Entry 4

We just finished an economics unit in my first grade class.  One may think this topic is difficult to incorporate into such a young grade, but my students had a blast learning about needs, wants, jobs, services, volunteers, and money.  I planned and collaborated with the other first grade teachers and organized for our students to work over a two-week period to earn two dollars (by doing chores at home).  This assignment was communicated to the parents/guardians so they were aware of what they needed to do for this specific assignment.  To include all students in this project, we had communicated with the administration to ensure that we could cover the funds for students who could not afford to bring in the money. 

            With the two dollars that each student earned, it bought him or her a McDonald's happy meal (hamburger, cheeseburger, or chicken nuggets that included a drink and fries).  Each student had the choice to pick what meal they wanted.  Students experienced how good it felt to work for their money, and then were excited when they saw what their hard work earned them.  This hands-on activity also demonstrated how essential it is to save money in order to buy things in the real world.

            To incorporate the jobs part of the economics unit, we had parents come in and speak with our students about their careers.  The students also responded positively to this activity, as they were eager to learn about the many options they will have when they grow up.  To help students remember the vast amount of jobs that were discussed, I put together and made each student a book that had pictures and information about each job.  It was powerful to see how engaged my students were throughout this entire unit.