Afrofuturism: Constructing a Better Future

woman with futuristic facial wear

The term Afrofuturism was coined by Mark Dery in 1993, but encompasses a long history of African American and African diaspora intellectual and creative work. According to Yaszek (2006) “Afrofuturism addresses themes and concerns of the African diaspora through technoculture and science fiction, encompassing a range of media and artists with a shared interest in envisioning black futures that stem from Afrodiasporic experiences.” In the first lesson, we move McDow’s argument forward by exploring Black Panther, and other Black Afrofuturistic creations, and challenging students to think about Afrofutrism’s purpose and effects. The next lesson provides students with historical contemporary examples of Afrofuturism through musical artists Sun Ra, George Clinton, Clppng, Janelle Monae, and journalist Neil Drumming. The final lesson asks students to consider Afrofuturism’s contribution to social justice.  Students are tasked with responding to and reflecting on Afrofuturism’s goals and their effectiveness.

Instructional Strategies:

  • Warm Up Questions & Exit Tickets
  • Timeline & Map Activity
  • Article & Questions
  • Podcast Jigsaw
  • Small group discussions
  • Creative Product Activity

Lesson Materials:

Afrofuturism PowerPoint

Teaching Area
World History since 1500
Grade Level
9-12
Downloadable Files
Afrofuturism- Constructing a Better Future Lesson Plan.pdf
Afrofuturism Lesson 1 - Wakanda Timeline _ Map Handout.pdf
Afrofuturism Lesson 1 - Further Research Handout.pdf
Afrofuturism Lesson 2 - George Clinton Homework.pdf
Afrofuturism Lesson 2 - Podcast Jigsaw Handout.pdf
Afrofuturism Lesson 3 - Creative Product Directions.pdf
Afrofuturism Lesson 3 - Discussion Questions.pdf
Afrofuturism Sources.pdf