Kwanzaa Lesson Plans

Students research the Internet for information about Kwanzaa. They compare and contrast the similarities and differences between Kwanzaa and Christmas.

Young scholars create examples of Kwanzaa Kinaras (candlesticks) using construction paper, glue, poster paper, and tissue paper in this multi-cultural Art lesson for the elementary school classroom. A detailed materials list is included.

Students investigate the holiday Kwanzaa by drawing pictures. In this cultural tradition lesson, students discuss the history and actions that take place during the holiday of Kwanzaa. Students draw a picture of a gift they would give to a friend or family member during the celebration.

Learners create snowflake similes, Kwanzaa plaques, menorah banners, and more for the month of December. In this December activities lesson plan, students also analyze characters in How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Fifth graders work in partners to research and create non-fiction books about December holidays for kindergarten students. They include information on the traditions, foods and history of Kwanzaa, Hanukkah and Christmas.

Students take a quiz on brief histories of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Las Posadas. They, in groups, research four December celebrations and then test their comprehension.

Students examine the winter holidays of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Winter Solstice. They define key vocabulary terms, read an article, complete a chart, and create a new holiday.

Learners create a cube exploring different holiday traditions. In this multicultural appreciation lesson, students research Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Kwanzaa holiday traditions. This lesson encourages the use of an individual learning contract.

Students study Kwanzaa by playing a board game with an egg carton. The first player takes all of the beans out of one of his or her cups and moves to the right, dropping one bean into each of the next three cups. Remember, the Kalah counts as a cup after play begins.

Students research information about Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanzaa using Yahoo Internet directory. They gain an appreciation of the history, customs, and similarities/differences of the three holidays.