Need help writing an essay on this:

How do you think the existence of nearly 3000 ethnic groups and 800 languages affect life in countries south of the Sahara?

Thanks
-MC

Also:

How has the Suez Canal been a catalyst for nationalism in Egypt?

-MC

First, read your text materials and these sites carefully.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sub-Saharan_Africa#Languages_and_ethnic_groups

http://www.faqs.org/minorities/Sub-Saharan-Africa/Sub-Saharan-Africa.html

http://geography.about.com/od/culturalgeography/a/linguafranca.htm

Take notes on facts that will help answer the question. Be sure to formulate a good thesis statement that essentially answers the question.

(Broken Link Removed)

http://books.google.com/books?id=0yN_dBBIxAwC&pg=PA83&lpg=PA83&dq=Suez+Canal+nationalism+in+Egypt&source=bl&ots=YdXH29ts4q&sig=mnl0Z5Lb7Qi3cZ1x8se9CfTMDFI&hl=en&ei=SxX_SpLQFcbilAfHteSYCw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CBIQ6AEwAw

Thanks

-MC

To write an essay on the topic of how the existence of nearly 3000 ethnic groups and 800 languages affect life in countries south of the Sahara, you will need to conduct some research and organize your thoughts. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to approach this task:

1. Understand the significance: Start by understanding why the existence of numerous ethnic groups and languages is important in the context of countries south of the Sahara. Consider how diversity can shape social, cultural, political, and economic aspects of life.

2. Research and collect information: Look for data, studies, and expert opinions that provide insights into the impact of ethnic diversity and linguistic variation in this region. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the different ethnic groups, languages spoken, and their distribution.

3. Identify the areas of impact: Analyze various areas where the existence of multiple ethnic groups and languages affects life in countries south of the Sahara. This could include social cohesion, cultural preservation, political dynamics, governance, education, economic development, and more.

4. Develop your thesis statement: Based on your research, develop a clear and concise thesis statement that states your main argument or perspective on the topic. This will serve as the main idea or focus of your essay.

5. Organize your essay: Create an outline to structure your essay. Divide it into sections that address different aspects of the topic, such as the social impact, cultural implications, political consequences, and economic factors. Within each section, present supporting evidence and examples to substantiate your arguments.

6. Provide examples and case studies: Use specific examples and case studies from countries south of the Sahara to illustrate how ethnic diversity and linguistic variation affect life in different ways. This will help to strengthen your arguments and make your essay more insightful and persuasive.

7. Analyze the positives and negatives: Explore both the positive and negative effects of having such diverse ethnic groups and languages. Consider factors like social harmony, cultural exchange, linguistic barriers, conflicts, discrimination, and exclusion. Provide balanced arguments and support them with evidence.

8. Draw conclusions: In your conclusion, summarize your main points and restate your thesis. Reflect on the overall impact of ethnic diversity and linguistic variation in countries south of the Sahara, highlighting any recommendations or suggestions for addressing the challenges and harnessing the benefits.

Remember to use credible sources, cite them properly using a citation style (such as APA or MLA), and proofread your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammar. Good luck with your essay!