The Trade Fair has been one of the most anticipated and engaging learning experiences in Lauren Tanner’s fifth-grade classroom. What has become a classroom favorite continues to provide students with a hands-on opportunity to explore history, economics, and character development in meaningful ways.
The Trade Fair is designed to help students understand trading, bartering, and foundational economic principles through hands-on participation. In the weeks leading up to the event, students study what life was like for Indigenous Peoples when Europeans first arrived in North America and examine how trade influenced those early encounters. Discussions focus on how goods, resources, relationships, and differing perspectives shaped history.
To prepare for the fair, each student creates at least one item to trade, often using materials from home or natural resources. On the day of the event, Cardinal Hall transforms into a marketplace filled with negotiation, excitement, and decision-making. Students quickly discover that value is subjective and that not every trade feels equal. Some realize that what seems like a good deal at first may not feel that way later — a powerful lesson in perspective and economic choice.
Beyond the intended academic outcomes, the Trade Fair also highlighted important character traits. Several students demonstrated compassion by offering extra handmade items to classmates who did not have crafts prepared, ensuring everyone could participate. Yet another CARDS characteristic that was evident was determination, as students worked to create desirable items.
Following the fair, students participated in a thoughtful reflection. Questions such as “Was every trade fair?” and “Did anyone end up with something they didn’t want?” helped students connect their personal experiences to historical trade relationships between Native Peoples and Europeans.
Through this engaging and reflective experience, students gained a deeper understanding of economics, history, and character — proving that some of the most meaningful lessons come from learning by doing.
Great work, Mrs. Tanner! This learning experience is one your students won't soon forget!
