Silent Barter Trade Activity

The silent barter activity is a hands-on simulation where students trade candy in silence, using only gestures and symbols, to recreate challenges ancient African traders faced and employ strategies to overcome barriers. Small student groups receive clue cards to guide objectives. There are strict no-talking rules to mimic language barriers. After two timed trading sessions and strategizing, students reflect by responding to writing prompts.

This activity could benefit teachers in several ways:

• Immerses students in experiential learning to stimulate engagement and critical thinking on course concepts like trade, value, communication.
• Allows students to practice teamwork, problem-solving and negotiation through the structured candy trades.
• Includes reflection questions to reinforce student understanding and connect the activity to broader learning goals.
• Provides flexible materials for easy adaptation across different class sizes, grade levels, and subject areas.
• Offers opportunities to assess student learning outcomes based on trade performance, writing responses and class discussions.
  

Overall, this creative activity brings ancient African trade to life while developing vital student skills, comprehension and reflection. The organized lesson materials help teachers facilitate an impactful learning experience.

On slide 1 Access Google Document in comments for lesson plan instructions.