12th Grade  Project 3 weeks

Borderland Bonanza: Game of Geography & Economy!

Jennifer J
Updated
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Collaboration
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Purpose

In this project, students will collaboratively design a board game that explores and teaches about the complex interplay of geography, history, economic principles, and recent events in the Tijuana-San Diego region. By designing innovative game elements, they will critically analyze and represent issues such as cross-cultural communication, migration, and trade impacts on the area's economic and social dynamics. This hands-on approach actively engages students in addressing real-world challenges, culminating in an exhibition where they will present and play their game with family and friends, fostering community dialogue and understanding.

Learning goals

Students will collaboratively design and create a board game that integrates aspects of history, geography, and economics related to the Tijuana-San Diego region, emphasizing current events and basic economic principles. Through this hands-on project, students will enhance critical thinking by exploring the impact of cross-border dynamics on social and economic factors such as trade, migration, and tourism. The project will culminate in an exhibition where students refine their communication and relational skills by engaging peers, family, and community members in playing their board game.

Competencies
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.

Products

Students will collaboratively design and develop a comprehensive board game that showcases the complex socio-economic landscape of the Tijuana-San Diego region. Along the way, each group will create a detailed map and scenario cards reflecting significant historical events, cultural interactions, and economic exchanges such as trade and tourism. The final product, demonstrated at a community exhibition, will serve as an interactive educational tool that engages players in understanding the unique dynamics that define this border area.

Launch

Begin the project with an immersive border region experience, such as a virtual tour or documentary screening, highlighting key historical and current events unique to the Tijuana-San Diego area. This will set the stage for discussions around the essential questions, sparking students' curiosity and encouraging them to start thinking about the multifaceted nature of cross-border dynamics. Following the experience, organize a guided brainstorming session where students identify key elements they find intriguing, which will inform the design of their board game, ensuring relevance and engagement from the outset.

Exhibition

Students will host a community game night where they showcase their board games in an interactive exhibition open to family, friends, and local community members. Attendees will have the opportunity to play the board games, gaining insights into the history, current events, and economic concepts tied to the Tijuana-San Diego region. Students will facilitate the event, highlighting the game's design process and its educational significance while fostering cross-cultural dialogue among participants.