Understanding the Agricultural Revolution: A Simulation

Purpose

The purpose of this simulation is to actively engage students to build their historical understanding of why the UN Sustainable Development Goal #15 exists (Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss). Students will learn how this era of history significantly changed the world and the human impact on the environment over time.

Furthermore, this simulation will highlight the importance of taking care and preserving the environment as the land we live on provides the sustanence to our livelihood.   Through learning the history of these two different societies students will not only gain an understanding of differences between the two types of societies but also how their ways of life had an impact on the environment.

When this simulation is complete, students should be able to discuss the major differences between hunter-gatherer and agricultural (farmer) societies and identify how the land, climate, and water influenced those communities. Students should also be able to identify the impacts of the Agricultural Revolution and make connections to SDG #15.

Overview

Students were divided into one of two societies – hunter gatherer or farming (agricultural) societies. Students were presented with a variety of challenges and each challenge provided an opportunity to collect Food Cards, Intelligence Cards, Energy Cards, or Social-Emotional Cards.

Students had to apply teamwork and communication skills, use strategy and organization skills, and integrate their literacy skills (reading, writing, and reflecting) to successfully complete the simulation. To find out more about the rules and structure of the simulation check out the unit slideshow below.