FlexFriday: Reacting to the Past!
On Friday, May 17th, FlexSchool students will be led by visiting historian Cynthia Metcalf in one of Barnard College's Reacting to the Past role-playing games. Here is the scenario:
Mayhem at the Convention
In August 1968, Democrats gather at their National Convention in Chicago to debate a platform for a deeply divided party. Factions are split over issues such as civil rights, infrastructure, and the war on poverty—not to mention the war in Vietnam. Meanwhile, crowds of protesters descend upon the city. Impassioned antiwar protesters plan sit-ins and marches, while the absurdist Yippies, determined to make a mockery of the Convention, intend to nominate a pig for president. Journalists flood the area to cover the stories of the delegates and protesters.
Over the course of this game, players will develop a better understanding of the complexities of the social and cultural tumult that has come to be known as “the Sixties.” Chicago 1968 plunges students into the policy debates and protests at the fractured Democratic National Convention.
In anticipation to this highly engaging game, Bronxville students will be given character sheets with distinct motives and personalities, and will be encouraged (but not required) to dress up in character!
Over the course of this game, players will develop a better understanding of the complexities of the social and cultural tumult that has come to be known as “the Sixties.” Chicago 1968 plunges students into the policy debates and protests at the fractured Democratic National Convention.
In anticipation to this highly engaging game, Bronxville students will be given character sheets with distinct motives and personalities, and will be encouraged (but not required) to dress up in character!
