Memory as Resistance Lesson Plan – Grade 9

To complement the Nelson Mandela in Cape Town Legacy Exhibition, a supportive education programme has been developed for primary and secondary school learners by the City of Cape Town in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Western Cape Government and Responsible Tourism Cape Town. This specific lesson plan is divided into three parts. Part 1 explores non-violent resistance through an exploration of Nokukhanya Luthuli’s life story and encourages learners to consider how women can be “written back” into history. Part 2 explores the Group Areas Act and District Six, and encourages learners to think about memory as a form of resistance. This part of the lesson plan may contribute to learners’ prescribed oral history project. Part 3 explores two turning points in South African history, namely the Langa march of 1960 and Nelson Mandela’s release from prison in 1990. Reference is also made to Radio Freedom and its role in the liberation struggle.