For years, I have used Play-Doh to introduce GDP - gross domestic product. Two years ago, I wanted to try something different. After much thought, I decided to create a GDP introductory activity where the students create homes using Legos. My girls love playing with Legos...I mean, who doesn't, right? And we have a ca-jillion Legos at home!
For this activity, the students are divided into groups - two builders and one accountant. When the students get ready to build their homes, the accountant comes to the front of the room and "purchases" different blocks/characters/etc. for their home. I have the prices broken down based on color and specialty. Once the home is built, a final cost is calculated. When time is called, each group presents their home with the final value, which I write on the board. After all groups present their homes, I add up the value of all new homes created. This is the GDP for "__?___-country" in the year _____. (you get the point)
This activity is a fun-filled activity for the students that introduces a very important concept to the American economy. It is one that I can also easily refer back to if needed (intermediate goods versus final product).
Resources:
Show video on how Legos are made (you can also use this to review factors of production).
Student Handout 1Student Handout 2
