New Deal Simulation: Create Your Own Program

Problem-based learning for US History! In this New Deal activity, students act as the Brain Trust. In small groups, students evaluate 8 New Deal Programs- recording details on each one and then, based on their strengths and weaknesses, must decide to scrap one, promote one, and create their own either in a quick class presentation!  To create their own program, students must consider industries or groups that other programs ignored or had unmet needs that needed addressing. Students have to create an "Alphabet Soup" name for the program, break down what it will do, estimate costs, and then design a logo for it. Then they make their presentations to their peers.  In the end, the class votes on which program was best! This is always a hit with my students because it makes engaging and rigorous learning, fun!