I found these assignments and have been using them the past few years the second or third day of class. They are a great way to introduce the main topics of Economics. The first is a Zoo Game . I have the students work in groups for this and then go over the questions at the end together. I find that this is a way to make Economics seem more accessible to the students, and start them off by explaining that they already know the concepts, they just have to understand why they know.
The second is a fun game that the students really get into. Once again, groups are formed. I inform the students that they are their own country, and that they need to make supplies. They need food, which will be 4 strips of 2 inch green paper. They need clothing, which will be a four color paper chain. They need education, which will be an eight page book with a different color cover. Finally, they need shelter, which is a 2 inch white square, attached to a yellow triangle. Seems simple enough. They then each get an envelope with materials. I tell them they have 7 minutes to complete the task. The trick is I don't give everyone all the materials they need. I only give them some of the stuff. If I am feeling particularly crafty, I give one group nothing, or just a paper clip, or something small. I make sure one group has a ruler, one group has a glue stick, etc. Some groups get more than others. The point is that they have to trade to get what they need. An excellent way to introduce scarcity, utility, trade, interdependence and self sufficiency. It is also a good way to quickly get to know your students by seeing who gets up and starts the trade. I usually offer money, for the winning group. I make sure to measure exactly and no one usually wins.
No comments:
Post a Comment