Hillcrest HS American History Classes Learn How Taxes Affected the Colonists

In Ms. Kristin Kaczmarek and Mrs. Ellen Nielsen’s American History classes, students learned first hand how taxes affected the colonists. One student was assigned to be the King and several were assigned to be Parliament/Tax Collectors. As the King came up with different taxes, each of the colonists had to pay the tax collectors with their coveted candy money. Taxes varied from 1-3 pieces of candy and laws were ranging from wearing green to having your phone out in class. Many students were able to understand different points of view: colonists, tax collectors, and the king after the activity. Students were able to see how the colonists felt as they ran out of money due to the heavy taxes. They were also able to feel the frustration of losing all your money for taxes and not being able to support your families. Students who played the role of Parliament were able to see how Parliament was just doing their job and trying to make the king happy by making money for him. Ms. Kaczmarek stated that, “This activity was a lot of fun and students were able to see the big picture after completing this activity.”