Desert survival groupwork simulation lesson

This lesson involves pupils working in groups to survive after a plane crash in the desert. They decide their group roles, then make a sequence of survival decisions, earning points depending on their choices. The following good quality original resources are included: 17-slide powerpoint; map of the desert area; decision-making record sheet for pupils to fill in and calculate their points; and teacher’s notes including ideas for questioning and additional information. The ppt ends with a debrief and reflection slide for evaluating the groupwork and decision-making processes. All of the materials are original and have been used successfully with classes at KS3, including on Year 6 transition days. This lesson would easily fit into a unit of work on deserts, hostile environments, survival geography etc. As well as the survival aspects, there is plenty of geography too, including desert landforms on the map (e.g. wadi and playa).