Patchwork Designs > HISTORICALLY SPEAKING JAMAICA PATCH PROGRAM

HISTORICALLY SPEAKING JAMAICA PATCH PROGRAM
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1. Jamaica is the third largest island in the Caribbean Sea. It is about 146 miles long and 50 miles wide. What continent is it located on? What countries is it near? Identify the capital, flag and currency used. Identify the symbols on the patch.

2. The official language of Jamaica is English. Some of the dialect in Jamaica may be different that what you may hear in America because of the patois, or Jamaican slang. Try to form a phrase using patois OR learn 4 words.

3. The first people that lived in Jamaica were the Arawaks. They called this island Xaymaca, which means "land of woods and water." In 1655, the British took over Jamaica to grow sugar and by the 18th century they became the largest sugar producer in the world. Research other fruits or vegetables or taste a food product from Jamaica. Examples: mangoes, peaches, sugar, bananas, plantains, coffee, citrus fruits, and cocoa.

4. Music is very important to the Jamaicans. Reggae music was created in Jamaica and became popular all over the world with the help of Bob Marley. Try to sing a popular song, dance to Jamaican music, or learn more about a musical instrument played in Jamaica. Examples of other Jamaican music are African Roots, Mento, Ska, and Dancehall. Some examples of Jamaican instruments are: mbiras, graters, triangles, rhythm sticks, sitar (plucked lute), and sarangi (bowed lute).

5. The Jonkonnu takes place around Christmas time in Jamaica. Everyone wears colorful masks and costumes. Other celebrations and festivals coincide with seasons, independence, or their culture. Create a simulated Jamaican celebration, create a project or food representing one of their festivals or holidays, OR learn more about one of their celebrations. Examples of festivals or other celebrations include: Independence Day, Carnival, Reggae Sunsplash, Kite Festival, Easter Regatta, or the Maroon Festival.

6. Jamaicans have won many Olympic medals in track and field including Veronica Campbell, a sprinter who won gold in the 200m sprint and led the Jamaican team to gold in the woman's 4x100 relay at the 2004 Athens games. Outdoor sports are very popular in Jamaica. Some of the most popular sports are: sail boating, swimming, horseback riding, lazy river rides, hiking, soccer, cricket, Scuba Diving, or fishing. Learn more about one of these sports, play one, or watch one.

7. Jamaican artists create beautiful paintings and wood carvings. These creations reflect their heritage and unique Jamaican style. Other crafted items that Jamaicans are known for are: handbags, embroidered linen, sea shell art, paintings, pottery, sculpture, and jewelry. Create a craft or project using a traditional Jamaican skill.

8. Many generations have passed down folk tales and Anancy stories from the early settlers. In addition, there are stage shows performed each year in Kingston's Ward Theater that depict folkloric characters. Research a folk tale, proverb, poem, or story or act out a folk story that depicts the Jamaican heritage. Examples are: The Pea that Made a Fortune, Clever Molly May, and Day Time Trouble.

9. Due to the tropical climate, traditional clothing in Jamaica is light weight. Vibrant clothing is mainly worn for special celebrations or festivals. The women wear cotton skirts and tops accented with a head scarf coordinating with their costume. Draw a picture of the clothing, view clothing in books or the internet, or color the paper dolls available in our manual.

10. Jamaica has over 233 bird species and many are endangered. Other animals residing in Jamaica include marine life, amphibians, but very few mammals. Choose 3 animals that reside in Jamaica to learn more about. Examples are: turtles, manatees, dolphins, mongoose, owl, herons, pelicans, lizards and frogs.

11. There are more than 3000 flowering plants in Jamaica. Many are exotic and unique flowers species. Choose 3 species to learn more about. Learn the color, shape and where it blooms. Examples are: orchids, anthurium, hibiscus, periwinkle, heliconias, and gingers. For extra, learn the parts of a flower or create tissue flowers for displays or to wear in your hair.

12. Jamaica is commonly known for its sandy beaches and tropical weather. Did you know that there is a large area in Jamaica that has a wilderness atmosphere? What is the name of Jamaica's tallest mountain? Choose an area or city in Jamaica to learn more about, such as the terrain or the products that are grown there.

13. Jamaican food is often spiced with jerk and accented with rice and vegetables. The most popular snack in Jamaica is a patty, a thin crisp crust filled with beef and vegetables. Another popular snack is the stamp and go, salt fish cakes. Try a recipe or learn more about traditional dishes served in Jamaica. Examples are: pepperpot soup, curried goat, brown fish stew, and spicy chicken.

14. Jamaica has many traditional toys and games, some you may have played in your own country. Learn about other pastimes or games played in Jamaica such as Pit Pat, The Ring, Dominos, or Kalooki.