======Tragedy of the Commons Fishing Simulation======


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**Materials: **{{$demo.materials_description}}\\
**Difficulty: **{{$demo.difficulty_description}}\\
**Safety: **{{$demo.safety_description}}\\
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**Categories:** {{$demo.categories}}
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**Alternative titles:** Shared Resources Depletion Activity
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  -Divide students into groups of 3–4 and give each group a plate with a set number of colored marshmallows (fish).  
  -Explain the point system (each color fish has a different value).  
  -Students construct simple “nets” using tape, straws, and a paper towel boat.  
  -In timed rounds (about 30 seconds), students “fish” for as many marshmallows as possible.  
  -At the end of each round, replenish the fish population: for every two of the same color left, add two more of that color.  
  -Continue for several rounds, recording catches and resource levels.  
  -Discuss which groups sustained their fish populations and which collapsed.  




====Links==== 
Happy Fishing (Tragedy of the Commons) Simulation - Teaching AP Science: 
{{youtube>5ZNoYitZJdM?}}\\


📄 Happy Fishing (Tragedy of the Commons) Simulation - Teaching AP Science: [[https://teachingapscience.com/tragedy-commons-5e/]]\\


====Variations====
  *Use different food items (goldfish crackers, M&Ms) or reusable beads instead of marshmallows.  
  *Change reproduction rules to mimic different species’ reproductive strategies.  
  *Introduce regulations (catch limits) partway through the game and compare outcomes.



====Safety Precautions====
  *If using food items, ensure students with allergies are protected.  
  *Do not eat marshmallows or other items that have been handled during the game.  
  *Clean up thoroughly to avoid attracting pests.




====Questions to Consider====
  *What happens to shared resources when individuals prioritize personal gain?  
  *How do rules and regulations change the sustainability of resource use?  
  *What real-world examples of commons can you identify? (Fisheries, grazing lands, atmosphere, groundwater.)  
  *How does cooperation affect the long-term availability of resources?