Comparative Shopping - Which Cell Phone Plan Is Best?

Grade: 7 Lesson #13 Comparative Shopping - Which Cell Phone Plan is Best? SS.8.FL.2.1 Explain why when deciding what to buy, consumers may choose to gather information from a variety of sources. Describe how the quality and usefulness of information provided by sources can vary greatly from source to source. Explain that while many sources provide valuable information, other sources provide information that is deliberately misleading.

LAFS.68.RH.1.2 Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source distinct from prior knowledge or opinions. LAFS.68.RH.3.7 Integrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts. LAFS.68.RST.1.3 Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks. LAFS.68.RST.3.9 Compare and contrast the information gained from experiments, simulations, video, or multimedia sources with that gained from reading a text on the same topic. LAFS.7.SL.1.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 7 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly. SS.8.FL.2.1 Explain why when deciding what to buy, consumers may choose to gather information from a variety of sources. Describe how the quality and usefulness of information provided by sources can vary greatly from source to source. Explain that while many sources provide valuable information, other sources provide information that is deliberately misleading.

Comparative Shopping - Which Cell Phone Plan is Best?

Lesson #13

Correlated Florida Standards (See Full Text on Cover Page) LAFS.68.RH.1.2 LAFS.68.RH.3.7 LAFS.68.RST.1.3 LAFS.68.RST.3.9 LAFS.7.SL.1.1

Essential Question  Why is comparative shopping for goods and services so important?

Learning Goals/Objectives  List the factors one should take into consideration when shopping for goods (products) and services.  Compare and contrast products for cost and efficiency.

Overview Students will examine the factors one should consider when purchasing goods (products) and services. Students will also apply what they have learned by comparing products (i.e., cell phone plans) and deciding which product is best for their needs and their wallets.

Materials  Computers and Internet access.  Student Activity Sheet entitled, Comparative Shopping = Smart Choices.(Included in the lesson.)  Student Activity Sheet entitled, Comparing Cell Phone Plans. (Included in the lesson.)

Time 50 minutes

Activity Sequence INTRODUCTION/HOOK(10 minutes) 1. Explain to students that in this lesson, they will be learning about the importance of comparative shopping. Ask students what comparison shopping means? (The practice of comparing prices in advance of actually shopping in order to achieve the best deals and pricing on products and services.)

2. Further explain that students will complete a comparison shopping exercise for a new cell phone. Ask students: In general, if you had several different phone plans to choose from, how would you decide which one to use?" Through a classroom discussion, construct a general process for determining which cell phone plan would be most appropriate.

ACTIVITY(40 minutes) 1. Have each student read and complete the Student Activity Sheet entitled, Comparative Shopping = Smart Choices. (Included in the lesson.)Discuss the answers and the tips offered for becoming a better shopper. Ask students to also explain the meaning of the title of the activity sheet. Remind students that these guidelines/tips should be considered for all major purchases. These tips will also be helpful when completing the next activity on cell phones. (15 minutes)

2. Using the Internet or other sources, have students work in pairs to complete the Student Activity Sheet entitled, Comparing Cell Phone Plans. (Included in the lesson). (20 minutes)

3. As a class, discuss the different plans that were found. Ask: Which plan works best for you? What factors did you consider when making your decision? What other purchases would require careful comparison shopping? ( 5 minutes)

CLOSURE(10 minutes) 1. Review the concept of comparative shopping and the problems with impulse buying. Ask students to again to explain the title of their reading assignment: Comparative Shopping = Smart Choices.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION SUGGESTION/HOME LEARNING  As homework, have students complete the same cost comparison exercise for several brands of laptop computers.

Sources/Bibliographic Information that contributed to this lesson:  http://www.thirteen.org/edonline/lessons/afford/index.html  http://www.handsonbanking.org/en/resources/3_YA_Spending_Smart.pdf Comparison Shopping = Smart Choices Are you a comparison shopper? Do you do your research before buying items? Let’s see if we can help make you smarter buyers! First, answer the following on the back of this activity sheet:

1. Give an example of a time you bought an item on impulse (You bought it because you just had the urge!) Was it a good purchase? Could you have possibly purchased the same item or a similar item at a lower price? In your opinion, is impulse buying wise?

2. List three things you think you should consider before making a major purchase like a new cell phone or computer: Now, let’s see if we can help make you become a smart and more satisfied buyer. Follow these simple rules when making an important purchase.

1. Consider your needs. Is this item something you just want or is it something you truly need? Think about your real purpose in making the purchase.

2. Check your budget. Decide how much you can spend on this purchase and still have enough money for your other expenses. Watch for sales and special offers before buying the item.

3. Research first.Remember, buyer beware! Read online reviews of the product. Ask others for advice. Determine when, how, and where to buy the item to get the most for your money. Check warranties carefully.Finally, inspect the item and try it in the store before you buy.

4. Comparison shop. Shop around by the Internet to save you time, effort, and transportation costs. Compare ads in newspapers and catalogues. Call at least three stores to compare prices, models, and return policies.

5. Shop for value. Remember: your goal is best overall value, not just the lowest price. Look for the features and quality you want, good customer service, a fair price, and a flexible return policy. Save your receipts in case there is a problem with the purchase and do not forget to register the product with the manufacturer, if applicable. 6. Return unsatisfactory products. If there’s a problem after you buy the item, speak to the store manager. They should be motivated to solve your problem and keep you as a customer. Again, save your receipts!

Source: Purchasing tips adapted from Hands on Banking, http://www.handsonbanking.org/en/resources/3_YA_Spending_Smart.pdf Comparing Cell Phone Plans

Student Names: ______

Directions: 1. Working with your partner, compare two cell phone plans by answering the questions below. Record your answers on the chart. 2. Before you begin, both students should calculate the amount of time spent on the phone in a month. (Figure out the number of minutes you talk each day and night and multiply by that number by 30)

Question Plan A : Company’s Name: Plan B: Company’s Name:

What is the cost of the plan per month?

How many minutes does the plan allow per month?

Is there a fee if the allowed minutes are exceeded? If yes, what is the added fee?

How much data for Internet, etc. does the plan provide? Question Plan A : Company’s Name: Plan B: Company’s Name:

What other parts of the plan are helpful to you?

What other parts of the plan may be a problem for you?

Answer the following questions:

1. Which cellphone plan did each of you select? Why is it a better plan for you?

2. List three comparative shopping strategies you used when deciding on the best cell phone plan:

3. What other purchases would also require careful comparison shopping? Why?