The Significant Features of Ghana and Mali

Objective:
Students will be able to explain the impact of the significant features of either Ghana or Mali based on the GRAPES model.

Writing Task:
Ghana and Mali were two great empires that arose in West Africa. In one paragraph, explain three characteristics of either Ghana or Mali and explain why these characteristics were significant.

Directions:
Choose one empire, either Ghana or Mali. Explain three characteristics of that empire using three of the key categories of GRAPES. Explain why each characteristic was significant.

Use the graphic organizer to plan your paragraph. When you are writing, use the criteria checklist below to ensure you have completed all aspects of the writing task.

Criteria Checklist:

• The topic sentence is clearly related to Ghana or Mali.
• Paragraph contains three characteristics of Ghana or Mali.
• At least one characteristic is from the primary source section on the GRAPES organizer.
• The significance of each characteristic is explained.
• The concluding statement is clearly related to Ghana or Mali. � The paragraph contains a well thought out topic sentence.
• Paragraph contains a concluding statement.
• Details and facts support the topic sentence.
• Explanations are clear.
• Explanations are related to the details and facts.
• Concluding sentence finishes your thought.
• Paragraph is indented.