7th grade Humanities students were introduced to economics through an exciting and boisterous simulation called “Kool Katz, Inc.” The students were divided into 3 “factories”, and each group was tasked with drawing five “kool katz” under varying conditions. Each group member was responsible for drawing a certain part of the image.

For Round 1, each team was asked to build their kool katz, and when done they were paid 3 Skittles each. This round was untimed, and teams finished at their own pace. In Round 2, the goal was to finish first – quality was not factored in, as long as each image resembled a kool kat. Only the fastest team was compensated – 5 Skittles per person! Our final round required teams to produce both efficiently and with high quality – so while speed was part of the equation, their products had to actually look good. The winning team members scored 7 Skittles each.

After the simulation, we debriefed as a class. Which round felt most sustainable? Which round felt most satisfying? We then learned about command, market, and mixed economic systems, and considered which round of the game symbolized which system. The students were wonderfully engaged, and were able to identify them all correctly. It was a great kickoff to our study of economic systems over time, and how economic choices impact culture.