Basel Fasnacht: A Past Perspective

7th GradeSocial Studies60 min

Learning Objective

Students will learn about the origins of Fasnacht in the city of Basel and they will practice using the simple past tense.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

11 min

What is Fasnacht?! Swiss pop culture explained

David Marcel's Comic Book Reviews

Guided Notes

12 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • Basler Fasnacht is a carnival that includes costumes, parades, and live music, but it has unique aspects compared to other carnivals.

  • The Morgestraich starts Fasnacht at 4 A.M. with the city going dark, musicians playing, and people lighting up large, handcrafted lanterns with satirical rhymes.

  • During the Cortèges, participants present their messages in larvae (costumes) and those without a blaggedde (entry badge) may be stuffed with confetti.

Practice

18 min

12 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Describe the Morgestraich. What happened at 4 A.M. to start the Basel Fasnacht?

Teacher Guide

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  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts