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2nd Grade  Project 4 weeks

"EconoFun: Dollars & Sense Adventure!"

Devon S
3.5.3
2.4.3
3.5.4
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse second-grade students in the fundamentals of economics through engaging, hands-on activities that connect classroom learning to real-world applications. By exploring concepts like earning, spending, and saving money, students will develop a deeper understanding of economic choices and the impact of resource limitations on production and consumption. Through interactive workshops, role-playing, and a culminating Mini Market Day, students will build critical thinking skills, enhance self-directed learning, and foster a sense of identity and belonging in their community.

Learning goals

Students will understand basic economic principles, including goods, services, and currency, through engaging storytelling and role-playing activities. They will explore the concept of trade-offs and evaluate benefits and costs in economic choices by planning and executing a 'Mini Market Day'. Through interactive workshops with community partners, students will learn about managing money, production costs, and customer service, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They will also develop self-directed learning and an academic mindset by reflecting on their experiences in a 'Money Diary' and receiving feedback from peers and community members.
Standards
  • [California] 3.5.3 - Understand that individual economic choices involve trade-offs and the evaluation of benefits and costs.
  • [California] 2.4.3 - Understand how limits on resources affect production and consumption (what to produce and what to consume).
  • [California] 3.5.4 - Discuss the relationship of students' "work" in school and their personal human capital.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Throughout the project, students will engage in hands-on activities to create homemade treats, which they will bake and package as part of their exploration of production costs and pricing strategies. By the end of the project, students will have developed a 'Classroom Market' business plan, showcasing their understanding of economic principles by running small businesses during the 'Mini Market Day' event. Additionally, students will maintain a 'Money Diary' to reflect on their experiences and insights gained from the project, fostering deeper learning and self-reflection.

Launch

Begin the project with a dynamic 'Bankers and Builders' workshop, where students actively role-play as bankers and entrepreneurs. With guidance from local bank representatives, students will simulate real-world scenarios such as opening a bank account, applying for a loan, and constructing a business plan. This immersive experience sets the stage for understanding economic choices, resource limitations, and the relationship between work and personal growth.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Mini Market Day' event where they showcase their homemade treats and small businesses to family, friends, and community members. This event will allow students to demonstrate their understanding of economic concepts, such as production costs and pricing, while engaging in real-world transactions. Participants will have the opportunity to purchase items, providing students with hands-on experience in customer service and financial literacy discussions. The event will also serve as a platform for students to present their business plans and outcomes, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community involvement.