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Students in the fifth grade class of Mrs. Hall and Ms. O’Donnell at Coal City Intermediate School recently took part in a classroom simulation to better understand the Stamp Act as part of their American Revolution studies. The activity assigned students roles such as colonist, tax collector, member of parliament, or King George.
In the exercise, M&M’s served as currency for the colonists. When new laws were introduced by King George, tax collectors collected “money” from each student according to the rules set by the simulation.
After participating, students discussed how this experience helped them relate to the frustrations felt by colonists when new taxes were imposed. Some students acting as colonists became upset with those playing tax collectors and attempted to boycott paying taxes. In response, “King George” imposed additional taxes and stricter regulations during the simulation.
The activity aimed to give students a practical understanding of historical events related to taxation and colonial resistance leading up to the American Revolution.
