Historically, goods and services are allocated within an economic system in three different ways. Traditional economic systems like that used by the ancient Maya rely on the barter system. In command economies like the former Soviet Union, allocation of goods is decided by leaders. Market economies like the United States are based on forces of supply and demand, with the people determining the allocation of goods.

You will research three types of economic systems: traditional, command, and market. Drawing on historical examples gathered from Daily Life through History articles, you will compose a persuasive essay in which you will argue that goods and services are allocated more effectively within one type of economic system than the other two types of systems.

Look at the photograph below. Answer the following questions on a separate sheet of paper.

Soviet Union, 1955: On a state-run collective farm, a tractor pulls non-mechanized farming instruments.

• What is taking place on this Soviet collective farm? What types of machinery are being used?
• What does this photograph reveal about the command economic system in the former Soviet Union?

Use the Daily Life through History articles listed on the right to research the three types of economic systems and the effects of each on individuals and societies, including the Maya, the former Soviet Union, the United States, and Japan. Examine the images that accompany the articles. As you read, note historical examples of how goods and serves are allocated within each system. Be sure to record specific pieces of evidence that will support your thesis.

Use the 3-Column Table to organize your information. Label the columns using the types of economic systems: Traditional, Command, and Market. Under these headings, list characteristics of each system.

Once you have read the articles and filled in your 3-Column Table, outline your essay. Start with a thesis statement, and make sure that you have clear and coherent arguments, as well as factual evidence to support your thesis. When the outline is complete, write your persuasive essay.

Your teacher will use these questions to assess your performance:

• Did you clearly state your thesis?
• Did you provide sufficient evidence for your thesis, including facts and examples from the reading?
• Is your essay focused and organized?