In this onsite program, travel to Planet Plutopia on a trade mission and discover that trading goods without a common currency poses problems.
In this cooperative learning game, students will trade primary and secondary resources and see the effect that factors such as the environment can have on trade shortages.
Are you too far from the National Capital Region? Check out our Trading Planets lesson plan for a downloadable version of this program for your classroom.
Grades
Grades 4 to 8; Elementary Cycles Two and Three
Big idea
Trade is difficult without a common currency. Supply and demand in trade are influenced by outside factors like environmental conditions and labour shortages.
Learning objectives
Students will:
- compare the challenges of trade with and without a common currency
- define and describe primary and secondary resources
- discuss the effects of outside elements (such as the environment) on trade
Curriculum links
Ontario
- Grade 5 Social Studies
- People and environments: the role of government and responsible citizenship
- Grade 6 Social Studies
- People and environments: Canada’s interactions with the global community
- Grade 7 Geography
- Natural resources around the world: Use and sustainability
Quebec
- Secondary Cycle One - History and citizenship education
- Purpose of trade and the impact of trade on society today
- Currency as a form of public administration and government intervention
- Secondary Cycle Two - History and citizenship education
- Economic activities in the modern era
- Resources as assets and the limitations of a territory
Duration
This onsite program runs for approximately 90 minutes.
Availability
This onsite program is offered Thursdays and Fridays. The last booking is at 15:00.
Are you too far from the National Capital Region? Check out our Trading Planets lesson plan for a downloadable version of this program for your classroom.
Cost
All school programs are offered free of charge.
Class size
10 to 50 students per program.
Students bring resources to each round of trading and try and score points for successful trades.
Each round involves negotiation and collaboration between both teams.
Students may choose a different resource and trading strategy in each round to score more points for their team.
Book your visit
or call 613‑782‑8914 to book a visit. Please include the following information in your request:
- date and time of arrival
- number of students and teachers
- program or tour of your choice
- preferred official language
- any accessibility or special needs
We will confirm your booking within five to seven business days.
Before your visit
Try out the following activities:
- Find historical examples of currencies through the Bank of Canada Museum’s online collection.
- Explore the resources you’ll be trading in advance with our trading posters.
Content type(s):
School programs
Subject(s):
Social studies
