MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

Social Studies Notes for GRADE SIX PACKAGE

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 MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
GRADE 6 STUDY PACKAGE
SOCIAL STUDIES - NOTES
TOPIC: Politeness
SUB-TOPIC: Rules for better living

Definition
Politeness means having or showing good manners or respect for
other people. Being polite helps you to have appropriate and
considerate behaviour which will enable you to form good manners
and become more socially attentive when you grow up.

Breaking of rules:
1. Rules broken at home and school result in punishment of some
form.
2. Rules broken at work place can result in one being disciplined
or fired.
3. Rules broken at societal or country level result in one being
punished by the courts.
4. Rules broken while playing games can lead to disqualification.
5. Rules broken when travelling can result in an accident.

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School rules are important for the effective management of the
school.
Some school rules are:
- Attend school regularly & punctually.
- Pupils must always be dressed in uniforms.
- Pupils must obey the bell etc.

Some home rules are:

- Obey your parents.
- Show respect for older relatives.
- Be courteous to your friends and relatives.

Some rules when among elders:

- Show respect for elders
- Greet elderly people.
- Help elderly people.

Some rules for travelling:

-Wear seat belts, helmets or life jackets.
- Do not smoke.
- Do not carry firearm, weapons or explosive.

Some rules for the road:

-Walk on the right-hand side of the road.
- Use the pedestrian crossing.
- Drivers must use speed limit.

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Some rules for sports and games:
-Obey decisions made by the referee or umpire.
- Follow given instructions.
- Be friendly to your opponent.

SUB-TOPIC: Showing respect for public infrastructure.

Infrastructure refers to permanent structures found in our community
and country. Some infrastructures found in our community are roads,
bridges, landmarks, properties, private and public buildings,
monuments, water systems, utility posts (such as telephone and
electricity), bus sheds, water hydrants, pump stations, sluices and
kokers, play grounds and parks.
All infrastructures in our community must be protected because they
are of service to the people in the community.
Some ways by which infrastructure can be protected are:
• Putting up signs such as No trespassing, No bills.
• Do not:
-sit on rails of bridges, culverts
-throw stones on building, post bills, litter, tie animals on
posts.
• Follow the instructions of road signs.
• Keep animals off the road.
Pictures of infrastructure in your community

Community Play Parks Traffic Lights Fire Hydrant

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SUB-TOPIC:
Desirable behaviours
Respect for leaders and visitors.
Courtesy rules and maxims.
Some desirable behaviours children must have are:

Being courteous to all elders and peers.

Being kind to everyone.
Greet or welcome everyone.
Being polite.
Be helpful to all.
Show care and concern.

Showing respect for leaders and elders:

1. Answer verbally when spoken to.

2. Say excuse me if you have to interrupt.
3. Remember to say please, thank you and sorry in different
situations.
4. Greet elders and visitors.
5. Address elders and visitors appropriately.
6. Enquire from visitors if they need help.

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TOPIC: Guyana’s Natural Regions.

SUB - TOPIC: What is a Natural Region?

Guyana has different landforms called Natural Region.
A Natural Region is an area, which has similar features such as soil,
built of land, plants or vegetation and climate.
The Four Natural Regions are:
Low Coastal Plain
Hilly Sand and Clay Region
High Land Region
Interior Savannah

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TOPIC: Guyana’s Natural Regions.

SUB - TOPIC: The Low Coastal Plain

The Low Coastal Plain is a narrow flat strip of land, stretching from
Northern tip of Point Playa to the Corentyne River, to a distance of
approximately 432 kilometres (270 miles). Its width is about 16 to 64
kilometres (10 to 40 miles).
The Low Coastal Plain is about 2 to 4 metres (6 to 8 feet) below sea
level. During high tide, most of the coastline is below sea level. To
keep the tide out, concrete sea-walls, dams and groynes (a
structure built to interrupt water flow and limit movement of
sediments, e.g. sluices and kokers) have been built. The climate of
this coastal region consist of two (2) wet (rainy) and two (2) dry
seasons.
Soil
There are three types of soil on the Coastal Plain.
Silty clay or mud forms our rice and sugar lands.
Pegasse soil, which is soft and spongy, found especially in the
Essequibo. Coffee, fruits and vegetables grow well in this type of soil.
Sandy soil, called reef lands found on the Corentyne Coast, where
coconuts grow.
Vegetation
The vegetation (plant growth of any country or region) of the
Coastal Plain is affected by soil, climate and land formation. The
natural vegetation (flora) on the mudflats of the Essequibo, Berbice
and Demerara River is the mangrove and courida trees. Their roots
help to hold the soil together and prevent erosion. Other natural
vegetations include the Troolie Palm, the Ete Palm, Manni, White
Cedar and Crabwood.

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Resources
The build of the land, its clayey soil and the wet and dry climates
make it suitable for the growth of, sugarcane, rice, coconuts, ground
provisions, green vegetables and fruits. The rearing of poultry,
livestock and fishes in some areas of this region, make agriculture the
main economic activity on the Coastal Plain.
Population
Most of the population of Guyana, live on the Coastal Plain earning
their living on the sugar estates, on the rice fields and other
agricultural areas. Some also work in towns or other nearby villages
as public servants.
Important Places
Some important places on the Coastal Plain:
1. Five towns of Guyana are found on the Coastal Plain. These are:
Georgetown – the capital city and chief port.
Anna Regina
New Amsterdam
Rose Hall
Corriverton
2. The Tapakuma Irrigation Project on the Essequibo Coast.

3. Chief Lakes Also on the Essequibo Coast. These are:

- The Tapakuma Lake
- The Quakabuka or Mainstay Lake
- Capoey Lake and Ituribisci Lake
4. The Agricultural Project

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- The Mahaica Mahaicony Abary, Agricultural Development
Authority. (MMA/ADA)

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TOPIC: Guyana’s Natural Regions.

SUB - TOPIC: The Hilly Sand and Clay Region

The Hilly Sand and Clay Region is found south of the Low Coastal
Plain. It covers about one quarter of Guyana and extends from the
Pomeroon River, arcs inland to the Mazaruni and Potaro Rivers, then
eastward to the Corentyne, the border at Suriname.
This sandy region has hills of various heights, with valleys and many
black water creeks. The days are hot and the nights are cold, with
some relief rainfall.
Soil
In the Hilly Sand and Clay Region, the soil is made up of white or
reddish sand and red clay.
Vegetation
In the red and clayey areas, some agricultural farming is carried out
in this region. The sandy soil is covered is by valuable forest of
Greenheart, Mora, Crabwood, Wallaba, and other timbers.
Resources
Bauxite, which is mined at Linden (Mackenzie), Ituni and
Kwakwani and then exported to be converted into aluminium.
Timber is cut from the Bartica Triangle and Mabura Hill.
Dairy products from Moblissa.
Mining of sand.
Making of Charcoal.

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Population
This region is not densely populated, as the Coastland. The
population which is mainly loggers, bauxite workers, commercial
workers, public servants and Amerindians are found mainly where
bauxite mining is done, timber is cut or logging is done and where
there are Missions or Amerindian Reservations are found – e.g.
Orealla, Calcuni, Epira.

Important Places
Some important places on the Hilly Sand and Clay Region:
Two towns of Guyana are located here. They are:
- Bartica – situated at the confluence of the Cuyuni, Mazaruni
and Essequibo rivers. Bartica is referred to as “ the gateway to
the hinterland” Linden.

- Mining Communities such as Mackenzie (Linden), Ituni,

Kwakwani.

- The Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri.

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TOPIC: Guyana’s Natural Regions.

Sub – Topic: Interior Savannah

A savannah is tropical grassland with scattered trees. The savannahs
of Guyana are named after the Rupununi River and are situated in
the south – west. The forested Kanuku Mountain range divides the
area into two:
The North Savannah
The South Savannah
Soil
The soil is made up both sand and clay with rolling grass land with
scattered trees, because of the grass this region is also known as
cattle country.
Population
The population comprises mainly of Guyana’s Indigenous people.
There are 9 tribes of Amerindians who are farmers and vaqueros i.e.
people who look after cattle. The North Savannah, is the home to
the Macushi Tribe. The South Savannah, where the Wapisiana’s live,
is more hilly. Mountains like Shiriri, Marudi and Bat, rise sharply from
the general level of the plains.
Important Places
Some important places are:
Lethem
Dadanawa
St. Ignatius
The Kanuku Mountain Range

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Economic Activities
The main Economic Activities are:
Cattle ranching
Farming of peanuts and ground provision and
balata bleeding.

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TOPIC: Guyana’s Natural Regions.

SUB - TOPIC: The Forested Highland Region

This Natural Region is highland is very mountainous. This is the largest
region and the main source of our forest wealth. The highland is also
important because:

-Some of the largest gold and diamond fields in Guyana are

found in this natural region.

-The highland region experiences heavy rainfall. Rain falling in

this region collects in streams which run off in all directions to
form the sources of the country’s main rivers.

-The majestic waterfalls e.g. Kaieteur, and other falls such as

Orinduik form the scenic beauty which attract tourists from
other countries.

Vegetation
The vegetation consists of dense forests which provide Guyana with
timber – a valuable resource which earns foreign exchange when
exported.

Resources
The main resources are timber gold and diamond. However they
also produce beef, peanuts, maize (corn), cassava, yam,
vegetables, fishing and balata bleeding. These resources make
cattle ranching and farming the main economic activities of the
Interior Savannahs.
Population

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This region is sparsely populated mainly with loggers, pork knochers,
balata bleeders and native Amerindians.
Important Places
The Mazaruni – Potaro area – the largest gold and diamond
producing area in Guyana.
The Majestic Kaieteur Fall on the Potaro River.
The Bartica – Potaro Roadway.
Mount Roraima
Mountain Ranges
Imataka Pakaraima Kanuka
Kamoa Sierra Acarai

TRANSPORTATION LINK BETWEEN AND AMONG ADMINISTRATIVE

REGIONS.
Transportation is the movement of goods, services and people from
one place to another.
Various forms of transportation can be used to get from one place
to another.
Land eg. road ways and trails.
Water ways eg. rivers and canals.
Air eg. using helicopter, aeroplane and sky van.
Links: region 3 & 4 Georgetown/Vreed en Hoop movements can be
done via boats or motor vehicles.
Region 4 & 7 Georgetown/Bartica movements can be done via
boat or aeroplane.
Region 6 & 8 Berbice/Mahdia movements can be done via buses or
aeroplane.

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TOPIC: FESTIVALS AND CELEBRATIONS
SUB-TOPIC: RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS

Religious Holidays in Guyana

Good Friday is observed at the end

of Lent- a season of forty days, during
which Christian fast and pray. It is the
most solemn season in the Christian
calendar. It is remembered by
Christians as the day Jesus was crucified on a cross to save mankind.
Every year Christians attend service, where Christ’s death is
remembered by singing hymns and saying prayers of thanksgiving.

Easter is celebrated three days after

Good Friday. It is a joyous festival. It
signifies the resurrection of Jesus
Christ. Kites are being flown in open
spaces such as parks, beaches etc.

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 Christmas is a festival that
celebrates the birth of
Jesus Christ on December
25 every year. Christians
throughout the world hold
special church services to
give thanks for the birth of Christ. It is a time of merry- making, feasting
and giving. The spirit of goodwill and peace towards men was the
message of the angles who brought the good news of Jesus’ birth.
Every year people cook special meals, bake cakes, decorate homes
with Christmas tree with fairy lights, and carol singing.
Everyone enjoys Christmas, regardless of his or her religion.

Eid ul-Adha is important festival in the Muslim calendar. Some Muslims

may regard this as the most important festival as it remembers the
prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son as proof of his love for
Allah (God). At this time Sacrifices are made and the meat are shared
with family and friends.

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 Youman Nabi This is the celebration of
the birth and death anniversary of
the prophet Muhammad, to
whom the Holy Quran was
revealed. Muslims go to the
mosque and give thanks
afterwards they celebrate with family and friends sharing sweet meats
such as mettai ,burfee, vermicelli etc

Phagwah .
This is the festival of colours.
It signifies the victory of good over evil
and is celebrated as a day of
spreading happiness and love. On the
eve of Holi, prayers are done after
which Holika (bonfires) is lit. The King’s evil sister, Holika tried to kill
Prahlad because he refused to worship King Kashyapu and his riches.
Holika sat with Prahlad in her lap on the pyre. In the end she was burnt
to death and Prahlad miraculously escaped alive.
In Guyana, this festival is celebrated by the squirting of coloured liquid
called abeer, drenching each other with water and sprinkling of
abracks and colourful powder. Also, the singing of chowtals and Holi
songs can be heard in homes and streets.

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 Diwali is the festival of light. It signifies
light over darkness, the return of Lord
Rama to Ayodhya, after his 14 years of
exile and the victory over Ravana. On
Diwali eve, there is a motorcade
procession which passes through the
streets of the city and some villages. Boys and girls are dressed
depicting Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Vehicles are all brightly lit with
decorative lights.
On Diwali day prayers are made to Goddess Laxmi and in the evening
diyas (earthen lamps) are lit, sweet meats are distributed among
friends, families and neighbours.

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 Non-Religious National Holidays in Guyana

Mashramani Day is celebrated in Labour Day or Workers’ Day is

observance of Guyana’s Republic
status, which was gained on
February 23, 1970.
On February 22 there is usually a
Flag – raising ceremony where the
President of the Republic addresses
the nation. For Guyanese, Republic
Day includes float parades, music,
steal pan, costume, Masquerade
bands and calypso competitions
games and cooking. It is an
Amerindian word meaning
celebrations after hard work.
celebrated on the first of May
every year. It celebrates the
achievements of the working
people. It recalls their sacrifices
and struggles for freedom and
fair employment. It salutes trade
unions and their stewardship for
the workers' well-being.

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 Non-Religious National Holidays in Guyana

Arrival Day Caricom Day is a public holiday in

Guyana observed May 5 as the
beginning of the arrival of the first
batch of Indentured immigrants.
Guyana, observed on the first
Monday in July each year.
The day marks the signing of the
Treaty of Chaguaramas in the year
1973. The treaty established the
Caribbean Community.

Emancipation day is celebrated Independence Day is a national

on the 1st August every year to holiday in the Co-operative
recognize the abolition of slavery. Republic of Guyana. It is
At the National Park, there is a day celebrated on May 26 every year
filled with lots of with activities such as a flag-raising
cultural activities including African ceremony, the president and
drumming, dancing, foods, arts other national leaders address the
public. Concerts, performances,
and firework displays take place in
different administrative regions of

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 and craft, and literature.
Boxing Day (St. Stephen's Day)
December 26 is referred to
as Boxing Day. This national
holiday commemorates the
Christian martyr who was stoned
to death. In remembrance,
people partake
in all kinds of games and sports.
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the country.
New Year's Day is a national
holiday as part of celebrations
that start on New Year's Eve and
reach a high point with the turning
of the clock from 11:59pm on 31st
December to midnight on 1st
January.
The Christian community attend
Church service on the night of
New Year’s Eve.
TOPIC: FESTIVALS AND CELEBRATIONS
SUB-TOPIC: NATIONAL AND INTER -NATIONAL EVENTS CELEBRATED IN
GUYANA
Events
Remembrances Day-
Guyana and other countries around
the world celebrates Remembrance
Day. Remembrance Day (also known
as Poppy Day or Armistice Day) is
commemorated on the 11th
November each year, and marks the
end of World War I in 1918.
Commonwealth Day
A holiday observed in parts of
the Commonwealth of Nations
formerly on May 24 as the anniversary
of Queen Victoria's birthday and now
on the second Monday in March.
The aim is to celebrate the unity,
diversity and links of the
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Activities
• A two-minute silence is
held at 11am
to remember the people
who have died in wars
• Poppies are worn
• The day is marked by
parades within towns in
Guyana
• There is a service on
remembrances where
Wreaths are laid at the
Cenotaph
• An Anglican Service
attended by the Head of the
Commonwealth, Secretary-
General and High
Commissioners. The service is
broadcast live throughout the
world.
 modern Commonwealth and to foster
greater understanding of
the Commonwealth's achievements
and role.
United Nation Day-
Is celebrated on the 24th October by
united Nations (UN) that aims to
maintain international peace and
security.
Road Safety week
The Guyana National Road Safety
council campaign in partnership with
Guyana Police Force Traffic
Department and other Road Safety
Stakeholders to observe road safety
week during the month October-
November
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• An annual concert is
usually held in the
General Assembly Hall.
• Church Services are
held.
• Videos are aired to
remind us of
consequences of
disobeying traffic rules.
• More traffic sign are
being mounted
• Recognizing drivers who
use road correctly.
• Traffic Police patrol the
road ways regularly and
maintaining the flow of
traffic.
 Fire Prevention Week • Fire Safety Fair and
During the month of October Exhibition.
Fire Service will host activities to help
the public be aware of how they can
save life in case of a fire

SOME OBSERVANCES ARE:

1. Commonwealth Day - is observed on the second Monday in March.

This day is not a holiday. The day is celebrated with activities planned
by each member country.

2. Youth week – this week is observed during Independence Anniversary

week. It is dedicated to the youths of the country. This week gives
them an opportunity to participate in activities, which will help to
develop them and the communities in which they live.

3. Enmore Martyrs’s Day - This day is in honour of the sugar workers. A

monument was erected in honour of the five heroic sugar workers,
Rambarran, Pooran, Lallabagee, Surajballi and Harry, who were
killed during a massive working class protest against the social and
economic conditions on the East Coast sugar estates.

4. Fire Prevention week - During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults,

and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire. Firefighters
provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically
decrease casualties caused by fires.

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5. Remembrance Day - Armistice Day is on 11th November and is also
known as Remembrance Day. It marks the day World War One
ended, which is actually 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month, in
1918. Nowadays, people remember those who were lost in the war
by holding a two-minute silence and by wearing a red poppy.

6. Education Month- this is observe in the month of September.

Guyana's Education Month is a celebration of the nation's young

people. It aims to promote learning and the importance of
education, not just on an individual level, but in terms of benefiting
society as a whole. Education Month is celebrated with activities
across Guyana.

During this month world Literacy Day is also observed on September

8th. This observances have taken place annually around the world to
remind the public of the importance of Literacy. Children participate
in reading, singing, drama, art competions, impromptu speech, quiz,
etc.

7. Indigenous Heritage Month -The one month celebration is

observed every September. Guyanese become increasingly
aware of the contributions of the Indigenous Peoples in the Arts
and Development. A Village host is chosen annually . A pageant
is held and the sashing of the queen.

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8. Agriculture Month – this is observed in
October. Guyana's annual Agriculture Month is an opportunity for
people to learn more about the current state of agriculture in the
country, celebrate recent achievements and successes, and get a
sneak peek at the future of the industry. During this month we also
observe World Food Day.

World Food Day (October 16) promotes global awareness and action
for those who suffer from hunger.

9. Breast Cancer Awareness Month - The Breast Cancer Awareness

Month, marked in countries across the world every October, helps to
increase attention and support for the awareness, early detection
and treatment as well as palliative care of this disease.

10. Tourism Awareness Month - Tourism Awareness Month is observed in

the month of November. It puts the country’s tourist destinations on
the spotlight. The tourism and hospitality sector promotes events to
highlight the country’s observance.

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ADMINISTRATIVE REGIONS
SUB-TOPIC: NAMES OF ADMINISTRATIVE REGIONS
Guyana was divided into Administrative Regions in 1980.
The 10 Administrative Regions are:
Region 1 – Barima – Waini
Region 2 – Pomeroon – Supenaam
Region 3 – Essequibo Islands – West Demerara
Region 4 – Demerara – Mahaica
Region 5 – Mahaica – Berbice
Region 6 – East Berbice – Corentyne
Region 7 – Cuyuni – Mazaruni
Region 8 – Potaro – Siparuni
Region 9 – Upper Takutu – Upper Essequibo
Region 10 – Upper Demerara – Upper Berbice

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TOPIC: ADMINISTRATIVE REGIONS
SUB-TOPIC: ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES AND TOWNS FOUND IN THE
ADMINISTRATIVE REGIONS.
Regions Towns Economic Activities
1.Barima- Waini Mabaruma logging
gold and diamond
mining
growing of ground
provision
2. Pomeroon Anna Regina rice cultivation
Supernaam logging
3.Essequibo Islands- - rice cultivation
West Demerara sugar production
4.Demerara – Georgetown rice cultivation
Mahaica sugar cultivation
farming
manufacturing
coconut cultivation
5.Mahaica-Berbice - rice cultivation
sugar production
coconut cultivation
cattle ranching
6.East Berbice - New Amsterdam rice cultivation
Corentyne Rose Hall sugar production
Corriverton

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 7.Cuyuni-Mazaruni Bartica gold and diamond
mining
charcoal production
semi- precious stones
mining
8. Potaro- Siparuni Mahdia gold and diamond
mining
logging
9. Upper Takutu- Lethem cattle ranching
Upper Essequibo peanut farming
tobacco cultivation
mining of semi-precious
minerals
10. Demerara - Linden bauxite mining
Berbice logging
cash crop farming e.g.
pineapples, peanuts
• The name of each Administrative region tells of its boundaries.
• The boundary of each region was determined by population,
physical size, geography and economic resources.
• The division of the region aids in the governance of the country.
• Each Administrative Region is controlled by a RDC-Regional
Democratic Council headed by a Regional Chairman
• The Regional Democratic Council is responsible for the overall
management and administration of the region.

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 • The councillors are elected at the same time as the members of the
National Assembly at Regional Elections every 5 year.

TOPIC: ADMINISTRATIVE REGIONS

SUB-TOPIC: RESOURCES FOUND IN THE ADMINISTRATIVE REGIONS

Demerara -Mahaica – this is the region with the largest human resource.
This may be as a result of:
• Most of Guyana’s manufacturing industries are located there.
• The capital city can be found in this region.
• More jobs opportunity are available.
• More educational and health facilities are available.
• The seat of government is located there.

Region 4 is Guyana most populated region followed by Region 6 -East

Berbice Corentyne.
Most of Guyana’s mineral wealth is found in Regions 7 and 8.
There are three hundred sixty-five small islands found in the Essequibo
River. Three of the largest islands can be found at the mouth of the
Essequibo, these are Hogg Island, Wakenaam and Leguan.

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TOPIC: Weather and Climate

SUB-TOPIC: Difference between weather and climate

A weather pattern occurs when the weather stays the same for days or
weeks at a time. The patterns of weather are tied to the four seasons:
summer, winter, spring, and fall. There are a few different weather
patterns that you may already know about, such as hot and dry, wet and
rainy, or cold.

Meteorologist is a person who study the weather. He/she works at the

meteorological station.

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Meteorologist

Weather Patterns

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Seasons

Summer Winter

Autumn Spring

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 W e a t h e r I ns t r u m e n t s

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TOPIC: Weather and Climate

SUB-TOPIC-Clothing Worn for the Different Seasons

People are required to wear different clothing for the different seasons.

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Spring Clothing

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TOPIC: Weather and Climate

SUB-TOPIC- Effects of Weather and Climate

There are many factors that will be affected by climate change including
rising sea levels, drought and loss of agricultural land.

• Increasing temperatures caused by climate change will make the

water of the oceans expand; ice melting in the Antarctic and
Greenland will also contribute to the rising sea level.
• Sea levels could rise by as much as 25 to 50 cm, by the year 2100.
Greater sea levels will threaten the low-lying coastal areas such as
the Netherlands and Bangladesh, millions of areas of land will be at
danger from flooding; causing people to leave their homes. Low
lying areas in cities will be hugely affected by the rising sea.
• Changes in weather will affect many crops grown around world.
Crops such as wheat and rice grow well in high temperatures, while
plants such as maize and sugarcane prefer cooler climates.
Changes in rainfall patterns will also affect how well plants and crops
grow. The effect of a change in the weather on plant growth may
lead to some countries not having enough food. Brazil, parts of
Africa, south-east Asia and China will be affected the most and
many people could be affected by hunger.
• All across the world, there is a big demand for water and in many
regions, such as the central and eastern Africa there is not enough
water for the people. Changes in the climate will change the
weather patterns and will bring more rain in some countries, but

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 others will have less rain, generally dry areas will become drier and
wet areas could become wetter.
• As climate change takes place, our daily weather and normal
temperatures will change, the homes of plants and animals will be
affected all over the world. Polar bears and seals are examples of
animals that will be affected by climate change. They will have to
find new land for hunting and living, if the ice in the Arctic melts, but
the fact is more real that these species could become extinct.
• Climate changes will affect everyone, but some populations will be
at greater risk. Countries whose coastal regions have a large
population, such as Egypt and China, may have to move
populations inland to avoid flooding.

The effect on people will depend on how well we can adapt to the
changes and how much we can do to reduce climate change in the
world.

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TOPIC: Natural Disasters

Disaster is a sudden accident or a natural catastrophe that causes great

damage or loss of life.

A natural disaster is a major adverse event resulting from natural

processes of the earth. A natural disaster can cause loss of life or
damage to property. For example:

• Floods
• Hurricanes
• Tornadoes
• Volcanic Eruptions
• Earthquakes
• Tsunamis
Types of Natural Disasters.

Hurricanes

Hurricanes are large, swirling storms with winds of 119 kilometers per hour
(74 mph) or higher. The storms form over warm ocean waters and
sometimes strike land. When a hurricane reaches land, it pushes a wall of
ocean water ashore. This wall of water is called a storm surge, which
along with heavy rain can cause flooding, especially near the coast.

Once a hurricane forms, weather forecasters predict its path and how
strong it will get. This information helps people prepare for the storm
before it arrives.

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Stages of Hurricanes in the Caribbean.

Stage I: Hurricane Watch

Hurricane watch means a hurricane may hit an area.

Stage II: Hurricane Warning means a hurricane is heading for an area.

Stage III: Radio and television help, “Radio and television keep people
informed about the weather conditions. The announcements tell the
people what to do. They may be told which areas to evacuate until the
winds or storms have ceased and which buildings are to be used as
shelters.

Hospitals and their Workers Help

Hospitals are very important. When people are hurt or injured, the
hospitals must be working well to take care of them. Every worker at the
hospitals should know exactly what he or she must do when disaster
strikes.

• Each hospital must be checked to make sure the building, roof and
windows are strong enough to withstand a hurricane.

• Announcements must be made so that the road to the hospital is kept

clear and free from parked cars, buses and vans.

• The hospital must also have extra stocks of foods, drugs and water
supplies. It should also have a generator for supplying electricity.

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Rebuilding after a Tropical Storm

When a tropical storm hits an area, the lives of people are affected.
Communities are left without potable water, electricity supply, and
transportation is disrupted. People are left homeless and without food.
Sometimes schools, offices and work-sites are forced to close after
destruction.

Aftermath of Hurricane

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TOPIC: Natural Disasters

SUB-TOPIC: Volcanoes

A volcano is an opening in the earth's surface through which melted rocks

known as lava, ashes and gases, escape through the opening with
explosive force. Volcanoes exist in three different states.

These states are active, dormant and extinct.

An active volcano can come to life or erupt at any time.

A dormant volcano is quiet or inactive for a period.

An extinct volcano can no longer come to life, or erupt.

In many parts of the world including the Caribbean volcanoes are active,
dormant or extinct.

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Some of the volcanoes of the Caribbean are South Soufriere in
Monsterrat, Mount Pele of Martinique, Mount Soufriere of St. Vincent and
Soufriere of St. Lucia.

Aftermath of volcanoes

Earthquakes

An earthquake is an intense shaking of the earth’s surface. The shaking is

caused by movements in the earth’s outermost layer.
Why Do Earthquakes Happen?

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Although the earth looks like a pretty solid place from the surface, it’s
actually extremely active just below the surface. The earth is made of four
basic layers: a solid crust, a hot, nearly solid mantle, a liquid outer core
and a solid inner core.

A diagram of earth's layers

Earthquakes have destroyed many Caribbean cities, towns and villages in

the last three hundred years; for example Port Royal, Jamaica in 1692,
Caracas Venezuela in 1812. In 1843 earthquake levelled buildings in
Guadeloupe and killed a third of the local population. In Guatemala in
1976, an earthquake left nearly 23,000 dead and billions of dollars in
damages.

Earthquakes usually take place in special areas of the earth. They

sometimes come without warning. If an earthquake occurs now, you
would be surprised. Some people would panic.

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Here are some things your teacher could do to prepare you, for an
earthquake:

• Gather the pupils of her class

.• Discuss what you could do if an earthquake strike.

• Select a place where everyone would meet to practice earthquake

drills.

• Name one or more safety spots in each room of your school.

• Practice first-aid and how to use a fire extinguisher,

• Make a list of essential things which should be kept in school. e.g. bottled
water, flashlights and radios (extra batteries too), essential medications.

What do you do when the shaking is over?

• Still remain calm

• Find out if anyone was injured

• Give first-aid

• Listen to the radio for instructions

Here are other things your teacher should do:

• Inspect the building for damages

• Listen to the radio or television for instructions

• Advise you if it is safe for you to go home alone.

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• Assist you if you are told to evacuate the area.

• Assist you to go to a shelter, if your school and/or home is unsafe.

Tsunamis are giant waves caused by earthquakes or volcanic eruptions

under the sea. Out in the depths of the ocean, tsunami waves do not
dramatically increase in height.

Aftermath of a Tsunami

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Forest Fire

Fires occur in forests, causing shrub and grasslands to burn. The

uncontrolled wildfires started by lightning or human carelessness. When
there is a forest fire it affects the animals living in the forest. It even caused
death and relocation of many animals and in some cases the extinction
of some animals. It also caused land pollution.

Forest fire

Floods

Flood is an overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry. Flood
is an area of study in the discipline of hydrology. It is the most common
and widespread natural severe weather event. Floods can look very
different because flooding covers anything from a few inches of water to
several feet. Floods are often caused by heavy rainfall, rapid snowmelt or
a storm surge from a tropical cyclone or tsunami in coastal areas. Some
floods are caused by humans. When kokers are left open it can cause
flooding.

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 Flood

Effects of floods

• In Guyana, flooding generally causes damage to property and

infrastructure, and agricultural losses.
• Flooding also increases the risk of waterborne diseases.
• However, the worst recorded flood event in Guyana in January, 2005
resulted in several deaths due to Leptospirosis.
• Lost of livestock due to drowning.
• Water is often contaminated during flooding making it difficult to get
potable water.
• The agricultural sector is mostly affected since there are damages to
crops and loss of livestock. This has a direct impact on the country’s
economy which is Agri-based.
• The issue of Flash Floods is exacerbated along coastal Guyana due
to a poorly maintained drainage system and the indiscriminate
disposal of solid waste into the drainage system.

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Chickens died from flooded waters

Picture of a flooded area on the Coastland.

Reducing flood by:

- Cleaning drain
- Planting trees
- Building kokers
- Stopping water pollution

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TOPIC: TRAFFIC RULES
SUB TOPIC: TRAVELLING BY LAND
Rules are there to protect us and keep us safe. When travelling on land
we must observe traffic rules.

TRAFFIC RULES TO OBSERVE ON LAND.

• Wear your seat belt.

• Observe road signs.
• Look out for pedestrians
• Do not use hand held devices while driving.
• Do not drink and drive.
• Observe speed limit.
• Pedestrians must observe the Kerb Drill and use the Pedestrian or
Zebra Crossing to get across the road.
• Always walk on the right hand side of the road. No more than two
abreast.
• Always wear white or light coloured clothing at nights to be easily
seen by drivers.

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 • Motorist must wear helmet when riding a motorcycle.
CONSEQUENCES OF NOT OBEYING TRAFFIC RULES

If road users disobey the traffic rules the consequences are:

• Persons can lose their lives.

• There would be damage to vehicles and properties.

• Losing property will take a long time to repair and the cost
incurred can be devastating.

• Injuring self and others which can be permanent with an

expensive medical bill.
• Losing Driver’s license or disqualifying from driving for twelve
months.
• Paying fines.

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 • Being imprisoned for reckless driving and causing death, if
charged.

BENEFITS OF FOLLOWING RULES WHEN TRAVELLING BY LAND

We must therefore appreciate our traffic rules. It keeps us safe.
By following the rules we are:
▪ ensuring that others road users are aware of rules.

▪ not liable for traffic violations.

▪ saving ourselves from fines.

▪ saving ourselves from injuries.

▪ saving lives.

▪ ensuring that our society is functioning smoothly.

TRAVELLING BY WATER
When travelling on water we must observe traffic rules.

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 ➢ Don’t overload the boat.

➢ Don’t stand and move around in a moving boat.

➢ Check the weather to make sure it is suitable to be travelling on

water.

CONSEQUENCES OF NOT OBEYING RULES WHEN TRAVELLING BY WATER.

➢ You can drown, if you fall into the water and are not wearing a life
jacket. Even if you are a good swimmer a fall can cause injury or
unconsciousness.
➢ If you do not wear life jacket properly (snug) it would not protect
you, if you fall into the water.
➢ If the boat operators do not check equipment regularly and follow
the rules a disaster can happen in the water. Rescuers or lifeguards
may be too late because of location.
➢ Drinking can affect judgement, vision, balance and
co-ordination causing you to injure yourself and others.

