Bringing History to Life

Black History Month helps us remember the significant contributions and struggles of the Black community throughout history. As educators, it is our responsibility to make sure that these stories are not confined to textbooks but brought to life in a way that engages students and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of historical struggles. At The British College of Brazil, the Year 3 teaching team paired a lesson on capoeira with a demonstration to teach essential historical and cultural concepts - creating a bridge between the past and the present.

Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music, provided a unique avenue to physically explore historical concepts. Originating in the 16th century among enslaved Africans in Brazil, capoeira was as a form of resistance and cultural expression. Through a professionally lead demonstration, students were not only exposed to the physical aspects of capoeira but also learned about its historical significance in the fight against oppression. The excited students from both campuses learned about the struggles for freedom, the resilience of the African diaspora, and the fusion of cultural elements that contributed to the evolution of capoeira and Brazilian culture. This immersive experience allowed them to embody history, enabling a deeper connection to classroom learning.

Traditional teaching can at times fall short in capturing the attention and interest of students. Practical and fun learning experiences, on the other hand, have the power to ignite curiosity and create lasting memories. Unsurprisingly, students were bobbing and weaving around each other for the rest of the week - their experiences, and their learning, sewn into their memories through movement.

Teaching Black history in a practical and fun way is not just an educational endeavour; it's a commitment to building a more inclusive and empathetic society. The combination of research-driven teaching and professionally guided demonstrations show the power of experiential learning in making history come alive. As educators, we have the opportunity to inspire a new generation that appreciates the diversity of human experiences, and by approaching history in a practical way, we can bridge the gap between the past and the present.

Mr. Deane Lindhorst
Year 3 Teacher 
PSHE & Wellbeing Coordinator