This is a game based on the Public Goods Game. In the traditional setting, each team gets a fair amount of points to hoard or donate to a community pot. The points in the community pot are multiplied and distributed equally among the teams. Suppose a team does not donate to the community pot. In that case, they will probably win the round because they still receive the payout from the community pot. By not contributing, they give up nothing while getting all the benefits. They are a drain on the system. If every team were to contribute all their points every time, the potential points every team would receive would be maximized, which would be the best way to play the game. However, the temptation to win the round usually overcomes the will to play as a team.

This version of the Public Goods Game does not have an initial equitable point distribution because the teams will earn their points through the athletic endeavor. Each round has a new twist, which may alter how the teams play the game. In the end, it is revealed to the students that they are not competing against each other. In fact, they were all one big team representing a system that functions the best when all resources are given to the common good. This lesson explains how cells, tissues, and organs cooperate to keep an organism alive.

Materials: 

·      An ample open space (such as a gym or field)

·      Several sports balls can be used for juggling. I allowed the students to juggle soccer balls or volleyballs for this lesson.

Minimum Amount of Students Needed: This game could be played with as few as nine players if you make three teams of three. However, sixteen would be the best number for four teams of four, and more students can be accommodated easily.

Age: All Ages