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BENEFITS OF FOLLOWING RULES WHEN TRAVELLING BY WATER

We need to follow rules while travelling on water. Rules will keep us safe
and prevent accidents.

➢ Wearing a life jacket can keep a victim’s head above the water so
they can breathe and be rescued easily.
➢ If you notice a sudden change in weather play it safe and avoid
travelling on water.
➢ Exercising good judgement by not drinking will save lives and
prevent injuries.
➢ Checking equipment to make sure everything is in good working
conditions will make safe travel; no worries of being stranded.
➢ In case of an emergency, a First Aid Kit will be useful.

A passenger wearing his lifejacket floating in water after falling off a

boat.

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TRAVELLING BY AIR

Pre-flight briefing by flight attendant.

RULES TO OBSERVE WHEN TRAVELLING BY AIR

➢ Listen to the flight attendants’ instructions.

➢ Keep your seat belt fasted while taking off and landing.
➢ Keep your seat belt fastened while you are seated.
➢ Don’t bring any hazardous material on a flight.
➢ Pay attention to preflight briefing.
➢ Let the flight attendant pour your hot drink.
➢ Use ear plugs or chewing gum when taking off and landing.
➢ Keep the overhead storage bin free of heavy articles and closed at
all times.

CONSEQUENCES OF NOT OBEYING SAFETY RULES IN THE AIR

➢ If you do not wear seat belt you can get injuries from flight
turbulence.
➢ If you do not listen to the flight attendant you can miss important
safety tips in case there is an emergency.
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 ➢ Heavy bags falling out of an overhead bin can cause serious
injuries.
➢ Even though there is a list of prohibited items, you still need to take
note of hazardous materials which can cause fires or explosion.
➢ You can get burn or injure someone, if you pour hot drink by
yourself.
➢ You can get temporary hearing loss.

BENEFITS OF FOLLOWING RULES TRAVELLING BY AIR

The only way to travel to some destination is by air. We travel for different
reasons and it is necessary that we follow rules or guidelines while
travelling by air. Even though people may have fear to travel by air they
cannot avoid it.
When we follow safety rules we are:

➢ Safe and we keep others safe.

➢ In case of emergency we know what to do and how to use

oxygen, parachute, and lifejacket after listen to flight attendant.

➢ We avoid getting burn by hot liquids.

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 ➢ Avoid causing an explosion or starting a fire.

➢ Avoid having to experience difficulty in hearing loss after flights.

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TOPIC: Weather and Climate (Natural Regions of Guyana)

SUB-TOPIC: Natural Regions and their Climatic Conditions.

• There are four Natural Regions of Guyana.

• One of the main reason for the country to be divided in Natural Regions is
because of the different climatic conditions they experience during the year.
The Natural Regions are:
• The Low Coastal Plain
• The Hilly Sand and Clay Region
• The Forested Highland Region
• The Interior Savannahs

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 Map showing the Natural Regions of Guyana.
Natural Regions Climate Other Patterns
The Low Coastal Plain 2 wet and 2 Enjoys the cooling breezes of
dry seasons the North-East trade winds
all year round.

The Hilly Sand and Clay Region One dry & one Hot days and cold nights.
wet season.
The Forested Highland Region Rainfall all year Hotter days and Cooler
round. night.
Hot wet .
climate.
The Interior Savannahs 6 months
rainfall and Cool throughout the day.
6 months
sunshine.

Facts about weather and climate.( Additional Reading)

• Weather is used to describe the conditions of the atmosphere over a short
period e.g. a day or a week.
• Climate is used to describe the average conditions of the atmosphere for long
periods e.g. a number of years.
• Climate is an important factor in the daily life of every person in Guyana.
• The people in every Natural Region in Guyana is accustomed to the climatic
condition all year around and build their livelihood around it.
• Lying near the equator, Guyana has a tropical climate, and temperatures do
not vary much throughout the year.
• The year has two wet seasons, from December to early February and from late
April to mid-August.

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 • Although the temperature never gets dangerously high, the combination of
heat and humidity can at times seem oppressive.
• The entire area is under the influence of the northeast trade winds, and during
the midday and afternoon sea breezes bring relief to the coast.
• Temperatures in Georgetown are quite constant, with an average high of 32 °C
(89.6 °F) and an average low of 24 °C (75.2 °F) in the hottest month (July), and
an average range of 29 to 23 °C (84.2 to 73.4 °F) in February, the coolest month.
• Humidity in the interior is also slightly lower.
• Rainfall is heaviest in the interior. Annual averages on the coast near the
Venezuelan border are near 2,500 millimetres (98.4 in), farther east at New
Amsterdam, between 2,000 and 1,500 millimetres (78.7 and 59.1 in) in
Guyana’s Rupununi Savannah.
• Areas on the northeast sides of mountains that catch the trade winds average
as much as 3,500 millimetres (137.8 in) of precipitation annually.
• Coastal areas have a second rainy season from November through January.
• Guyana is not affected by hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes or volcanoes
and although the rains are sometimes delayed, prolonged or severe droughts
are relatively rare.
Changes in weather patterns due to climate change
• Over the last century, Guyana has experienced significant changes in its
climate.
• The records suggest an increase by 1.0°C of the mean annual temperature
within the last century.
• In recent years, there has been many extreme weather events that have
resulted in high levels of flooding especially along the coast and in some inland
areas.
• In Guyana, it is projected that by the end of this century, temperatures can
increase by up to 4°C and weather patterns will become more extreme.
• Sea level is projected to rise at a rate of 1cm per year, about 40cm-60cm by the
end of the 21st century.

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 • Such rise in sea level will flood wetlands and lowlands; accelerate coastal
erosion; increase coastal flooding; threaten or destroy coastal structures; raise
water tables etc.

Flooding Coastal Erosion

Destruction to Coastal Sea Defense Structure

Adapting to Climate Change

• Adapting to climate change is one of the biggest challenges for Guyana.

• Guyana’s challenges are further enlarged with 90% of its population residing on
the low coastal plain; main agricultural lands; and all major administrative,
economic, services and infrastructure facilities.
• The coast is also relatively flat, which favours rapid accumulation of rainfall
runoff, and which makes natural drainage into the ocean very difficult. This
situation presents severe challenges to the drainage and irrigation system.
• Over the years, high levels of flooding were observed in the country especially
along the coast and in some inland areas.

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 • Climate change is likely to increase the frequency and intensity of flooding
events.
• Approximately 75% of the country’s economic activities are located on the
coastal area, where the major economic activities, such as agriculture, fisheries
and industries are found. These sectors are extremely sensitive to extreme
weather conditions and rise in sea-level and are therefore highly vulnerable to
climatic change.
• The country has already suffered greatly over the last decade from weather
related disasters.
• In December 2004 and January 2005, an unusual weather system produced
heavy rains which led to major flooding resulting in severe physical damage and
economic loss to the country, leading to the worst flooding event ever recorded
in Guyana’s history.
• The 2005 flood was concentrated in the most heavily populated regions of the
country, resulting in some 274,774 persons or 37% of the national population
being severely affected by the flood waters.
• The flooding event claimed the lives of persons.
• Although the country is very rich in natural resources, its economic base is very
narrow with a strong dependence on a very small range of primary products for
export. Nevertheless, despite its high vulnerability to the impacts of climate
change, Guyana has been undertaking significant efforts at the national and
international level to ease the effects.
• In 2010, the Government of Guyana launched the Guyana’s Low Carbon
Development Strategy (LCDS).
• The LCDS is an approach to address climate change. The LCDS aims to protect
and maintain the forests in an effort to reduce global carbon emissions and at
the same time attract payments from developed countries for the climate
services that the forests provide to the world.
• Payments will be invested to foster growth and development along a low
carbon emissions path.

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TOPIC: Weather and Climate (Natural Regions of Guyana)

SUB-TOPIC: Weather and Related Activities

Natural Regions Crops/Resources Activities done during

the wet/dry season.
Low Coastal Plain Rice, sugar-cane, etc. Agriculture, poultry
rearing
Hilly Sand and Clay Pine-apple, citrus fruits, Agriculture, logging,
Region. ground nuts, etc. mining, etc.

Forested Highland Timber, balata, minerals Logging, balata

Region. etc. bleeding, mining etc.

Interior Savannahs Cattle, ground Cattle rearing, peasant

provisions, peanuts etc. farming, etc.

Low Coastal Plain.

• On the Coastal Plain during the dry seasons farmers have to get water for their
crops. Irrigational canals have to bring water to the land in the dry season.
• In the wet season the excess water has to be drained from the land by pumps.
• Rice cultivation depends heavily on the knowledge of the weather. Farmers
must know when to reap and sow their crop.
• During the period of the wet season planting is done while reaping is done during
the dry season.

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 Draining the land

Reaping rice Sowing the seeds (paddy)

Forested Highland Region

• On the Forested Highland Region the heat, along with heavy rainfall influences
forest growth. Plant life is highly favoured by this type of climate.

Forest growth

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Interior Savannahs

• In the Interior Savannahs the rainfall pattern helps to determine the types of plant
which can be grown in this area.
• High temperature causes tropical vegetation/forests.
• Lack of moisture during the dry season results in grasslands – clumps, wiry and
tough.
• In the dry season, wetland areas recede and the landscape becomes open
savannahs.
• Soils in the open savannahs are poor in nutrients and therefore not well suited for
large-scale agriculture.
• Getting crops to produce sufficient food would require the application of
massive amounts of fertilizers and other chemicals, which could lead to pollution
of freshwater.
Wetlands.

• The Southern Rupununi Savannah undergoes a remarkable transformation

during the rainy season.
• Permanent wetlands expand reaching their fullest and vast areas flood,
becoming huge seasonal wetlands. These wetlands absorb, filter and store
vast amounts of freshwater.

Clumps

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 Hilly Sand and Clay Area

• The Hilly Sand and Clay Region is mostly covered in scrub, medium height
vegetation and hardwood due to the climatic conditions they experience.

70 | P a g e
TOPIC: Weather and Climate (Natural Regions of Guyana)

SUB-TOPIC: Effects of weather conditions on the Natural Regions.

Natural Regions of Effects of weather Picture

Guyana conditions

Low Coastal Plain -People’s lives are

affected by flooding
and high temperature.

-High temperature is
reduced by the use of Flooding
fans or by air
conditioning units.
However, this would
lead to higher
electricity bills.

People have to wear

Fans use in homes
clothing made from
cotton materials that
are loosely fitting to
keep them cool from
the hot weather.

Hilly Sand and Clay People, crops and

Region. livestocks are affected
by floods, and forest
fires.

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 Movement is restricted. Forest fires

Animals are removed

to higher ground for
safety.

Forested Highland -. Large swamps, dense

Region. forest and high lands
which make the
construction of roads
difficult and expensive
to build.

Construction of roads is difficult

-Makes the movement and expensive.
of goods and services
difficult due to poor
and inadequate trails,
etc.

Hilly Sand and Clay -Floods, rivers overflow,

Region. swamps and rapid
growth of vegetation.

-Pollution of rivers.

-Restricted movement.

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 -Threat of diseases e.g.
malaria from the
mosquitoes.
Poisoning from drinking
polluted water.

