At Corydon Intermediate School, the excitement of learning is alive and well in Mrs. Eichmiller's 6th-grade classroom! Recently, students participated in a dynamic simulation designed to teach them about the complexities of trade and the fundamental features of a civilization. This hands-on activity not only made learning fun but also illustrated important concepts that extend far beyond the classroom.
In the Trade Lab, students formed groups representing different Mediterranean regions: Greece, Anatolia, Egypt, North Africa, Iberia, and Italy. Each group produced unique commodities, some rare and others common, that they could trade with their neighbors. The students quickly learned that communication and negotiation were key to success, as they navigated the challenges of limited trading partners, mirroring the realities of ancient trade routes.
The goal of the simulation was to be the first group to construct all five "Features of a Polis," including a gymnasium, theater, government building, hoplite army, and temple. This competitive element fostered teamwork and strategic thinking, as students had to negotiate trades to acquire the necessary resources. The discussions that followed highlighted valuable life lessons about supply and demand, fairness in trade, and the importance of collaboration to achieve common goals.
This engaging activity not only reinforced concepts from their history lessons but also cultivated essential employability skills such as communication, critical thinking, and teamwork. As students raced to gather their goods and complete their projects, they experienced firsthand the excitement of bringing ancient civilizations to life.
The Trade Lab exemplifies how Corydon Intermediate is dedicated to creating an interactive learning environment. We celebrate our students’ achievements and look forward to more innovative lessons that inspire curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world around them!