• In this set of economic and social studies lessons, students will consider their wants and needs, discuss how they meet them, and learn about the economic concept of scarcity. 
• Students will sort images into needs and wants, brainstorm ways to meet their needs, and think about what happens when there isn't enough to meet everyone's needs or wants. 
• The lessons can be completed in three to five 30-minute classes. 

Positives

• This resource has everything you need to deliver an inquiry-based mini-unit on wants and needs. 
• The picture sorts and class discussions are engaging and will allow students to come to their own conclusions. 
• Appendix A offers a vocabulary list with definitions.

Additional Prerequisites

• A subscription is needed to access some of the additional resources, but they are not necessary components of the unit. 
• Students should be able to use scissors and glue to complete the picture sort. 

Differentiation

• Cross-curricular connections could be made in health, language arts, and science classes. The following questions could guide other discussions:
  • What are healthy ways people meet their needs?
  • How can you control your emotions when you do not get what you want?
  • Can anyone remember a time we read about a character meeting their needs?
  • Can anyone remember a time we read about a character who got or didn't get what they wanted?
  • How do animals in the wild meet their wants and needs? 
• The picture sort could be extended by asking students to find additional pictures in newspapers or magazines to cut out and sort. 
• Advanced students could debate or defend their decisions on how to sort the three more ambiguous choices in the picture sort (lunch box, ice cream, family). 
• Other related resources include this video about habitat basics, this digital book about turning water into energy, and this set of games that teach about environmental issues through play. 

This resource addresses the listed standards. To fully meet standards, search for more related resources.