TOPIC-Health and Safety

SUB-TOPIC-Keeping Our Environment Healthy

All of man’s activities whether in the homes, factories or on the farms, produce some
amount of wastes. We must manage these wastes so as to maintain a healthy
environment.

Ways in which wastes are generated.

• When mother prepares meal, she gathers wastes from vegetables,

condiments and processed foods.

• When seamstress and tailors sew, there are always left –overs or pieces of cloth
and ends of thread.

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 • The farmers after cleaning and preparing their garden plots, gather tree
trimmings. These can be used as firewood for cooking.

• Even the smoke which comes from the baker shop’s chimney is waste.

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Managing Refuse.

• In most villages and scattered rural communities, the households may be

responsible for the disposal of their own refuse.
• Quite often it is burnt or buried.
• In cities, towns and some villages, the Town Council or Village Council provides
the service of refuse disposal. In communities such as these, the refuse is
collected and disposed of, by means of incinerating or land filling.

Garbage collection in City

Using the Incinerators

• Incinerators are mostly found in the city and other towns. They could be large
or small.
• Refuse from households, factories, hospitals, abattoirs, markets and other
places around the city is taken by special vehicles to the incinerators where
they are burnt regularly.
• Public Health Laws require that refuse from institutions such as health centers,
hospitals and abattoirs must be burnt in an incinerator. This is necessary to
prevent the spread of infectious and harmful diseases.

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 Incinerator

Using Landfills

Using a landfill for refuse disposal serves a double purpose:

(1) It is a way of getting rid of refuse.

(2) It could be means of building up low-lying surface.

• In low – lying areas the surface is graded to a certain dept.

• The refuse is dumped and compressed. When there is enough refuse, the
dump is covered.
• From time to time the dump is treated with chemicals.
• When completed, this area is planted with grass.
• If properly prepared, this method of refuse disposal is free from dust, flies and
other nuisance.

Landfills

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Ways to Keep the Environment Clean

Ways to Keep the Description Example

Environment Clean

Stop pollution Ensure that you do not

pollute the environment.

Do your best to ensure

Make sure your
the wastes you dispose of
wastes go to the
ends up where it should.
right place.

Recycle materials in your

area.

To prevent your garbage

from ending up in the
environment keep a lid

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 on your trash can when it
is outside.

Make a Compost. Composting at home

reduces the volume of
garbage sent to landfills
and reduces the chance
of some products
becoming marine debris.

Plant trees Planting trees will beautify

the environment. It will
also reduce the carbon
dioxide in the
environment.

Volunteer in
cleaning up

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 exercises in the Volunteer to be a part of
community. cleaning up exercises in
the community.

Remember to bring
Reuse Materials.
reusable bags to the
grocery stores or for any
other shopping activities.
This will help to reduce
the consumption of
disposable bags.

Acquiring a reusable
water bottle would not
only greatly reduce the
amount of single-use
plastic you use, but it
would also save you
money in the long run.

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TOPIC-Health and Safety

SUB-TOPIC-Pollution

Pollution happens when the environment is contaminated by wastes, chemicals, and

other harmful substances. The main forms of pollution are land, water, air and noise.

Air Pollution

• Air pollution is the contamination of the air.

• Wildfires, volcanoes, and industrial chemicals cause air pollution.
• Most air pollution comes from the burning of fossil fuels. These include coal, oil,
and natural gas. Factories, electrical plants, and automobiles burn these fuels
for power.
• The burning of fossil fuels may release solid particles, such as ash and soot, into
the air. It also may release harmful gases.
• This type of pollution may be seen in the form of smog over big cities. Smog-
filled air is hazy, or hard to see through.
• Air pollution may cause diseases such as cancer, bronchitis and asthma. Air
pollution also leads to acid rain, or polluted rain that can harm living things.
• In addition, air pollution may be a cause of global warming, which is a steady
rise in Earth’s average temperature.
• Finally, air pollution damages a part of the atmosphere called the ozone layer.
• The ozone layer is important because it protects Earth against harmful rays
from the sun.

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Water Pollution

• Water pollution occurs when harmful substances such as chemicals or

microorganisms contaminate a stream, river, lake, ocean, or other body of
water, degrading water quality and rendering it toxic to humans or the
environment.
Causes of water pollution

• Some causes of water pollution are easy to see. People dump garbage and
sewage into creeks, rivers, ponds, lakes, and oceans. Factories or cities
sometimes release oils, poisonous chemicals, and other wastes into water.
• Other causes of water pollution are not so direct. The use of chemicals in
farming is one example. Farmers use chemicals such as fertilizers, or any other
substance to the soil to help crops grow. They also use other chemicals such as
pesticides or herbicides. These are substances that kill pests or weeds. When
these chemicals seep into the ground, they may make the groundwater unfit
to drink.
• Chemicals also may drain into rivers and lakes, where they can harm fish and
other aquatic life.
• Toxic household and industrial wastes released into water bodies also pollute
the water.
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 • Other sources include oil spills and marine dumping in sea water causes
pollution and affects marine life.

Effects of water pollution.

• It may lead to a number of diseases like cholera, diarrhea and typhoid.

• It may cause harm to fishes and other aquatic life.

Land Pollution

• Littering, or tossing garbage on the ground, is a form of land pollution. Litter is

unpleasant to look at, it can also destroy the habitats / homes, of plants and
animals.
• The buildup of dangerous chemicals in the ground is another form of land
pollution. The chemicals may come from farms or factories. These chemicals
can spread to plants and animals. They may even harm people who consume
the contaminated plants and animals.
• Dumping of solid wastes such as plastic bags, glass bottles and metal
containers.
• The soil gets polluted by chemicals in pesticides and herbicides when used for
agricultural purposes along with waste matter being littered in urban areas
such as roads, parks and streets.

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Noise pollution

• Noise pollution is a threat to health and a nuisance to quietness and happiness.

It is a destroyer of peace and poison to a healthy existence. Noise can be
defined as any undesirable sound. Noise is measured in decibel units (dB).
Causes of noise pollution

• Traffic build up – when there is a long stream of traffic motorists tend to honk
their horns constantly. This behaviour can result in noise pollution.
• Aircraft – noise pollution occur at landing and taking off time.
• Industrial operations can cause noise pollution, factory equipment, generators,
electric saws, drills and other machines when in use produce loud sounds that
are unpleasant to the ears.
• High volume of music from stereo sets and motor vehicles.

Effects of Noise pollution

• It can cause damage to the microscopic cells in the inner ears, thus resulting in
deafness.
• It can also cause tension headaches.
• People can become irritable and often behave irrationally.
• It can cause stress and sets people’s nerves on edge both physically and
emotionally.
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Controlling Pollution

• Many governments, environmental groups, and ordinary people are working to

control pollution.
• Governments have passed laws to keep people from releasing dangerous
chemicals into the environment.
• Government imposed fines for littering.
• Some companies and people are trying to use fewer fossil fuels. Instead they
are getting power from sunlight, wind, water, and other energy sources that
produce less pollution.
• Many communities use recycling to reduce pollution. Recycling is the process
of making new products out of used paper, plastic, glass, aluminum, or other
materials.

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TOPIC: - Health and Safety

Sub-Topic-Drugs

• A drug is a substance which, when taken into the body, modifies the body’s
function either physically or psychologically. Drugs affects your mind and body.
Some drugs are beneficial, while others are harmful.
How drugs are taken

People take drugs in different ways. Some Common methods include:

• Swallowing tablets or drinking liquids — the body absorbs the drug through the
stomach lining.
• Inhalation — the body absorbs the drug through the lining of the lungs.
• Snorting into the nose — the body absorbs the drug through the thin nasal
lining.
• Injecting — the user injects the drug directly into the bloodstream
• Through the skin — the body slowly absorbs the drug from a cream or patch.

Type of drug Effect on the body Example

Slows down nerve and brain

Depressant
activity.

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 Type of drug Effect on the body Example

Alcohol

Alters what we see and

Hallucinogen
hear.

Salvia

Aspirin, paracetamol

Painkiller Blocks nerve impulses.

Anabolic steroids

Performance Improves muscle

enhancer development.

Increases nerves and brain

Stimulant Nicotine, caffeine, ecstasy
activities.

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 Type of drug Effect on the body Example

Classification of drugs

Drugs are classified as:

➢ legal drugs
➢ Illegal drugs

Legal drugs

Drugs are of two types- legal and illegal drugs.

Legal drugs can either be bought over-the-counter or with a prescription from a

medical doctor. Some prescription drugs are misused and taken for recreational use,
rather than for medical reasons.

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 Examples prescription drugs

Examples of Over-the Counter Drugs

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Illegal drugs

Illegal drugs cannot legally be manufactured, bought or sold.

Some examples of illegal drugs are:

• Cannabis (Marijuana)
• Cocaine
• Ecstasy
• Hallucinogens
• Heroin
• Ketamine
• Methamphetamine

Why people use drugs

People use drugs for several reasons. These are:

✓ Wanting to fit in
✓ Peer pressure
✓ Curiosity and to experiment
✓ Relaxation
✓ To be in control
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 ✓ To rebel
✓ Misinformation or ignorance
✓ To enhance performance
What is addiction?
'Addiction' is a mental disorder characterized by compulsive consumption or
behaviours despite the negative consequences.
When someone first starts to use drugs, it is
called substance abuse. We say someone is an
addicted to drugs when they have no control over
whether they want to use the drug or not. That
person feels that they must have that drug.

Types of addiction
There are two types of addiction.
• Physical addiction is when a person's body becomes
dependent on something.
• After a while that person's body craves more and
more for it, so he/she can just feel and function
normally.
• Trying to give up can make that person suffer
withdrawal symptoms which can last for quite a long
time, but slowly get less as the body gets used to
doing without the drug.
• Psychological addiction is when someone craves something which will change
his/ her mood or feelings.
• They may not get physical withdrawal symptoms, but they may feel lonely,
depressed or anxious if they can't get the things they desire.

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 A depress drug addict.

What can be addictive?

People can become addicted to a wide range of things.

➢ Drugs - legal and illegal drugs. Examples:

• Alcohol
• tobacco
• marijuana

➢ Some medications inhalants. Examples:

• sniffing glue or petrol.
➢ People can also become addicted to negative behaviours, which take over
their lives. Examples:
• harmful or risky behaviours - such as breaking things, vandalism, stealing.
• hurting themselves - like cutting their bodies.
• compulsive behaviours (compulsive means that they feel they have to do it to
feel better about themselves).

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 Compulsive behaviours can include:
• eating disorders, like bingeing on food and then making themselves vomit.
• compulsive exercise, where they are constantly exercising to make themselves
feel good, but are really harming their bodies.
• gambling, video games, mobiles and SMS, and chatting on the internet
unnecessarily.

Addiction to games on the internet

Signs of addiction
If someone you care about is showing several of these signs, then they could be
suffering from an addiction and needs help. Some signs are: when someone uses
drugs or alcohol to get away from problems or as a usual way to relax.

1. When someone seems to 'drop out' of life among family and friends.
2. When someone loses interest in something that used to be a big interest.
3. Lagging behind with school work, or getting behind with workload.
4. Avoiding friends, or hanging out with children
who use drugs.
5. Selling their stuff or stealing yours.
6. Being very moody and behaving in ways which
are unlike their usual behaviour.
7. Getting upset, anxious or really depressed.
8. Having problems with sleeping or getting out of
bed.

