Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to create a menu plan for 7 days within a given budget, research and compile a shopping list, and compare the costs and advantages of owning a car versus traveling by public transport.

Materials and Prep

• Computer with internet access
• Cookbooks or access to online recipe websites
• Pen and paper
• Calculator

Activities

1. Research and Menu Planning

Using cookbooks or online recipe websites, research and select recipes for each day of the week. Consider the nutritional needs of your family and try to include a variety of meals. Write down the chosen recipes for each day.

2. Budgeting and Shopping List

Using the selected recipes, create a shopping list with all the necessary ingredients. Research online for current prices or visit a virtual grocery store to estimate the costs. Include personal items, pet food, cleaning products, and any other miscellaneous items needed. Use the calculator to keep track of the total cost and make adjustments if necessary to stay within the $250 budget.

3. Comparison: Car vs Public Transport

Research and gather information on car costs such as depreciation, interest rates, third party insurance, and full comprehensive insurance. Understand the difference between third party and comprehensive car insurance. Estimate monthly maintenance costs and potential repair costs. Research the yearly car license and registration fees. Calculate the cost of a return ticket from home to the airport and from home to Armadale shopping center by public transport for 5 days. Compare the total costs of owning a car versus traveling by public transport. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Eighth Grade Talking Points

• "Today, we will be using our budgeting and research skills to create a menu plan for our family and compare the costs of owning a car versus traveling by public transport."
• "We will start by researching recipes and selecting meals for each day of the week. This will help us ensure we have a variety of healthy and nutritious options."
• "Next, we will create a shopping list based on our chosen recipes. We will research prices online or visit a virtual grocery store to estimate the costs. It's important to stay within our budget of $250."
• "After that, we will explore the costs associated with owning a car. We will look at factors such as depreciation, interest rates, insurance options, and maintenance expenses. We will also calculate the cost of using public transport for 5 days."
• "By the end of the lesson, we will compare the total costs of owning a car versus using public transport and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option."