Tribal Masks

Sixth grade French students have been learning about the traditions of various African Francophone countries in a research and design project that highlights the cultural significance of tribal masks. Many cultures worldwide have used masks in ceremonial events or for particular purposes such as warding off evil or benefitting the harvest. The sixth graders researched and learned about the specific use of masks in African Francophone countries and then designed a mask for a particular tribe and purpose.

Students could choose to design their masks in various ways. Many chose the Maker’s Empire program to design and print a 3D mask in the Center for Creativity & Design. In contrast, others crafted their masks using traditional materials like clay or cardboard. Once the masks had been designed and created, students painted them, carefully selecting colors of significance for their tribe.

Each student wrote a paragraph in French about their mask to present to the class. They gave the nationality and tribe for their mask and described how it was made, how it is used, and who wears it. In describing their mask, World Languages Teacher Rachana Sudhaman required her students to describe the color and quality of their mask using appropriate French adjectives and to incorporate at least two descriptive phrases in the negative. Students also demonstrated their command of ER verbs by including at least four phrases that describe actions that the mask can perform, such as bringing peace.

One student modeled their mask after those of the Koro tribe in Nigeria, and she incorporated geometric shapes to represent the Islamic influence on the tribe’s culture. Another student crafted a mask for the Okuyi tribe of Cameroon. Her mask is used during funerals and crossing rites and is worn by the tribal chief to ask for happiness and hope. In addition to incorporating design, culture, and language, this project highlights the diversity of the French-speaking world. “ I want the sixth graders to understand that the French language exists outside France and Canada,” says Rachana. “This helps students see how the African cultures have persisted, despite colonization, and evolved to be unique.”

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Tribal Masks