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Lesson Plan: “Exploring Representation & Wealth: Forbes’ Top Black Billionaires (2025)”

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1. Overview & Purpose

  • Title: Exploring Representation & Wealth: Forbes’ Top Black Billionaires (2025)

  • Grade Level: Middle to High School (Grades 6–9)

  • Duration: 1 class period (~45 minutes)

  • Objective:

    • Students will identify prominent Black billionaires featured on Forbes’ 2025 list.

    • Understand the industries driving wealth.

    • Analyze diversity and representation within global billionaires.

    • Practice data interpretation and critical thinking.


2. Standards Alignment – Florida Sunshine State Standards

  • ELA.6–9:

    • LAFS.6–9.RI.3.7: Integrate information from diverse media to understand a subject.

    • LAFS.6–9.RI.2.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases used in informational texts.

    • LAFS.6–9.W.2.8: Research topics based on content.

  • SS.6–9.E.1.1 (Economics / Social Studies):

    • Define wealth, markets, industries, and economic impact.

  • MA.6–9.DP.1.2 (Mathematics – Data & Probability):

    • Represent data using charts or graphs and interpret results.


3. Lesson Structure

Phase

Activities

A. Introduction (10 min)

(POCIT).

B. Explore the Top 5 (15 min)

- Present the top 5: Aliko Dangote, David Steward, Robert F. Smith, Alexander Karp, Mike Adenuga, with their net worths and wealth sources (POCIT, TheGrio, Forbes). - In small groups, students analyze each person's industry and its significance. |

C. Data Visualization (10 min)

- Have students create a simple bar chart comparing net worths using paper or digital tools. - Discuss observations—e.g., how Aliko Dangote’s lead is substantial.

D. Reflection & Discussion (5 min)

- Facilitate a classroom discussion: “What does this data tell us about representation, wealth distribution, and industry diversity?” - Encourage thought on systemic barriers and pathways to economic empowerment.

E. Wrap-Up Activity (5 min)

- Ask students to write a short paragraph: “Why is representation in wealth important, and what can we do to promote equity?”

F. Extension/Homework

- Research another Black billionaire not among the top 5 (e.g., Oprah Winfrey, Jay-Z, Tyler Perry, Rihanna), report their net worth and industry.

4. Key Data Points

  • 23 Black individuals on Forbes' 2025 billionaires list—only 0.8% of 3,028 billionaires (POCIT).

  • Combined net worth of the group: roughly $96 billion (TheGrio).

  • Top 5 Individuals:

    1. Aliko Dangote – ~$23.9 B, cement & sugar (Nigeria) (POCIT).

    2. David Steward – ~$11.4 B, IT provider (USA) (POCIT).

    3. Robert F. Smith – ~$10.8 B, private equity (USA) (POCIT).

    4. Alexander Karp – ~$8.4 B, software / data analytics firm (USA) (Forbes).

    5. Mike Adenuga – ~$6.8 B, telecom & oil (Nigeria) (Wikipedia).


6. Notes for the Educator

  • Adapt depth for grade level; simplify financial jargon for younger students.

  • Use visuals (charts, infographics) to enhance understanding.

  • Encourage critical thinking around systemic inequities and access.

  • Discuss the importance of entrepreneurship, innovation, and diverse economic sectors.

 
 
 

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