Students play a game where they review items people can buy and decide which ones are needs and which are wants.
Topic
Spend (Buying things)
Subject
English or language arts, Physical education or health
Grade Level
Elementary school (K-1)
Duration
15-20 minutes
Big idea
Understanding how needs and wants are different can help you decide the best way to spend your money.
Essential questions
- What is a need?
- What is a want?
Objectives
- Understand the difference between needs and wants
- Identify things people can buy that are needs and things that are wants
What students will do
- Explore the difference between needs and wants.
- Play a game where the students decide which items are needs and which are wants.
Download activity
Teacher guide
cfpb_building_block_activities_playing-need-or-want-game_guide.pdf
Note: Please remember to consider your students’ accommodations and special needs to ensure that all students are able to participate in a meaningful way.
