I still end Era 4 with the Black plague. This was the first year I did the contagion activity. I did very little prep. Borrowed some desk of cards, just put letter on scratch paper, P.,M.,N, and added the graphic to my slides. Students were very engaged. Seemed to react well to the activity as an introduction to the Black Plague. I've had a student student suggesting new rules. i would say it was a big success and encourage people to use it. How are other people using/finding this activity?
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Eric Schulz I read great comments about this activity though I never tried myself due to scarcity of time. How long does it take to complete it? Would it be possible to do it without spending one class period?
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I absolutely love this activity! I use it as a hook to start class with no context (students initially think it’s just about trade). When the twist comes, revealing that they’ve been unknowingly spreading the plague, it creates a powerful segue into the lesson. From there, I dive into the 1340-1492 period, wrapping up with Columbus stepping onto the shores of the Americas. Not a bad day in the classroom.
This simulation is what first got me thinking seriously about incorporating more simulations into my teaching. Since then, I’ve been using them as often as I can. In addition to this activity, I’ve done the Economic Simulation, Peace Talks Simulation, and even experimented with creating my own, like an Olympic Games, Castle Builder, and an Imperialism Prisoner’s Dilemma. Each has had varying levels of success, but they’ve all added something to how I approach the day in the classroom.
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This is a fantastic approach Drew Fortune Before I moved to the U.S. I taught geography at different levels and I used several simulations because they are extremely engaging for students and really open their interest and curiosity to learn more.
Would you like to share some of the simulations you use in class?
