Our New Community

This week in social studies students have been learning about different landforms.  They were asked where would be the best place to build a new community.  Students came to a consensus that their community should be built on a plain near a river next to the ocean.

First roads were built.  In teams of four, students borrowed money from the bank to buy building supplies. To qualify for a loan, students had to state what they were going to build.  Once approved, students started building.  When their buildings were completed, they could start collecting rent to pay back their loans or buy a house.  Students also discovered that landowners needed to pay taxes and interest on their loans.

This project has generated a lot of discussions about what a community needs.  Does a community really need multiple toy stores and pet shops?

Eventually this simulation will show how people interact with each other.  Where do you go when you're sick? Who helps you? Where would you work? How would you help others?

Before construction.

Mid-construction.