Song and Link           Love Roller Coaster By the Ohio Players   

Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster

Synopsis of "Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster"

Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster is an inspiring tale that blends history, culture, and imagination. Set in the year 3035, the story follows renowned inventor Granville T. Woods, known as the "Black Edison," as he returns to Wakanda to help design a futuristic Figure 8 roller coaster. More than an amusement ride, the coaster symbolizes endless possibilities through innovation and African heritage.

Working alongside Wakanda's youth and engineers, Woods shares his knowledge of electrical engineering while reflecting on his legacy and the importance of cultural pride. The story celebrates community, creativity, and Afro-futurism, inspiring young readers to honor the past and boldly shape the future.

Letta S. Baker Mason brings this vibrant world to life, encouraging every reader to dream big and build boldly.

Link: Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Mason, Letta S. Baker: 9798326393388: Amazon.com: Books 

1. Formats:  Kindle $2.99, Paperback $19.99, and Hard cover $29.99
2. 5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars    5 ratings
3. #1 New Release in Children's Modern History Books+
4. See all formats and editions

Top reviews from the United States

Afrofuturistic Adventures with Granville T. Woods is a children’s book that beautifully integrates the elements of Afrofuturism with historical figures, aiming to educate and inspire young readers. This book can be examined through the four categories of children’s books: concept, predictable, narrative, and informative, all while being culturally responsive and relevant to the historical origins of Afrofuturism.

How Afrofuturistic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster Fits Key Children's Book Categories

1. Concept Book

Teaches children about ideas such as technology, innovation, and cultural identity through the lens of Granville T. Woods, introducing them to Afrofuturism and Black excellence in STEM.

2. Predictable Book

Utilizes story patterns and recurring themes, such as invention, resilience, and imagination, to help young readers follow along and build early reading confidence.

3. Narrative Book

It follows Woods's journey through Wakanda, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Readers witness his growth, inventions, and impact, making history exciting and personal.

4. Informative Book

Shares factual insights about Granville T. Woods's life and inventions while blending them with Afrofuturistic elements that reimagine Black futures and contributions.

Culturally Responsive & Relevant

• Centers Black identity and pride
• Reflects real historical figures in futuristic narratives
• Encourages STEM interest through culturally connected storytelling
• Promotes empowerment, imagination, and heritage

This book seamlessly blends education, storytelling, and cultural celebration, offering children a vibrant and affirming reading experience.

Free Pre-school Activities

Illustration Study Activity for "Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster"

Objective: Engage preschoolers in a creative exploration of the illustrations from "Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster" to develop their observation, storytelling, and artistic skills.

Activity Overview
This activity will guide preschoolers through a multi-sensory experience with the book's illustrations. They will observe, describe, and interpret the images, create their own stories, and express their ideas through art. The activity will be divided into several parts to keep the children engaged and focused.

Materials Needed
"Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster" book
Large, high-quality printouts of selected illustrations from the book
Crayons, markers, colored pencils
Construction paper
Glue, scissors
Storyboards or blank comic strips
Audio recording device (optional for storytelling)
Music playlist (with upbeat, futuristic themes)
Digital projector (optional for large group viewing)
Activity Steps

Part 1: Observation and Description
Gather the preschoolers in a circle.
Show them the book cover and ask if they know who Granville T. Woods is or what they think the book might be about.
Briefly introduce Granville T. Woods and his contributions as an inventor.
Picture Walk:

Go through the book, focusing on the illustrations. Show each picture and ask the children to describe what they see.
Encourage them to talk about the colors, shapes, and characters. Ask questions like:
"What is happening in this picture?"
"How do you think the characters are feeling?"
"What do you notice about the environment?"
Let the children use magnifying glasses or view the pictures on a digital projector to see details up close.
Discussion:

After observing each picture, have a group discussion about the scene.
Ask the children how they think the picture fits into the story.
Introduce the concept of a roller coaster and explain the unique figure-8 design.
Part 2: Storytelling and Interpretation
Story Sequencing:

Print out the illustrations in random order and spread them out on the floor or a table.
Ask the children to help put the pictures in the order they think tells the story best.
Discuss why they chose that sequence and what they think happens in each scene.
Creative Storytelling:

Divide the children into small groups and give each group one or two illustrations.
Ask them to create a short story or dialogue based on their pictures.
Encourage them to think about the setting, characters, and action in their scenes.
Each group can then share their story with the rest of the class.
Optionally, record their storytelling and play it back for them to hear.
Musical Inspiration:

Play some upbeat, futuristic music.   ex. Revival of Africa trailer Music Free - No Copyright Music - Royalty free background instrumental

https://youtu.be/NpTyPVbs-64?si=Vbi5wiQai8GSA-X6  

Ask the children how the music makes them feel and if it reminds them of any scenes in the book?
Encourage them to imagine what sounds they might hear on the figure-8 roller coaster.
Part 3: Artistic Expression
Color and Create:

Provide printouts of the illustrations for the children to color.
Encourage them to use bright, imaginative colors.
They can also add their own elements to the scenes, like drawing themselves riding the roller coaster.
Build a Roller Coaster:   Activity can be found in the back of the book.

