Introduce the subject of African weaving to the students through the use of photographs, posters or textbooks. Encourage the students to ask questions. Assign reading or research for the students to perform on the subject of African weaving.
Talk to the students about their readings or research concerning African weaving. Ask the students to distinguish which area they researched. Ask about the patterns associated with the area and the tribe they studied.
Show an educational video showing an African weaving process. Processes include loom weaving, hand-weaving and basket-making.
Assign a project for the students to create a flat, African design, woven mat. Give the students a piece of graph paper with 1/4-inch squares. Tell the students to use research material or teacher-supplied designs to create an African weave design that is 8 inches by 8 inches.
Provide 1/4-inch strips of construction paper or assign the students the task of cutting 1/4-inch strips of paper to complete their African weave design.
Show the students how to weave a mat using an over-under process. The over-under process starts each row of weaving opposite the last. Long strips of color will appear on the back of the mat when the design area is woven. Tell the students to make sure the over-under pattern is followed on the front of the woven design.
Check for understanding by asking questions, have a group critique of the African mats, assign a written report or provide a question and answer test.