Deserted Island Government Simulation

PART 1 (15 minutes)

Open Ended

What problems might arise on the island? (write all that apply and add details)

Open Ended

In 2-3 sentences, explain why these problems would make people want to create a government:

PART 2 Design Your Island Government (25 minutes)

Open Ended

Why did your group choose this form of leadership?

Open Ended

What is ONE rule that MUST exist on your island?

Rule:

What happens if someone breaks this rule? (Describe the punishment)

Open Ended

What is ONE right that NO ONE — not even the leader or council — can take away?

Right:

Why is this right important enough to protect from even your government?

Poll

How will your group decide who does what work? (farming, fishing, building shelter, etc.)

• The leader assigns jobs

• People choose their own jobs

• People choose their own jobs

• Other:

Open Ended

What happens if someone refuses to work?

PART 3 Island Government Map (10 min)

PART 4 Reflection & Connection to Theories (10 min)

Open Ended

 Why did your group create a government instead of staying in a state of nature?

Poll

 Which of these theories BEST matches how your island government was created? (Circle one)

• Force Theory – A strong person or group took control by force

• Evolution Theory – Leadership grew naturally from family or experienced members

• Force Theory – A strong person or group took control by force

• Evolution Theory – Leadership grew naturally from family or experienced members

• Divine Right Theory – A leader claims special authority or higher power

• Social Contract Theory – People agreed to give up some freedom for order and protection

Open Ended

Explain your choice:

Open Ended

Did your island government get its power from the CONSENT OF THE GOVERNED (citizens' agreement), or from something else?