Using stock paper, markers, and other craft materials, help the children create their own version of a figure-8 roller coaster.
They can design the tracks, cars, and background.
Glue their creations onto large sheets of paper or make a 3D model if materials are available.
Storyboard or Comic Strip:

Provide blank storyboards or comic strip templates.
Ask the children to draw their own sequence of events based on the book or their imagination.
They can add speech bubbles or captions to tell their story.
Part 4: Reflection and Sharing
Gallery Walk:

Display all the artwork and storyboards around the classroom.
Allow the children to walk around and look at each other's work.
Encourage them to talk about their favorite parts and what they enjoyed most about the activity.
Group Sharing:

Gather the children back in a circle.
Give them a chance to share their artwork and stories with the group.
Ask them what they learned about Granville T. Woods and the figure-8 roller coaster.
Closing Discussion:

Discuss how the activity helped them understand the story better.
Talk about the importance of imagination and creativity in both science and storytelling.
Encourage the children to think about how they can use their own creativity in everyday life.
Extension Activities
Field Trip: If possible, plan a visit to a local science museum or amusement park to see roller coasters in real life.
Inventor's Workshop: Set up a space where children can create their own inventions using everyday materials, inspired by Granville T. Woods.
Storybook Creation: Compile the children's artwork and stories into a class book that they can take turns bringing home.
Conclusion
This activity not only introduces preschoolers to the story of Granville T. Woods and his incredible figure-8 roller coaster but also nurtures their creativity, storytelling skills, and appreciation for innovation. By engaging with the illustrations and creating their own interpretations, the children will develop a deeper connection to the story and the amazing world of Afro-futuristic adventures.

Visual Aid Examples
Picture Walk Illustration:

Show an example of a picture from the book and how it can be discussed.
Provide prompts like, "What do you think is happening here?" or "Why do you think the characters are excited?"
Color and Create Activity:

Display a child’s-colored illustration and their additions to the scene.
Include ideas like drawing futuristic elements or their own roller coaster designs.
Storyboard or Comic Strip Template:

Provide a simple storyboard layout with 3-4 boxes where children can draw a sequence of events.
Include speech bubbles and thought clouds for them to add dialogue or thoughts.

Incorporating these detailed steps and visual aids, preschoolers will be engaged in a rich, multi-dimensional exploration of "Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster."

If you have specific illustrations from the book you'd like to focus on or any particular elements you want to highlight in the activity, feel free to share, and I can tailor the activity even further!

Get Your K–12 Activity Book!

Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster

Price: $20.00
Includes: Culturally responsive STEM + literacy activities for grades K–12.

🛒 How to Order

1. Email print@fast2print.com with:

   • Book Title: Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster

   • Your Name

   • Phone Number

   • Shipping Address

2. Receive Your Invoice
   Fast2Print will send an invoice to your email.

3. Make Payment
   Follow payment instructions on the invoice.

4. Get it Shipped!
   Once payment is confirmed, your book will be mailed to you.

✉️ Sample Email

To: print@fast2print.com
Subject: Order – Granville T. Woods Activity Book

Email Body:

Dear Fast2Print,

I would like to purchase the Afro-Futuristic Adventures with Granville T. Woods: Figure 8 Roller Coaster Activity Book.

Name: [Your Name]
Phone: [Your Number]
Address: [Your Address]

Please send me the invoice.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

🔗 Questions? Email print@fast2print.com for support.

Roller-coaster 3D STEAMS Project

2D Relica of Roller-Coaster

3D Replica of Roller Coaster

Pre-Release Sales Coming Soon!!!!

Sankofa, Sankofa

By Letta S. Baker Mason

Illustrated By Mark Fraley

Synopsis of Sankofa, Sankofa

    "Sankofa, Sankofa" is a heartwarming children's picture book written by Letta Baker Mason that introduces young readers to the profound concept of Sankofa, a word from the Akan tribe in Ghana that translates to "go back and fetch what you have lost." This principle is beautifully illustrated through engaging narratives and vibrant illustrations, encouraging children to explore the rich tapestry of their cultural heritage and history. The story follows the journey of the mythical Sankofa Bird as it embarks on an adventure across time and space to learn about their ancestors' achievements, wisdom, and experiences.

  Through encounters with historical figures, legendary heroes, and family elders, Sankofa shares the importance of understanding where you come from to know where you are going. Mason's storytelling is educational and inspiring, making complex concepts accessible to children. The book serves as a tool for teaching about the African diaspora and the significance of cultural identity and imparts values of resilience, pride, and self-awareness. "Sankofa, Sankofa" invites children and their families to converse about their histories, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. It is a delightful read that resonates with the message that we can build a brighter future by embracing our past. This picture book stands out as a cultural treasure, enriching the lives of young readers with its message of hope, unity, and the endless possibilities that come from knowing and honoring one's heritage.

