15 Minute Lessons

15 Minute Lessons:
Why does Economics deserve to be taught in your school? In the inaugural issue of Econ Exchange, John Morton wrote: “Our answer assumes that economics is much more than a bundle of concepts. It is a unique way of thinking that offers insights into the seemingly chaotic confusion of human behavior in a world of different values, resources, and cultures. Note the emphasis on human behavior. Economics is not the study of money. Almost every aspect of human behavior can be analyzed using an economic approach. It is this distinctive approach, not a definite set of conclusions, that counts."

Economics enhances understanding across the academic curriculum. Instead of seeing it as a separate course to be taught in an already over-crowded day, many teachers infuse economic principles into their existing curriculum as a way to help students become better decision-makers regardless of the subject matter. While all these “15 Minute Lessons” may not be timed precisely, all are short, concise lessons and activities designed to fit into a wide variety of subject areas, from helping young children learn to pack their backpacks more efficiently to looking at the opportunity cost of war , to exploring ways to motivate students to be on time for class.

Teachers know they benefit when parents are involved in schools. Suggestions to help with this are found in Tips for Parents. There is also a series of lessons to promote vocabulary building with ideas to help students and teachers become comfortable using the language of economics.

We will be working on these lessons regularly and hope you will check this section often. We welcome your feedback. If you have comments or a suggestion for a "15 Minute lesson" that illustrates one concept, send it to us.

Thus far, we have lessons below. Read through the summaries, and click on the ones that interest you. Be sure to send us feedback of what did and did not work for you, using the form on the left hand side of your screen.