Colorful Kinara

Worksheet Description

This worksheet is centered on the Kinara, a key symbol of the Kwanzaa celebration. It prompts students to explore the meaning and significance of the Kinara by answering questions about what it is, the meaning of the word in Swahili, and what it represents. This activity aims to deepen the students’ understanding of the cultural and historical context of Kwanzaa through the exploration of one of its most iconic symbols.

Below the questions, there is an illustration labeled ‘menorah,’ which seems to be a mislabeling, as the image is meant to represent a Kinara, the candle holder used during Kwanzaa. The worksheet mistakenly uses a term associated with Hanukkah, not Kwanzaa. The activity to color the Kinara allows students to engage with the worksheet creatively, further reinforcing the learning experience. Through this worksheet, educators can correct the mislabeling and turn it into a learning opportunity about the differences and unique aspects of cultural holidays like Kwanzaa and Hanukkah.