Economic Systems: Command Economy vs Market Economy
In an engaging geography activity centered around the topic of economic systems, middle schoolers were actively involved in an experiential exercise that provided a hands-on understanding of market and command economies. Through a simulation, students were divided into groups representing these different economic systems, immersing themselves in the production and consumption dynamics unique to each. As they navigated this activity, students were encouraged to consider the subjective experiences of being part of a command economy group versus a market economy group. They delved into questions like how production methods differed between these economic models, and how purchasing decisions varied based on the rules and regulations of each system. This immersive exercise prompted students to contemplate the reasons behind people’s preferences for either a market or a command economy within their countries, fostering critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the complexities of economic structures. 
