Learning Objectives
- Define the concept of a monopoly and its characteristics.
- Analyze the economic implications of monopolistic control over resources.
- Discuss how monopolies influence pricing, consumer choice, and resource allocation.
Materials Needed
- Video: Craster’s Monopoly: Control Beyond the Wall
- Whiteboard or digital presentation software for visual aids.
- Worksheet on monopoly analysis (provided below).
Lesson Steps
1. Engage (5 minutes)
- Begin with a discussion: “What happens when one person controls something that everyone needs?”
- Show the Craster’s Monopoly: Control Beyond the Wall video.
2. Explore (15 minutes)
Discussion Questions (Post-Video):
- What resources does Craster have a monopoly on? (Food and warmth beyond the wall.)
- How does Craster use his monopoly power to control the rangers of the Night’s Watch?
- What are the consequences for those who rely on Craster’s resources?
3. Explain (10 minutes)
Use the whiteboard or presentation to explain:
- Definition of a Monopoly:
- A market structure where a single seller controls the entire supply of a good or service.
- Characteristics of Craster’s Monopoly:
- Barriers to Entry: No alternative sources of food or warmth beyond the wall.
- Price Control: Craster sets the terms for payment (extracting high costs from the Night’s Watch).
- Lack of Competition: No viable substitutes for the resources he provides.
- Impacts of a Monopoly:
- Economic: Higher prices and reduced access for consumers (the Night’s Watch).
- Ethical: Abuse of power due to lack of competition or regulation.
- Evaluate (5 minutes)
- Reflection Question: “If you were in charge of regulating Craster’s Keep, what would you do to reduce the negative impacts of his monopoly?”
- Encourage students to consider ethical and practical solutions (e.g., creating alternative food sources or forming alliances to reduce dependency).
Assessment
- Participation in discussion and group activity.
- Completion of the monopoly analysis worksheet.
- Quality of responses in the reflection question.
Extension Opportunity:
Have students research a real-world monopoly and compare it to Craster’s Keep. This can include industries like tech, healthcare, or utilities.