KS3-4: Learn about supply chains and machine learning with the root beer and zombie apocalypse games

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Suitable for 11-18-year olds (secondary, middle and high schools), this article and accompanying activity sheet can be used in the classroom, in science/computer clubs and at home.

This resource is internationally relevant but also links to KS3 Maths: reason mathematically, and Computer Science; and KS4 Maths: solve problems, and Computer Science.

It can also be used as a careers resource and links to Gatsby Benchmarks:
Gatsby Benchmark 2: Learning from career and labour market information
Gatsby Benchmark 4: Linking curriculum learning to careers

The article includes an example of a supply chain (Van’s shoes) and a summary of operations research and machine learning: what are they and how do they protect supply chains? There’s also an interview with Professor Larry Snyder, plus ideas on how to work in his field.

The activity sheet includes discussion points - seven questions the students can answer in groups or individually-, and games for the students to play such as the root beer game and surviving a zombie apocalypse.

This resource was first published on Futurum Careers, a free online resource and magazine aimed at encouraging 14-19-year-olds worldwide to pursue careers in science, tech, engineering, maths, medicine (STEM) and social sciences, humanities and the arts for people and the economy (SHAPE).

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