This game helps to show how international trade affects the prosperity of a country - both positively and negatively. As the game started, those representing the poorer nations discovered that they had plenty of resources, but were somewhat disappointed to discover that without the technology of scissors, pencils and rulers, they were unable to profit from them and needed to trade. Some pupils embarked on trade deals, some decided that asking for ‘aid’ or loans was the best way forward and others resorted to theft! Current world trading systems are helping to maintain the gap between rich and poor nations and playing this game introduces the issues of trade, and the inequalities that exist. It is a valuable introduction to the basic issues that determine how the gap between rich and poor nations is maintained. Year 7 fully engaged in the activity and, while some thoroughly enjoyed their spot at the top of the trading world, others certainly felt aggrieved at their situation they found themselves in. Creativity, negotiating skills and initiative was needed to make the most of each country’s situation.

At the end of the game, the pupils who had banked the most were able to spend their money on luxurious snacks of sandwiches, sausage rolls and cake, but those who weren’t able to bank as much were left with crackers.  This helped the students to realise that the inequalities (that we in the UK benefit from) are very real!

Mr John Kimber, Head of Geography