Needs & Wants in a Zombie Apocalypse: Creative Social Science Activity

Understanding the difference between needs and wants for students lays the foundation for responsible decisions and financial literacy. However, explaining this abstract concept in a way that engages young minds can be tough. That's where our journey begins!

In this creative printable activity, students will assume the role of survivors in a world overrun by zombies. They will reflect on the different scenarios and obstacles that will require them to differentiate between their characters' basic survival necessities and their characters' desires or wishes. By utilising critical thinking, imaginative problem-solving, and storytelling, students will not only understand the idea of distinguishing between needs and wants but also develop essential skills such as teamwork, resilience, and empathy.

Let's get creative!

Printable & Activity Objectives

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Age: 8 to 9 year olds, Activity Time: 2-3 hours, Items Needed: Writing and colouring pencils

In this creative activity, students assume the roles of survivors in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. Through a creative writing challenge, students must navigate their characters' survival needs while distinguishing them from their desires or wants.

It will help your child or student with:

Critical Thinking: The game challenges students to analyze different situations and determine what is truly essential (needs) for survival, while distinguishing it from what is merely desirable (wants).
Creative Expression: The creative setting of a zombie apocalypse inspires students to think outside the box as they develop their characters, storylines, and solutions to survival challenges.
Empathy and Perspective-Taking: By taking on the roles of survivors, students can better understand differing perspectives and needs, considering how their characters' wants and needs may differ from others, and fostering empathy and perspective-taking skills.
Teamwork and Collaboration: This activity involves collaboration, like group discussions and collective problem-solving. Overcoming challenges as a team encourages cooperation among students.

Let's get going!

Classroom Resources

Simple steps to start:

Research and learn more about the concepts of "needs" versus "wants". Here's a fun and easy explanation video about the difference between needs and wants:

Bonus: Here's an interesting video about the fascinating history of the concept of the undead or zombies from the traditional folklore of the continent of Africa to Hollywood: