Instructional

Software
Lesson Idea Name: Exploring Economics
Content Area: Social Studies
Grade Level(s): 5th Grade

Content Standard Addressed: SS5E2. Describe the functions of four major sectors in the U.S. economy

Technology Standard Addressed: 3- Knowledge Constructor

Selected Technology Tool: BrainPop.com

URL(s) to support the lesson (if applicable):
https://www.brainpop.com/socialstudies/africanamericanhistory/jazz/

Type of Instructional Software:

☐ Drill and Practice ☒ Tutorial ☐ Simulation ☐ Instructional Game ☐ e-books/e-references

Features of this software (check all that apply):

☐ Assessment Monitoring/Reporting
☐ Allows teacher to create customized lessons for students
☐ Multi-user or collaborative functions with others in the class
☐ Multi-user or collaborative with others outside the class
☒ Accessible to students beyond the school day
☒ Accessible via mobile devices
☒ Multiple languages
☒ Safety, security and/or privacy features

Bloom’s Taxonomy Level(s):

☒ Remembering ☒ Understanding ☐ Applying ☐ Analyzing ☐ Evaluating ☐ Creating

Levels of Technology Integration (LoTi Level):

☐ Level 1: Awareness ☐ Level 2: Exploration ☒ Level 3: Infusion ☐ Level 4: Integration

☐ Level 5: Expansion ☐ Level 6: Refinement

Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Students can review videos both in the classroom and at home,
allowing parents the opportunity for involvement in the lesson. Students view videos together or alone with
headphones to not disturb other working students. English language learners in the class may utilize ESL
videos to further support their transition to English.

Lesson idea implementation:
The BrainPop video will be used to introduce the economic principle of budgeting at the beginning of a week.
The students will engage in a class discussion on things people typically spend money on- things you need to
live, things for fun, bills, and so on. After viewing the video, the class will split into 4 groups based on the four
major sectors of economy: household, private business, bank, and government. Using the Media Center and
online resources, each group will research what types of funds are going into and out of each sector. Each
group will then participate in a project to create a sample budget for their designated section.

Spring 2018_SJB
 Instructional Software
The students will determine the way in which they present their project and give a presentation at the end of
the week: digital presentation, podcast, short movie, etc. A rubric will be available to aid students in designing
their budgets. Each group will complete a reflection on all 4 sectors at the end of the project. Students will
receive feedback at the project’s completion with a graded rubric.
Reflective Practice:
Extending the lesson might involve expanded discussions on taxes and debt to generate an increased
understanding of economics as a whole. Students can extend their projects by inviting a financial expert to
become a part of their groups to discuss the benefits of sound financial practices.

Spring 2018_SJB