U.S. and Japanese Transportation Innovations in the 1950s and 1960s” (Meeting Needs and Wants – Middle School CBA)

U.S. and Japanese Transportation Innovations in the 1950s and 1960s" (Meeting Needs and Wants - Middle School CBA)

During World War II Japan’s economy was destroyed by military attacks, use of scarce resources for military purposes, and severed trade relations. Transport was nearly impossible, and urban industrial production halted. During the 50s and 60s the government rapidly expanded investment in Japan’s infrastructure: building highways, high-speed railways, subways, airports, port facilities, and dams. Students will explore not only Japan’s transportation innovations during the middle of the 20th century but also look at the U.S. expansion of its highway system and the opportunity cost (trade-offs) of commuting. This unit will introduce students to U.S. and Japanese geography and population density. Students will also explore who “won” and “lost” as a result of transportation developments.

Washington State Curriculum Based Assessment (CBA): Meeting Needs and Wants

This document is intended to assist teachers who are implementing the Meeting Needs and Wants CBA for middle school students, but may also be useful to anyone teaching about economics, world history, and geography.

The Meeting Needs and Wants CBA states:
“As a citizen and member of a community, you need to have an understanding of different economic systems. You will analyze the methods that societies use to meet the economic needs and wants of citizens.”

What does the CBA require students to do?
1) Describe examples of how two societies have met their needs and wants.
2) Explain how both societies’ rights, values, and/or beliefs have affected their economic choices.
3) Compare and contrast the two groups’ economic choices citing specific similarities and differences.
4) Show a thorough understanding of opportunity cost through explanation and analysis.

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