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 9. Being sick or shaky.
10. Changes in eating - maybe too much or not enough, or eating at 'different' times.
11. Putting on weight or rapidly losing weight.
12. Checking their phone, messaging or talking on it even when they are with other
people.
13. Spending a lot of time playing games on their computer or tablet or phone so they
don't get to be with 'real people.

What can you do about addiction?

If someone you care about is suffering from an addiction you can:

• Tell that person that you care about them and are worried about what they are
doing.
• Tell someone you trust about it.
• Do some research on whatever they are using or doing and show them or tell them
what you have found.
• Think about your trusted adults and talk to them until something is done.
• Encourage them to be more active and join in with others.

How you can keep yourself safe?

Keep yourself safe by:

o asking smokers not to smoke near you.

o avoiding being around someone who is addicted to alcohol or drugs.
o telling someone if you feel unsafe.
o not being around with that person or their friends.
o not making the mistake of thinking what that person is doing must be cool because
they are older than you.
o never try whatever drug they are using.

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TOPIC: Caricom

SUB TOPIC: Definition

Objective

Structure
➢ Caricom is an acronym meaning Caribbean Community and
Common Market.
➢ Caricom has four main objectives:
• economic integration
• foreign policy coordination
• human and social development
• security

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 Structure of Caricom
➢ Caricom consists of several councils and committees.
➢ The committees and councils work together to ensure the
objectives of Caricom are achieved.
➢ The highest decision making forum of Caricom is the Heads of
Government Conference.
➢ This Conference is presided by a Chairman who is the head of a
Caricom member state. The Chairmanship rotates among heads of
member states.
➢ There is also a Caricom Secretariat which oversee the day – to –
day management of the organisation.
➢ The secretariat is head by a Secretary General.
➢ The secretariat of Caricom is located at Liliendaal, Georgetown,

Guyana.

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 Organizational Structure of Caricom

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SUB-TOPIC: Development

Founder Members

Member States
➢ CARICOM was established after CARIFTA came to an end in 1973.
➢ The Caribbean Community /Caricom was established on July 04,
1973 with the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas.
➢ However, The CARICOM movement came into effect on August 01,
1973.
➢ The treaty was signed by the Heads of Government of: -
• Barbados - Errol Barrow
• Guyana- Linden Forbes Burnham
• Jamaica – Michael Manley
• Trinidad & Tobago – Eric Williams
➢ These four countries are the founding members of Caricom.
➢ Subsequently, eight other territories joined CARICOM. The Bahamas
became the 13th member state on July 04, 1983 and Suriname 14th
member in July 1995. In July 1997, Haiti was welcomed into the
community.
➢ The CARICOM Secretariat is located in Georgetown, Guyana and is
organized Trade and Agriculture, Economics and Industry,
Functional Co-operation, Legal Division, General Services and
Administration.
➢ A revised Treaty of Chaguaramas establishing the Caribbean
Community including the CARICOM Single Market and Economy
(CSME) was signed by Heads of Government on 5th July 2001.
➢ The revised Treaty includes the establishment and implementation
of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ ).
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 West Indian CARIFTA CARICOM
Federation

• Jan,1958- • 1968 - 1973 • 1973 - Present

May,1962

Diagram above shows the development that lead to the establishment

of CARICOM.

➢ The member states of CARICOM are: -

• Antigua and Barbuda • Jamaica
• The Bahamas • Montserrat
• Barbados • St. Kitts and Nevis
• Belize • St. Lucia
• Dominica • St. Vincent and the
• Grenada Grenadines
• Guyana • Suriname
• Haiti • Trinidad and Tobago
➢ Associate member states of CARICOM: -
• Anguilla • The Cayman Islands
• Bermuda • Turks and Caicos
• The British Virgin Islands
Note
➢ All of the associate member states are British Overseas Territories.

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SUB-TOPIC: Country Profile

Communication in CARICOM

The role of communication in CARICOM

Communication in CARICOM

Flags of Member States of Caricom

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 Map of showing Caricom Member States

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 Heads of states of CARICOM

Antigua and Barbuda: Gaston

Bahamas: Hubert Minnis Haiti: Jovenel Moïse
Browne

Barbados: Mia Mottley Belize: Dean Barrow Guyana: Mohamed Irfaan Ali

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Dominica: Roosevelt Skerrit Grenada: Keith Mitchell Saint Kitts and Nevis: Timothy
Harris

Montserrat : Joseph Easton Saint Lucia: Allen Michael

Jamaica: Andrew Holness
Taylor Farrell Chastanet

Saint Vincent and the

Trinidad and Tobago: Keith Rowley
Grenadines: Suriname: Chan Santokhi
Ralph Gonsalves

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 Caricom Country Profile

Caricom National Political

Capital Airport Imports Exports
Countries Festival Status
Foodstuff,
Antigua & Vere Bird Summer machinery Cotton, Rum, Independent /
St. John’s
Barbuda international Carnival Transport Tourism Nov 1, 1981
equipment
Crayfish,
Tourism,
Nassau Machinery Cucumber,
The Independent /
Nassau International Junkanoo Clothing Tomatoes,
Bahamas July 10, 1973
Freeport Fresh meat Coconuts,
Sponges,
Lumber
Sugar,
Foodstuff Clothing,
Grantley Adams Fuels Electrical Independent /
Barbados Bridgetown Crop Over
International Lubricants building Equipment, Nov 30, 1966
materials textiles Rum,
Molasses
Sugar,
Vehicles textiles Molasses,
Machinery Clothing,
Phillip Goldson Independent /
Belize Belmopan Garifuna Building materials Mahogany,
International Sept 21, 1981
petroleum Citrus Fruits,
Foodstuff Fish, Shrimp,
Lobster
Coconuts
Foodstuff
and
Melville Hall Manu-factured Independent /
Dominica Roseau Domfesta Coconuts
Canefield Goods, machinery Nov 3, 1978
Products,
and equip-ment
Citrus Fruits
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 Caricom National Political
Capital Airport Imports Exports
Countries Festival Status
and Citrus
Fruit Products,
Bananas
Nutmeg and
Beverages Species,
Point salines Independent /
Grenada St. George Carnival Tobacco Cocoa,
International Feb 7, 1974
Fuel equipment Bananas,
Mace
Fuel lubricants Bauxite,
Machinery Alumina,
Transport Sugar, Rice, Republic / Feb
Cheddi Jagan
Mashrama Equipment Timber, Citrus 23, 1970
Guyana Georgetown International
ni Manufactured Fruits, Gold, Independent /
Airport
goods Diamonds, May 26, 1966
fertiliser Shrimp,
Prawns
Foodstuff Coffee, Independent /
Port – au –
Haiti Port – au- Prince Carnival Manu-factured Sugar, Rice, Dec 31, 1804
Prince
goods fuel Bananas (Republic)
Alumina,
Bauxite,
Fuel machinery Sugar, Rum,
Norman Manley
Transport Molasses,
International Jamaica Independent /
Jamaica Kingston equipment Bananas,
DonaldSangster Festival Aug 6, 1962
Electrical Citrus Fruits
International
equipment fertilizer and Citrus
Fruit Products,
Cement

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 Caricom National Political
Capital Airport Imports Exports
Countries Festival Status
Food
Blackbourne Hot Peppers,
Christmas Machinery Colony of
Montserrat Plymouth Airfield Tomatoes,
Festival Transport Great Britain
Gerald Heliport Cotton, Limes
equipment
Manufactured
goods machinery Beer, Ale,
Saint Kitts Robert Bradshaw December Independent /
Basseterre transport Cotton,
& Nevis International Carnival Sept 19, 1983
equipment mineral Lobster
fuels lubricants
Beverages Bananas,
Foodstuff Unrefined
Hewanorra
Tobacco and Refined
International
Flower Fuels Cotton Oil,
Vieux Forte Independent /
Saint Lucia Castries Festival La Manufactured Cardboard
George Feb 22, 1979
Rose goods Boxes, Fruits,
Charles
Machinery Vegetables,
International
And transport Coconut
equipment Meal, Cocoa
Foodstuff
Ebenezer Banana,
St. Vincent Beverages
Joshua James Arrowroot, Independent /
& Kingstown Carnival Machinery
Mitchell Sweet Oct 27, 1979
Grenadine Transport
International Potatoes
equipment
Minerals E.G.
Bauxite, Gold,
Johann Adolph Independent /
Petroleum,
Suriname Paramaribo Pengel Carnival machinery Nov 25, 1975
Kaolin; Rice,
International (Republic)
Oilpalm,
Bananas;

105 | P a g e
 Caricom National Political
Capital Airport Imports Exports
Countries Festival Status
Fisheries E.G.
Prawns
Cocoa,
Machinery
Crude
Piarco Fabricated metals
Petroleum,
Trinidad & Port – of – International transport Independent /
Carnival Petroleum
Tobago Spain Crown Point equipment Aug 31, 1962
Products,
International manufactured
Ammonia,
goods
Methanol

106 | P a g e
CARICOM Member States Currency

Countries Currency Countries Currency

Antigua and East Caribbean Guyana Guyanese dollar
Barbuda Dollar
The Bahamas Bahaman Dollar Jamaica Jamaican dollar
Belize Belize Dollars Montserrat East Caribbean
Dollar
Dominica East Caribbean St. Kitts and Nevis East Caribbean
Dollar Dollar
Grenada East Caribbean St.Lucia East Caribbean
Dollar Dollar
Countries Currencies Countries Currencies
St. Vincent East Caribbean Haiti Haitian Gourde
Dollar
Suriname Suriname Dollar Barbados Barbados Dollar
Trinidad and Trinidad and
Tobago Tobago Dollar

The role of communication in CARICOM

➢ Communication is vital to the success of the Caribbean

Community.
➢ It is through the sharing of information that member states can:
• Learn of employment opportunities
• Discuss ways of cooperating
• Learn of issues affecting member states
• Share successes of member states.
➢ Caricom member states have to be in constant contact with
each other if they are to achieve the objectives of this
organisation.
➢ Some organisation of communication within Caricom are:
• Caribbean News Agency (CANA) - Barbados
• National Communication Network (NCN) – Guyana
• News Talk 93.7 Jamaica
• Trinidad Express

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TOPIC: LEADERS
SUB TOPIC: WHO IS A LEADER?
A Leader is a person who is willing to take charge and lead.
A leader is the one in charge, the person who convinces other
people to follow. A great leader inspires confidence in other people
and moves them to action.

WAYS PEOPLE BECOME LEADERS

People become leaders by selection, election, by the job they do,
volunteering or by hierarchical structure.
WAYS PEOPLE BECOME LEADERS EXAMPLES
Elected leaders President, Prime Minister,
Opposition Leaders, Mayors,
Chairman, Chief,
Captain/Touchau etc.

Hierarchical structure King/Queen

Volunteering These leaders may belong to

groups.
Examples are Lions Club, Rotary
Club

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 By the job they do Education Officers, Managers,
Head teachers, Supervisors,
Chief, Commander, Directors.

