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3rd Grade  Lesson 55 minutes

Economic Adventure: Trade and Map Quest!

Wanru Z
Updated
SS.Econ1.a.1
SS.Econ1.a.3
Creative Innovator
Critical Thinker
Effective Communicator
+ 2 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 3rd-grade students in understanding international trade through hands-on activities and simulations. By role-playing as countries and using interactive tools, students will explore concepts of imports, exports, specialization, and the global movement of goods. This experiential approach helps students grasp the complexities of trade, the impact of natural resources, and the decision-making processes involved in a globally connected economy. Students will also develop critical skills such as collaboration, creativity, and effective communication as they present their findings and reflect on trade dynamics.

Learning goals

Students will identify and locate China and another country on a map to understand global trade routes. They will use maps to track the origin of various products and recognize the concept of imports and exports. By participating in interactive simulations, students will comprehend how specialization influences international trade and how different countries' resources impact their ability to produce goods and services. Through role-playing and research, students will generate examples of trade’s impact on consumer choices and reflect on the importance of making informed decisions based on understanding global supply chains.

Standards
  • [Wisconsin] SS.Econ1.a.1 - Differentiate between a “want” and a “need”. Describe resources that are important or useful to you, your family, community, and country.
  • [Wisconsin] SS.Econ1.a.3 - Use economic reasoning to compare and contrast the costs and benefits of a decision. Categorize different limited resources (e.g., money, materials, time, labor or workers, land, natural resources, renewable or non-renewable).
Competencies
  • Creative Innovator - Utilizes imagination, curiosity, and flexible thinking to solve problems creatively, and develop new ideas and products, while adapting to evolving circumstances and challenges.
  • Critical Thinker - Analyzes information thoughtfully, evaluates evidence critically, and identifies patterns and connections between different pieces of information (across multiple content areas) to address complex issues and navigate the world with insight.
  • Effective Communicator - Articulates ideas clearly and confidently through speaking, writing, and the use of different types of media for various purposes, while engaging with diverse audiences and actively listening to different perspectives.
  • Global Citizen - Acts responsibly and ethically within local, global, and digital communities, employing civic knowledge, skills, and mindsets to promote global sustainability and contribute positively to a culturally diverse, democratic society.
  • Reflective and Future Focused - Engages in self-reflection to identify strengths and areas for growth, sets meaningful goals, uses social awareness to maintain supportive relationships, and demonstrates responsible decision-making that prioritizes social, emotional, and mental well-being.

Products

Students will create a 'Global Supply Chain Map' that visually traces the journey of a selected product from raw material to the consumer’s hand. They will also produce an interactive digital portfolio showcasing maps, trade routes, and reflections on how imports and exports affect consumers. Additionally, students will prepare a role-play skit to illustrate international trade negotiations and design an informational booth or poster for the 'Trade Fair' detailing the trade practices of their assigned country.

Launch

Organize a "Global Trade Simulation" where students assume the role of different countries. Using scenario cards, they will trade goods representing imports and exports. This hands-on activity will help students physically explore and understand the dynamics of international trade, specialization, and resource allocation. The simulation will provide a playful environment for experiential learning, sparking curiosity and engagement with the essential questions of the lesson.

Exhibition

The lesson will culminate in a Global Goods Gallery, where students display and explain products from various countries, emphasizing international trade interconnections. Family and community members will be invited to explore unique resources and trade routes students have modeled using maps, visual aids, and storytelling. Each student will also participate in a role-play skit to demonstrate their understanding of trade negotiations, highlighting the impact of resources and cultural values.