Wizards + Muggles in South Africa
Posted by Ariel WarshawSeventh grade Humanities students participated in an apartheid simulation in order to deepen their understanding of this chapter in South African history. Prior to engaging, students were asked to think about how individual and collective identities are impacted by society, and how those identities influence the choices people make.
Students then were divided into “Muggles” and “Wizards” to represent Black South Africans and the white South African minority, respectively. Using tape to mark bantustan borders, Muggles were required to stay in their prescribed boxes unless hired by the Wizards to do jobs around the classroom. Failure to comply resulted in fines or jail-time. In addition, at set time intervals all Muggles were expected to pay taxes to the government (which then trickled to the Wizards). Payment was made using M&Ms.
After our simulation, we discussed the ways the two groups behaved. Was it easy to “become” a Wizard? Why? These answers helped shed light on bystander behavior and the effects of power on people. What were different approaches the Muggles took in responding to the Wizards? Compliance? Resistance? Flattery? Competition between one another? We then analyzed a map of the bantustans in South Africa during this time period, and considered the land quality, access to mineral resources, and infant mortality rates between these zones and “white” South Africa. The conversations and written reflections around these questions and observations led to deep connections with the content and will serve as a great springboard for lessons to come.
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