Quarter 1 Social Studies

The colonization simulation was a game we played based on life in the New World during our social studies unit in class. The simulation recreated how the colonists came to the New World and settled. It also recreated a lot of the struggles the colonists went through. The game was consisted of fate cards, general welfare cards, daily life cards, dice, and record sheets. The first few rounds were the sailing rounds. We had to sail 3 ships from England to the New World facing some difficulties, such weather along the way. Once landed we were able to battle and trade with other colonies, and the Natives. We were also able to pull cards for daily tasks that were in the colonies.

The purpose of this activity was to recreate the feelings and emotions of the colonist, and be put into their shoes. The purpose was also to teach us how the colonist survived in the New World back then. This game was played to help us fathom the New World, and also this period in United States history.

By playing this game we learned how America was formed. We also learned about the real struggles colonists went through. Struggles such as being attacked by Indians or other colonists, difficulty with weather when trying to farm, fish or hunt, and difficulty when trying to find food, water, or shelter. We learned a lot about the geography of the land by doing mapping assignments. During the game we were also taught about why people traveled to the New World.

A way I could have learned more or differently was by doing more research and turning in some factoids. I also could have learned more by listening to what happened to the fate cards of other groups. I could have learned differently if we would have switched roles in the game more often. If we would have taken bigger risks when in battle we could have learned more as well.

One of my goals fourth first quarter was to try to make good grades. Playing this game allowed me to achieve my goal because it was some thing I enjoyed doing. When I enjoy doing something, I am much more into it, and I can get a better grade.