Exploring Cost and Savings Using Children's Literature

Materials and Technology

Printouts

Websites

Preparation

 

MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGY

• A Chair for My Mother: 25th Anniversary Edition by Vera B. Williams (HarperTrophy, 2007)
  
  
• Computers with Internet access
  
  
• Transparencies and overhead projector (optional)
  
  
• SMART board or other interactive white board (optional)
  
  
• LCD projector (optional)
  
  
• AirLiner or other wireless slate (optional)

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PRINTOUTS

• Opinion Rubric
  
  
• Cost Comparison Chart
  
  
• Savings Plan

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WEBSITES

• JCPenney.com
• Walmart.com
• Kmart.com
• Googolplex Savings Calculator

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PREPARATION

1.	Read and familiarize yourself with the story A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams. You will need one copy of this book for each student in your class.
2.	During Session 1, you will discuss something of value that you either lost or broke during your life. Prepare for this discussion, including thinking about what you did to recover or replace the item.
3.	Print the following prompt on chart paper for Session 2: "What do you think is the best way for Rosa's family to get a chair for Rosa's mother? Why do you think as you do? Give at least two reasons."
4.	Visit and familiarize yourself with the websites listed in the Resources. Students will use commercial websites to compare prices on pieces of furniture. Collect print catalogues or circulars for them to use as well; these will be especially important if your school blocks commercial websites.
5.	Make one copy of the Opinion Rubric, Cost Comparison Chart, and Savings Plan for each student in your class. In addition, make large posters or transparencies of the Cost Comparison Chart and the Savings Plan.
6.	If you do not have classroom computers with Internet access, reserve two sessions in your school's computer lab for Sessions 3 and 4. If possible, obtain an interactive whiteboard or LCD projector and a wireless slate.

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