Presentation

1. Step 1: The teacher revises the previous topic, which was “Introduction to Art”.
2. Step 2: The teacher introduces the new topic, “Nigeria Traditional Art.”
3. Step 3: The teacher allows the pupils to give their contributions and corrects them when necessary.

Teacher’s Activities

• Facilitate discussions.
• Show images of traditional art.
• Provide information on each type of art.

Learners’ Activities

• Participate in discussions.
• Examine images and artifacts.
• Share their thoughts on the significance of each art form.

Assessment

• Observe student participation during discussions.
• Review responses to fill-in-the-blank questions.

Evaluation Questions

1. Define traditional art.
2. Name one type of traditional art and describe it.
3. What is the significance of Nok art?
4. Describe the art form from Igbo-Ukwu.
5. How does Ife art differ from Benin art?
6. What materials are commonly used in traditional art?
7. Explain the role of storytelling in traditional art.
8. How can traditional art influence cultural identity?
9. Describe a traditional art piece that interests you.
10. Why is it important to preserve traditional art?

Conclusion

The teacher goes around to mark the answers and provides feedback on the topic. Summarize the importance of traditional art in Nigerian culture.