Literacy Activities for "Sankofa, Sankofa"

"Sankofa, Sankofa" by Letta S. Baker Mason is a rich narrative that introduces young readers to the concept of Sankofa and the importance of understanding their cultural heritage. Here are literacy activities tailored for different educational levels to deepen students' engagement with the book's themes and encourage exploration of their own heritage.

Pre-K Activity: "My Family Tree Craft"

Objective: Introduce young children to the concept of family heritage and the idea of learning from the past through a simple and engaging craft activity.

Materials:

• "Sankofa, Sankofa" book
• Large sheet of paper or construction paper
• Crayons, markers, or colored pencils
• Glue
• Scissors
• Family photos or pictures cut out from magazines
• Leaf cutouts (can be pre-made by the teacher)

Instructions:

1. Read Aloud: Read "Sankofa, Sankofa" to the class. Discuss the Sankofa Bird and its journey to learn about its past. Explain that just like the bird, we can learn a lot from our family history.

2. Family Tree Craft:

   • Draw a large tree trunk and branches on the paper.
   • Have children color and decorate their tree.
   • Give each child several leaf cutouts. On each leaf, they can draw a picture of a family member or glue a small photo.
   • Help them write the names of their family members with assistance as needed.
   • Glue the leaves onto the branches of the tree.

3. Sharing: Allow each child to share their family tree with the class, talking about who is on their tree and any stories they know about their family.

Extension: Create a classroom “Sankofa Tree” where each child adds a leaf representing a piece of wisdom or tradition from their family.

Elementary School Activity: "Journey with the Sankofa Bird"

Objective: Enhance comprehension and personal connection by exploring the journey of the Sankofa Bird and creating a story about their own heritage.

Materials:

• "Sankofa, Sankofa" book
• Writing journals or paper
• Colored pencils or markers
• Map of the world or a large piece of paper

Instructions:

1. Discussion: After reading the book, discuss the journey of the Sankofa Bird. Ask questions like, "What did the bird learn on its journey? How did learning about the past help the bird?"

2. Map Activity:

   • Provide a map of the world or draw a simple one on paper.
   • Have each student mark a place where their ancestors come from or a place that is important to their family history.
   • Encourage them to share a story or a fact about this place.

3. Creative Writing:

   • Ask students to imagine they are the Sankofa Bird traveling to their ancestral place. What do they see, hear, and learn there?
   • Have them write a short story or a descriptive paragraph about their journey.

4. Illustration: Allow students to illustrate their story with a picture of their journey and the place they visited in their imagination.

Extension: Create a class book compiling all the students' journeys and illustrations.

Middle School Activity: "Historical Figures and Me"

Objective: Connect the themes of "Sankofa, Sankofa" with personal identity and history by researching and presenting on historical figures.

Materials:

• "Sankofa, Sankofa" book
• Research materials (books, internet access)
• Poster board or presentation software
• Markers, colored pencils, and other art supplies

Instructions:

1. Introduction: Read the book together and discuss how the Sankofa Bird learns about historical figures and their impact on the future. Talk about the importance of knowing about these figures and their contributions.

2. Research Project:

   • Each student selects a historical figure from their cultural heritage or a figure who has impacted their life.
   • Research this figure's life, achievements, and how they contributed to society.

3. Presentation:

   • Students create a poster or digital presentation about their chosen figure.
   • Include key information, interesting facts, and how this figure's legacy relates to the student's own life or community.

4. Personal Connection:

   • Write a short reflection on how learning about this figure has impacted their understanding of their own heritage or inspired them.

5. Share: Present their projects to the class.

Extension: Host a "Sankofa Gallery Walk" where students can display their projects and share their research with other classes or parents.

High School Activity: "Cultural Heritage and Social Justice"

Objective: Engage in deeper analysis of cultural identity and social activism by creating a multimedia project connecting past heritage with current social issues.

Materials:

• "Sankofa, Sankofa" book
• Access to research resources (libraries, internet)
• Multimedia tools (video editing software, presentation software)
• Journals or writing materials

Instructions:

1. Critical Reading: Read "Sankofa, Sankofa" and discuss the themes of cultural heritage and the importance of understanding one's past. Explore how these themes can connect to current social justice issues.

2. Research and Reflection:

   • Students choose a social issue that resonates with them (e.g., racial equality, environmental justice).
   • Research how understanding cultural heritage can contribute to addressing this issue.
   • Reflect on their own cultural background and how it shapes their views on this issue.

3. Multimedia Project:

   • Create a multimedia presentation (video, slideshow, podcast) that explores the chosen social issue, incorporates their cultural heritage, and connects to the themes of "Sankofa, Sankofa."
   • Include interviews, historical context, and personal reflections.

4. Class Discussion:

   • Share their projects with the class.
   • Facilitate a discussion on how understanding our past and cultural heritage can inform and inspire action on contemporary issues.

5. Reflective Essay: Write an essay summarizing their project and reflecting on what they have learned about the role of cultural heritage in social justice.

Extension: Partner with a local community organization to present their projects and discuss ways to address the social issues in their community.

These activities help students of all ages connect with the themes of "Sankofa, Sankofa" and understand the importance of knowing their heritage and its role in shaping their future.