Selection Pandit, Priest, Prefect

DUTIES OF POLITICAL LEADERS

President Prime Minister

His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali

Some duties of the Prime Minister

Some duties of the President are:
are:
• He is the Head of State.
▪ Determines the general
▪ He serves as Commander-
direction of Government's
in - Chief of the Armed
activities.
Forces.
▪ Ensures coordinated and
▪ He supervises the Executive
purposeful work of the
Branch of Government.
Cabinet of Ministers.
▪ Appoints and removes
▪ The Prime Minister leads
Executive Officials.

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 ▪ Receives ambassadors.
▪ Grants amnesties and
pardons.
the work of the Cabinet of
Ministers.
▪ Functions in the position of
the president in his
absence.

Some Regional Chairman and Vice Chairman

Leaders of our Region

• Guyana has ten Administrative regions.
• These regions are run by a special body of leaders called the
Regional Democratic Council (R.D.C).
• This council is usually headed by the Regional Chairman or
Chairwoman.
• They look after the affairs of the region they represent.

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 • They make Central Government aware of problems in the
region.
• They ensure that decisions arrived at, are carried out.

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 Mayor and City Councillors
Leaders of our city and towns are the Mayor and Councillors.
Some of their duties are:

• Keeping the environment of the towns clean by providing

garbage disposal services.
• Repairing streets and bridges.
• Maintaining market and abattoirs.
• Maintaining parks, avenues and other recreational facilities.
• Inspecting restaurants and other eating houses.
• Maintaining services such as potable water and drainage
facilities.

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DUTIES OF RELIGIOUS LEADERS
Religious Leaders
Imam Pastor Pandit

Priest

Religious Leaders are very important to our community.

• They help to raise awareness.
• Influence attitudes, behaviours and practices of its members.
• The followers listen to their teachings and adopt healthy
lifestyles and practices.
• They help the government to reach out to the people in
difficult times.
• The people look to their leaders for direction and guidance.

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DUTIES OF OTHER LEADERS.

Other Leaders

Chief of Staff of the Business Manager Director of

Defence Force Organisation

Makes the strategic

Supervises and leads a
and operational
Directing, managing company's operations
decisions of the
and overseeing all and employees.
company and
policy development,
ensures that the
daily operations, and
company meets its
staff activities for the
statutory obligations.
President

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 Rotary Club Leaders of GTU Teacher

Plans and Communicates and

Inspires, motivates,
leads club meetings, negotiates on behalf
encourages and
sets goals, of the teachers' for
educates learners.
encourages better salaries and
communication working conditions and
between clubs. for the improvement of
teachers’ welfare.

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TOPIC: Our Community
SUB-TOPIC: Guyana’s Immediate Continental Neighbours

COUNTRY CAPITAL OFFICIAL MAIN CURRENCY

LANGUAGE EXPORT
Brazil Brasilia Portuguese Coffee Real
and timber Previously used
Cruzeiro and
Cruzado
Suriname Paramaribo Dutch Alumina Suriname dollar
Javanese, Hindi and rice
and English are
also spoken

Venezuela Caracas Spanish Petroleum Bolivar (named

and after Simon
petroleum Bolivar, a national
products hero of
Venezuela)

116 | P a g e
TOPIC: Our Community
SUB-TOPIC: Guyana’s Continental Neighbours
Map showing the continent of South America
South America is the 4th largest
continent.
It is made up of 13 countries.
All of the countries are independent
except French Guiana.
It has the world’s largest rainforest.
There are 9 Spanish speaking
countries, Guyana is the only
English-speaking country in South
America.
Brazil is the largest country in South
America and the 5th largest in the
world.

Guyana’s other Continental Neighbours

Country Capital
Argentina Buenos Aires
Bolivia La Paz
Chile Santiago
Colombia Bogota
Ecuador Quito
French Guiana Cayenne
Paraguay Asuncion
Peru Lima
Uruguay Montevideo

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 TOPIC: Our Community
SUB-TOPIC: Guyana’s Continental Neighbours (Continued)
Country Capital Currency Main Export Language

Argentina Buenos Peso Wheat Spanish

Aires Corn English
Soybean Italian
Bolivia La Paz Bolivian Natural gas Spanish
Peso, Gold Aymara
Boliviano Silver Quechua
Tin
Chile Santiago Peso Petroleum Spanish
Natural gas
Copper
Colombia Bogota Peso Coffee Spanish
Minerals- such as emerald

Ecuador Quito Sucre Banana Spanish

Quechua
French Cayenne French Bauxite French
Guiana franc
Paraguay Asuncion Paraguaya Cotton fiber Spanish
n Peso Soy beans Guarani
Processed meat
Peru Lima Nuevo Sol Copper Spanish
Lead
Uruguay Montevid Uruguayan Textile Spanish
eo new Peso Textile products
Wool

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TOPIC: The Family
SUB-TOPIC: The People Who Came
The family is made up of one race which is the human race. The
human race was first divided into three main groups:

Negroid (black)

Mongoloid (yellow)

Caucasoid (white)

Over the years, these groups have inter-married, causing the world
to have varying ethnic groups. In Guyana, there are six main ethnic
groups:

Amerindians

Europeans

Africans

Portuguese

East Indians

Chinese

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There is a seventh ethnic group, made up of any two or more of the
above, to form the mixed race.

THE AMERINDIANS
The Amerindians were the first set of people to live in Guyana.

The Amerindians are the Indigenous people of Guyana (first

people)

Amerindians were also called the American Indians

The Amerindians came from Asia, in a place called Mongolia

The Amerindians crossed the Bering Strait to reach North

America

Alaska is the first part of America the Amerindians reached.

The Bering Strait is a narrow body of water which was frozen at

that time

The frozen body of water was also called the Ice Bridge

The Ice Bridge connected Asia and North America

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 They crossed the Ice Bridge/ Bering Strait by following animals
and as a result they eventually reached North, Central, and
South America and the Caribbean in search of food.

The Amerindians left Asia during the Ice age, following animals
(buffalo and seals) as they moved from one feeding ground to
another (continent or country).

Guyana is a part of the continent of South America

They are nine Amerindian Tribes in Guyana. FOUR main tribes

and FIVE sub tribes that settled in Guyana

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The Four main Amerindian tribes were
The Arawaks

Caribs

Warraus

Wapishanas

The Five sub tribes

Patamonas

Makusi

Wai Wais

Akawaios

Arecunas

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 The Amerindians came to Guyana in search of:

warm climate.

The Amerindians depend on the animals for their food and as

the animals moved, they moved also.

THE WAY OF LIFE

The Amerindians were hunters and fishermen.

They knew how to trap animals for food.

They were skillful in making weapons out of stones and bones.

They used their stone and bone knife to scrape the skin of
animals to make clothing.

They later learned how to cultivate the land and produce food
from plants.

Therefore, we can say that the Amerindians obtained their food from

Farming

Hunting

Fishing

Some foods that they plant (food from roots):

Yams

Cassava

Sweet potatoes

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Food from seed:
Maize

Peanut

They use these foods as their main diet (staples)

Cassava is used to prepare food such as cassava bread,

casreep, farine etc.

Casreep is used to make pepper pot.

Farine is used to make drink such as alcoholic beverages like

piwari and cassiri.

DANCE
Mari Mari

Baboon

Carrion crow

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BELIEFS
Each Amerindian tribe has its own beliefs and customs, for example,
Patamonas believe in Mokanaima who is their God or the supreme
being.
The Amerindians believe in spirit Gods, for example;
Makonama- the supreme God of heaven and earth.
Pujaikma- mountain spirit of diseases such as influenza etc.

Maigok- a forest spirit who is invisible (who you cannot see)

when he attacks, he causes vomiting, fever and fits

Kanaima- an evil male spirit which goes around killing other

Amerindians for some wrong they did him/her or members of
his/her family.

Massacuraman

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 Bush dai dai

CONTRIBUTION TO GUYANESE SOCIETY

Amerindians contribution to the Guyanese Society:

They named rivers (Cuyuni Mazarun)

Water falls (kaieteur Fall, Amatuk water fall)

Guiana (Guyana) is an Amerindian word meaning” Land of

many waters” or watery country.

Mashramani – means celebration after hard cooperative work.

Food (tasso, pepper pot, cassava bread)

CRAFTS
The following are made by the Amerindians.
Hammocks which is used by many Guyanese

Nibbi furniture

Baskets

Tibisiri mat

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 Ornaments

Jewellery which are made from beads

Amerindian settled in places like:

Mahaica

Mahaicony

Abary river

Mazuruni river

Orealla

Pakaraima

Pomeroon

The head of an Amerindian settlement or reservation is called

CAPTAIN or TOUCHAU.

Amerindians traditional homes are called benabs.

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Their homes are made out of:

*Troolie palm

*Eta palm

*Shingle

*Wood bark

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THE EUROPEANS
The Europeans were the second set of people to arrive in British
Guiana. (Guyana)

Four (4) groups of Europeans came to British Guiana (Guyana), there

are:

Dutch from the Netherlands

Spanish from Spain

French from France

English from England

These groups all came from the continent of Europe.

Reason why the Europeans came to Guiana (Guyana):

They came in search for the golden city of Eldorado.

They came in search of new lands.

Reasons why the Europeans settled:

They came to cultivate the soil.

To trade with the Amerindians.

The Europeans traded with the Amerindian through a system called

Barter.

Bartering is the exchange of goods and services without the use of

money.

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The Europeans exchanged with the Amerindians:

Knives

Axes

Lengths of cloth

Coloured beads

The Amerindians exchange with the Europeans:

Hemp (used for making rope for ships)

Annatto dye (dye cloth)

Food stuff (butter, cheese)

In order for the Europeans to trade with the Amerindians they had to
setup trading post, where the two groups could meet to barter.

The Europeans built forts to protect themselves from invaders.

The Dutch were the first to set up trading post and built forts.

Some forts were:

Fort Kyk-over-al (see overall) can be found at the confluence (where

two or more rivers meet) of the Essequibo River, Cuyuni and
Mazaruni River.

Fort Zeelandia (Flag Island) can be found at the mouth of the

Essequibo River.

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Fort Nova Zeelandia can be found up the Pomeroon River.

Fort St. Andries which was built at the confluence (where two or
more rivers meet) of the Canje and Berbice River.

Fort Nassau was built fifty miles up the Berbice River.

The European recognized that the soil was suitable for cultivating
tobacco and other crops.

Due to the demand for tobacco in Europe the Europeans decided

to plant tobacco in British Guiana, then later planted cotton and
sugar.

Sugar was also needed for making cakes, biscuits and sweetener for
beverages.

In order to meet the demand for sugar the European enslaved the
Amerindians.

Many of the Amerindians ran away into the forest because they
were not accustomed to hard work on the plantation, while many of
them died from diseases brought by the Europeans.

In order to continue the cultivation when the Amerindians ran away,

the Europeans decided to use Africans as slaves.
After slavery was abolished, they used the Portuguese, East-Indians
and Chinese as indentured labourers.

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CONTRIBUTIONS MADE BY THE EUROPEANS
• Language- English

Guyana was a colony of the English- speaking country of Great

Britain.

• Food such as pastries, puddings, pies

• clothing- dress, suit and tie, aprons

Places that were named by the English

Bourda Wales

Lethem Anna Regina

Kingston Charity

Victoria Georgetown

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Places named by the Dutch

Stabroek Vreed-en-Hoop

Beterverwagting Soesdyke

Uitvlugt

Places named by the French

La Repentir Malgretout

La Resouvenir La Grange

Chateau Margot

Places named by the Spanish

Santa Rosa

El Dorado

The Europeans were the first to build churches and schools.

The first church was the Roman Catholic Church.

The Dutch divided Guyana into three counties and each county
had its own capital at that time.

Europeans made crafts out of pottery:

Vase

Mug

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THE AFRICANS
The Africans who came to the Caribbean and Guyana came from
off the coast of West Africa in the continent of Africa.

They were the third ethnic group who came to British

Guiana.(Guyana)

Some countries Africans came from are:

The Congo

Cameroon

Togo

Mali

Gambia

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Slavery was existing in Africa before the Europeans brought it here
in Guyana.
Africans came to Guyana as slaves to work on the sugar
plantations.

A slave is someone who works very hard without being paid.

The system under which the slaves worked and lived was called
SLAVERY.

They came by ships and had to cross the Atlantic Ocean.

The journey from Africa to the Caribbean and Guyana was called
the Middle Passage.

It was a horrifying experience for the slaves which lasted from six
to ten weeks.

The journey of the Europeans from Europe to Africa and the

Caribbean and back to Europe was called the Triangular Trade.

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The Europeans obtained slaves by:

Capturing them and luring them into ships.

Capture through tribal wars.

Raiding parties.

Slaves experienced some difficulties during the middle passage

The men were chained with iron shackles around their ankles and
joined by chains looped to the shackles of their neighbours.

The women and children were packed below deck.

There were food shortages, many Africans died from hunger while
many others killed themselves in the Atlantic Ocean.

When the Africans reached Guyana, they were exchanged for

goods since there was no common currency existing in West
Africa.

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Some of the goods were:

Pieces of cloth

Gold dust

Copper bars

Knives

Glass beads

Cutlass

Liquor

Life on the plantation for the Africans

The homes the Africans lived in was called adobe which was
made of very flimsy materials.

It was very low and had no chimney ventilation.

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Each family had an iron pot and a blanket for each individual to
sleep on at night.

Africans were given clothing once a year or twice in every

eighteen months. (18)

The men received a coarse woolen jacket, hat and canvas which
made trousers.

The women were given the same kind of clothing while those who
had young children were given a hammock called baba.

Their food consisted of vegetables and salted fish. Whenever

plantain, cassava and yam were grown, they formed the main
diet of the slaves.

Difficulties faced on the plantation

Some difficulties the Africans faced on the plantations were:

They had to work for very long hours (6am to 6pm daily)

They were given their first meal at midday.

They were beaten or flog with a whip.

Some slaves were branded with hot iron, hung on wheels and had
parts of their bodies chopped off.

Types of slaves:

House or Domestic slaves.

Field slaves who worked in the cane fields.

Factory slaves who worked in the factory.

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Due to harsh punishment slaves rebelled.

Some rebellions or revolt by the slaves were:

Berbice Slave Rebellion- took place on the 23rd February 1763 on

plantation Magdalenenburg, led by Cuffy

East Coast Slave Insurrection- took place in August 1823 on

plantation Le Resouvenir.

In remembrance of these slaves, monuments were erected

1763 monument- located at Square of the Revolution in

Georgetown

Damon’s Monument-located in Anna Regina on the Essequibo

Coast

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Ending of Slavery/Abolition
The period of transition called Apprenticeship lasted 6 years for
field slaves and 4 years for house slaves.

During this time Africans worked for fixed number of hours each
week and received small wages/money.

After the apprenticeship period, slaves were emancipated or

freed.

Slaves were no longer forced to work on the plantation under

harsh conditions.

Slaves could decide whether to work or not.

Ex-slaves pooled their wages/money and bought abandoned

plantations.

The first plantation slaves bought was plantation Northbrook now

called Victoria.

Ex-slaves also bought the first community found in Essequibo

called Queenstown.

Buying of villages and communities by the ex-slaves was called

Village Movement.

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Some people who started the campaign to end slavery were:

Thomas Buxton

Thomas Clarkson

Granville Sharp

George Canning

James Ramsay

William Wilberforce

Some villages bought by ex-slaves are:

Buxton

Friendship

Peter’s Hall

Plaisance

Ithaca

Bushlot

African contributed to the Guyanese society in many ways:

Food

cook-up-rice
yam and plantain foo-foo
conkie
Dress:

Dashikis

Wraps

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Headties
Jewellery:

Legbands

Armbands

Chains of beads

Musical instruments:

Drums (bongos,kittles and great talking drums)

Marimbas

Marracas

Festival and beliefs:

Cumfa

Masquerade

Obeah

Voodoo

Crafts:
Weaving of mats

Baskets

Pots and jars (made from clay mud, carvings)

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PORTUGUESE
-The Portuguese were the fourth 4th group of people who came to

Guyana.

-The Portuguese came from Madeira.

-The first batch of Portuguese came to Guyana on the 3rd of May

1838.

-The name of the ship that bought the first batch of Portuguese to

Guiana was Louisa Baillie.

-The Portuguese worked on the plantation under the system called

indentureship.

-They were the first group of indentured immigrants to arrive in

Guyana.

-Indentured ship lasted for the period of five years.

-After the five years were over many of the Portuguese left the

plantation and opened businesses, eg, groceries

-They also did small scale trading.

The reasons why Portuguese came to Guyana were:

To replace the Africans on the sugar plantation.

To increase the white population.

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Some plantation were the Portuguese were sent are:
Plantation La Patience

Plantation Liliendaal

Plantation Thomas now known as Thomas Lands in Georgetown

144 | P a g e
Portuguese contribution to Guyana society
Food

Garlic pork

Beef stew

Red bean soup

Pancakes

Music or musical instruments

Rajas (a type of banjo)

Braggs (small Portuguese guitar)

145 | P a g e
Customs or beliefs

They believed in the holy spirit of Pentecost

Christmas brass

Businesses –J.P Santos, Banks DIH Ltd, John Fernandes, Fogarty’s

Ltd

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THE EAST INDIANS
-East Indians were the fifth ethnic group to arrive in British Guyana.

-They came from India which is found in the continent of Asia.

-The first group of East Indians came from the hilly districts of
Chota, Nagpur, Burdwan and Bancoorah, which all were close to
Calcutta.

-They were called East Indians because they came from the
eastern side of the world.

-The East Indians came to Guyana by ships or vessels:

• The Whitby
• The Hesperus
The Whitby sailed from India on January 13, 1838 with 249
immigrants. The vessel took 112 days to arrive in Guyana on May 5,
1838. Five persons died on the voyage (journey) which took place
on the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Hesperus leave Calcutta on January 29, 1838 and journeyed

the Indian and Atlantic Ocean with 165 persons on board. The
journey took about 96 days to arrive in Guyana on May 5. Thirteen
persons died on that voyage.

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The East Indians immigrants were sent to different plantations such
as:

Highbury and Waterloo in Berbice.

Bel Vue and Vreed-en-hoop in Region three.

Some difficulties during the journey:

- Overcrowded ships.
- Some of the Immigrants got sick and died because there
was a shortage of medicine.
- Shortage of food.

Reasons for coming

They came to work on the sugar plantation as indentured

immigrants/servants

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They signed an agreement to work on the plantation for a period
of five years.

They were given:

Food /ration

Lodging

Clothing

Medical attendance and supplies

Wages for their labour.

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Life on the plantation
- Life was very difficult for both young and old.
- They worked for long hours, from 6am to 6pm.
- The children between the ages of 5 to 10 had to work in the
creole gang.

They had to:

- Clear drains and trenches.

- Carry water to the cane cutters.
- Put manure/mold on the young sugar cane plants.
- Take care of animals.
- The East Indians’ homes were called logies.
- East Indians were free to return to India after the five years
period.
- Those who stayed were given land in exchange for their
passage.
- The East Indians used the land to build homes and places of
worship.
- Land development schemes were set up by the government
to encourage the East Indians to stay.

Places where the Land development scheme were set up were in:

- Essequibo – Vergenoegen, Huis’t Dieren and Anna Regina.

- Demerara – Cane Grove, La Bonne Mere, Helena and
Nooten Zuil.
- Berbice – Bush Lot, Whim and Black Bush Polder.
- The East Indians used their scheme for farming.
- Rice was a major crop grown on the farm.

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 - They were the first to develop the rice industry because rice
was planted on a large scale.
- There were many strikes and disturbances on the sugar
plantations during the Indian Indentureship. Many East
Indians lost their lives.

Some plantations where the strikes took place were:

The Devonshire Castle riots in September 1872.

The workers were protesting for high wages and five of them were
killed and seven were wounded.

On Plantation Friends in Berbice on May 6, 1903.

The protest was for inadequate payment for the work done by the
indentured immigrants.

Six of them were killed by police from the unruly crowd.

Plantation Lusignan on September 18,1912, one person was shot

on plantation Enmore on June 16, 1948.

The workers were protesting against the cut and load system.
They had to cut the canes and then load them on to the punts
with very little increase in pay. Five of the workers were killed and
injured.

A monument was erected in remembrance of the five workers

called Enmore Martyrs.

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The names of the Martyrs are:

Surujbally

Rambarran

Lalabajee

Harry

Pooran

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The East Indians’ contributed to the
Guyanese Society in the following
ways:

Food- dhal and rice, roti and

curry, dhal puri and sweet meats

Clothing – sari, orhni, shalwars,

kurtas and lahenga

Festivals - Eid-Ul- Adha, Eid- Ul-

Fitr, Youman Nabi, Phagwah,
Diwali

Jewellery- bacelets, bangles, brooches, anklets, finger ring

Musical Instruments - sitars, mandolins, tassa

Dances- kathak, nagara, odissi

Similarities between the Africans and the East Indians.

They both worked on the sugar plantation for long hours.

They both were beaten and treated badly.

Differences between the Africans and the East Indians are:

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The East Indians were paid while the Africans were not paid for
their labour.

The Africans slaves could be sold at any time to a new master but
the East Indians could not be sold.

The East Indians were contracted to work for five years and
returned to India if they chose to while the Africans had to stay
and work.

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THE CHINESE
The Chinese came from the continent of Asia

The first batch of Chinese immigrants came to Guyana on

January12, 1853.

The first ship to arrive in Guyana with 262 out of 305 passengers,
about 43 of them died during the voyage.

The ships which brought the Chinese to Guyana were:

-Lord Elgin

-The Glentanner

-Samuel Boddington

The Chinese came to work on the sugar plantation as indentured

immigrants.

Some sugar estates where the Chinese were sent to work were:

Blankenerburg
Pouderoyen
Union
La Jalousie
Schoonard
Stewartville
Anna Regina Hague
Harlem
Anna Catherina

155 | P a g e
The Chinese contributions to the Guyanese society
Food – fried rice, wanton soup,
chop suey, sweet and sour
Relishes, chowmein.

Clothes- tunics, sarongs, cheongsams

Festival- Chinese New Year, each year is named after an animal.

Musical Instrument- Symbols

156 | P a g e
Dance- Dragon dance

Craft- Embroidery

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