Dollars and Sense

Upper elementary and middle school learners explore currencies from a variety of countries. They use the Internet, video, and engage in hands-on activities. They practice converting U.S. currency to foreign currency and vice versa. This...

Fifth graders share the book, "The Story of Money" and discuss the uses of money, bartering, trade and the history of money. Students discuss various ways of spending: cash, check, debit/credit cards and review the check writing process....

Seventh graders examine currency rates. In this exchange rate lesson, 7th graders visit selected websites to determine the exchange rates between specified currencies.

Why did the Chinese develop paper money? They were the first society to use paper currency. Learners consider why paper money was more convenient than other mechanisms of trade using a helpful lesson plan, which includes a graphic...

Sixth graders research the Spanish influence on early colonial America and the process of establishing the present U.S. currency. They read and discuss an informational handout in small groups, and take a short quiz. Students then...

Students examine the economic effects of a strong and weak U.S. dollar. They identify the currency used in countries which regularly trade with the U.S., discuss the pros and cons of a strong U.S. dollar, and calculate the prices in...

Put economics and currency exchange rates into a real-world application kids can understand. They'll compare bus fares from various cities around the world. Each child selects three international cities to research. They determine the...

Investigate life along the Old Spanish Trail! They visit websites and identify the history and environment. They create journals, dramatic enactments, and maps to discover the role individuals played in society. They also explore the...

Students share ideas about the values of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar. They research the economy of a foreign country and prepare a budget for one month study abroad.

Sixth graders explore the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. In this history lesson, 6th graders consider the problems created when each colony had independent currencies. Students problem solve other related weaknesses.