This role play is a favourite I've used many times to have students understand how British North America's colonial government worked (or rather, didn't work). It emphasizes creative problem solving and historical perspective. Essentially, after explaining how the colonial system was structured (with the oligarchical Family Compact and Château Clique and governor essentially running the place), students adopt roles, find out who is who, and attempt to pass a bill into law under this system1) Sli