In United States History with Mr. Snook and Mrs. Wiggers, students took part in The Urban Game, a hands-on drawing activity that helps students understand how small, agrarian towns transformed into large urban centers as a result of the Industrial Revolution.
The game follows the development of an American town from 1820 to 1920. Students begin with a basic map with a few landmarks and then after several rounds of changes, add factories, tenements, hospitals, and infrastructure as the pace becomes faster and more complex.
As the town grows, students experience both the benefits and challenges of rapid change, making quick decisions without always seeing the long term effects. It is a powerful way to explore urbanization, industrialization, migration, economic growth, and environmental impact.