Context:

This assignment was created in the Fall of 2007 under the instruction of Dr. Allen Bryant Jr. as a part of CI 3110: Social Studies in the Elementary School.  The lesson was created to teach something that is misrepresented or not completely covered in elementary social studies today.

Impact:

The lesson plan attached below was designed to teach economic principles to elementary students that is not represented enough in the classroom.  As a consumerist society that relies heavily on the buying and consumption of goods, it is necessary for students to learn the value of money and how it works in our society.  The main idea taught in the lesson is how to save money and spend it on things that are necessary needs, not just wants.  Even at a very young age, it is important for students to realize this. 

It is my intention to use this later with my classroom in my future teaching career. 

Alignment:

Standard 4:  Indicator 7: Teachers understand basic economic concepts, including opportunity cost.

• This indicator is met by the purpose of the lesson.  Students are to learn how to save and budget their money, as well as how to spend their money on basic things in life and what is most important when spending their money.

Standard 4: Indicator 11: Teachers promote the basic principles of being a citizen as vital to the development of responsible members of society by promoting an understanding of character development, including: Responsibility, Integrity, Self-discipline, Caring, Respect, Perseverance, Courage, and Citizenship. 

• This indicator is met by the lesson by stressing the importance of how using your money in a society/community responsibly.  Self-dicipline is also taught with the lesson by showing students that it is most important to spend money on the basic needs of life rather than the pleasures or wants.

Standard 4: Indicator 14: Teachers apply content to life skills. Teachers provide an environment that fosters critical thinking and effective use of information.

• This standard is met by teaching the students the important life skill of saving and spending money.  The lesson sets up a mock community with play money which the students use their judgement to purchase what they need.