We are almost halfway through the year and the economy is still going strong. During their auctions, students are forcing their peers to spend their money by driving up the prices for each item. The students have a blast; and laughing and excited the whole time.
I have had many students purchase their desks. They receive a desk deed and are very happy that they don't have to pay rent anymore. It is very gratifying to see them get excited for their deeds and proudly display them.
January is the last payment the students will make on their education loans and the difference in pay between those who chose education versus immediate employment will start to become apparent for the first time. Inflation starts on February 1st, and I can't wait to see and hear the kids' reactions to this!
The students have also realized that their actions have effects, both positive and negative. They try to work hard and earn extra bonuses and want to keep earning; but they understand that they lose money when they make the bad decisions or behave poorly.
I have one block that can use the spreadsheets to get their own income token values, balance their account, and let me know how much they deposited/withdrew for the day. Some students have even taken it upon themselves to help others that may need some extra assistance. The economy runs on it's own in this class, and I have no worries about them trying to cheat the system. They are always excited to be doing it on their own and have pride that they are able to do so.
I am looking forward to hitting the halfway point and watching the students grow in their math skills!
