Eighth Grade Economics Activity: Creating a Classroom Economy

Title: Creating a Classroom Economy

Compliance: Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSS-M), National Standards in K-12 Personal Finance Education

Subject: Economics

Summary: This activity engages students in creating and managing a classroom economy, allowing them to apply economic concepts in a hands-on and interactive way.

Topic: Classroom Economy

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the basic concepts of economics, such as supply and demand, scarcity, and opportunity cost.
• Apply economic principles to real-life situations.
• Develop financial literacy skills, including budgeting, saving, and making informed choices.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with peers.

Methodology:

This activity will be conducted over a series of weeks to allow students to fully engage in the classroom economy. The methodology includes the following steps:

1. Introduction (1 class period): Begin by introducing the basic concepts of economics, such as supply and demand, scarcity, and opportunity cost. Discuss the importance of financial literacy and its relevance to everyday life.
2. Setting up the Classroom Economy (1 class period): Explain the rules and procedures of the classroom economy. Assign roles to students, such as bankers, storekeepers, and consumers. Distribute play money and create a system for earning and spending.
3. Creating Businesses (2-3 class periods): Divide students into small groups and have them brainstorm and create their own businesses. They should consider the products or services they will offer, pricing strategies, and marketing techniques. Each group will present their business plan to the class.
4. Running the Classroom Economy (ongoing): Allow students to engage in buying and selling goods and services within the classroom economy. Encourage them to save money, make informed choices, and consider the concepts of supply and demand.
5. Reflection and Evaluation (1 class period): Facilitate a class discussion where students reflect on their experiences in the classroom economy. Discuss the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned, and the importance of economic principles in their daily lives.

Resources/Materials Required:

• Textbooks or online resources on basic economic concepts
• Play money (can be printed or purchased)
• Whiteboard or chart paper for brainstorming
• Art supplies for creating business posters or advertisements

Instructions:

Follow the steps below to implement the activity:

1. Introduce the basic concepts of economics in a clear and engaging manner, using examples and real-life scenarios.
2. Explain the rules and procedures of the classroom economy, ensuring that students understand their roles and responsibilities.
3. Allow students time to brainstorm and create their own businesses, providing guidance and support as needed.
4. Provide opportunities for students to engage in buying and selling within the classroom economy, monitoring their progress and offering guidance when necessary.
5. Facilitate a reflection and evaluation session where students can share their experiences and insights gained from participating in the classroom economy.

Assessment:

Assess students' understanding and application of economic concepts through the following methods:

• Observation of students' participation and engagement in the classroom economy
• Review of students' business plans and presentations
• Class discussions and reflections

By the end of the activity, students should:

• Know: The basic concepts of economics, including supply and demand, scarcity, and opportunity cost.
• Understand: The importance of financial literacy and its relevance to everyday life.
• Can do: Apply economic principles to real-life situations, collaborate effectively with peers, and make informed choices within a classroom economy.