Classroom activity 2.4 1. a) Look at the map above. Which river did the trading parties follow for some of the journey to the coast? b) Write down some advantages of walking next to a river. 2. In what modern country was the coastal trading town Sofala? 3. What goods did the traders take to the coast? What goods did they bring back to Mapungubwe?

Sure, I'd be happy to help with Classroom Activity 2.4. Let's address each question step by step: --- ### **1. a) Which river did the trading parties follow for some of the journey to the coast?** **Answer:** The trading parties followed the **Limpopo River** for a portion of their journey to the coast. The Limpopo River served as a major transportation and trade route, facilitating the movement of goods between inland trading centers like Mapungubwe and coastal ports such as Sofala. --- ### **1. b) Write down some advantages of walking next to a river.** **Answer:** Walking next to a river offers several advantages, including: 1. **Access to Fresh Water:** Rivers provide a reliable source of water for drinking, cooking, and washing. 2. **Transportation and Trade:** Rivers serve as natural highways, making it easier to transport goods and people. 3. **Fertile Land:** The areas surrounding rivers are often rich in nutrients, supporting agriculture and providing food resources. 4. **Resource Availability:** Rivers offer various resources such as fish, plants, and materials for building. 5. **Navigation and Orientation:** Rivers can help travelers navigate and maintain their bearings during long journeys. 6. **Protection and Shelter:** The presence of water can offer protection to ecosystems and wildlife, creating safer environments for settlements. --- ### **2. In what modern country was the coastal trading town Sofala?** **Answer:** The coastal trading town of **Sofala** is located in **modern-day Mozambique**. Sofala was an important port on the Indian Ocean coast, serving as a key hub for trade between inland African kingdoms and merchants from Arabia, Persia, India, and later Europe. --- ### **3. What goods did the traders take to the coast? What goods did they bring back to Mapungubwe?** **Answer:** - **Goods Taken to the Coast:** - **Gold:** One of the most valuable commodities, gold was in high demand in international markets. - **Ivory:** Used for art, trade, and various goods, ivory was another prized export. - **Rhinoceros Horn:** Valued for its use in traditional medicine and as a status symbol. - **Timber and Other Natural Resources:** These were essential for construction and crafting. - **Goods Brought Back to Mapungubwe:** - **Beads and Textiles:** Made from materials like glass and cotton, these were highly sought after for decoration and clothing. - **Metals and Tools:** Items such as iron tools, weapons, and ornaments were imported to enhance local craftsmanship and daily life. - **Ceramics and Pottery:** Used for both practical purposes and artistic expression. - **Spices and Luxury Items:** These included items that were not locally available and added value to the traders’ offerings. This exchange of goods facilitated economic growth, cultural exchange, and technological advancement in Mapungubwe, making it a significant center of trade in its time. --- If you have any more questions or need further clarification on any of these points, feel free to ask!