Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

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Performance objectives

• Identify at least four traditional games and their origins.
• Discuss the cultural significance of these games.
• Demonstrate basic movements in some traditional games.
• Explain the benefits of traditional games in daily life.
• Discuss how these games promote inclusivity and unity.

Lesson summary

This lesson moves beyond the classroom and onto the playing field of our culture. Before there were video games and smartphones, our parents, grandparents, and ancestors kept themselves healthy, happy, and connected through traditional games. These games are not just "old-fashioned" fun; they are a vital part of our Ghanaian heritage. They teach us about teamwork, strategy, fitness, and our own history. In this lesson, we will explore some of these games, understand where they come from, why they are important, and most excitingly, we will get to play them and learn the basic movements involved.

Lesson notes

2.1 What are Traditional Games?

A traditional game is a physical or mental contest that has been passed down from one generation to the next within a specific culture or community. Unlike modern sports with globally standardized rules, traditional games often have rules that vary slightly from town to town. They are a form of "living heritage."

Key Characteristics: Cultural Roots: They are deeply embedded in the history, values, and daily life of a people. Simple Materials: They often require little to no special equipment. When they do, it's usually made from locally available materials like stones, sticks, bottle caps (*alikoto*), or even just our own bodies. Oral Tradition: The rules and songs are typically passed down by word of mouth and by watching others play. Community-Oriented: They are often played in groups and are a central part of social gatherings, festivals, and community bonding. 2.2 Origins and Importance of Traditional Games

Origins: Most traditional games don't have a single inventor or a specific date of creation. They evolved organically from: Daily Activities: Games mimicking farming (sowing seeds), fishing, or hunting. Social Celebrations: Games played during festivals (e.g., Homowo, Aboakyer) or after a hard day's work. Educational Purposes: To teach children important life skills like counting, strategy, cooperation, and physical agility. Tests of Strength & Skill: To determine the strongest or most skillful individuals in a community (e.g., arm wrestling, wrestling).

Evaluation guide

• Demonstrate the ability
• to apply basic
• movements in
• performing traditional