Lesson Plan

Grades 3-5, 6-8

Something for Everyone

This lesson plan must be purchased as part of a lesson packet or as part of a full curriculum that is available in our store.

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30 minutes

SUBJECTS: Math, Science, Social Studies

TOPICS: Carrying Capacity, Resource Distribution, Sustainability: Sharing Common Resources

Resource Overview

In a simulation game, students desiring to draw renewable resources from a common pool determine short-term consumption strategies that will preserve a long-term supply of the resource for all.

Students will be able to:
  • Identify a strategy that would produce a sustainable use of resources in a simulation game.
  • Draw parallels between the chips used in the game and renewable resources upon which people depend.
  • Explain the similarities between the actions of participants in the game and the actions of people in real-world situations.
Students reaching for poker chips in Tragedy of the Commons simulation

Features of This Resource

  • Tragedy of the commons simulation game
  • Great lesson plan for social economics
  • Opportunity for responsible decision-making (SEL competency)
  • Students evaluate the realistic consequences of various actions, taking into consideration the well-being of themselves and others

How Do I Get This Lesson Plan?

This lesson plan must be purchased as part of a lesson packet or as part of a full curriculum that is available in our store.

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