Country Profiles: Guinea-Bissau Webquest Worksheet

This worksheet on Guinea-Bissau helps students explore the country’s geography, political system, economy, and cultural identity through guided research activities. Students begin by recording key facts such as the capital city Bissau, official language (Portuguese), population, and currency (West African CFA franc). The geography section highlights Guinea-Bissau’s location on the West African coast, bordered by Senegal, Guinea, and the Atlantic Ocean, with mangrove swamps, tropical forests, and the Bijagós Archipelago. In the government and politics section, students investigate its semi-presidential republic system, current leadership, and national symbols like the red, yellow, and green flag with a black star. The economy portion focuses on agriculture (especially cashew nut production), fishing, forestry, and regional trade, while noting ongoing development challenges. The culture and society section explores the country’s diverse ethnic groups, Creole language use, music, dance, festivals, religious practices (Islam, Christianity, and traditional beliefs), and cultural traditions tied to community life. Tourism highlights include the Bijagós Islands, Bissau’s colonial architecture, and natural reserves. Reflection questions prompt students to think about Guinea-Bissau’s cultural diversity, environmental significance, and role in West Africa.

Keywords: Guinea-Bissau, Bissau, West Africa, Atlantic Ocean, Bijagós Archipelago, Portuguese language, cashew nuts, semi-presidential republic, mangroves, fishing, culture, Creole, festivals, Islam, Christianity, traditional beliefs, geography, economy, Model United Nations (MUN), reflection, politics