Pupils should gain a basic understanding of

• the difference between what they need and that they want
  
  
• the factors we consider when deciding which goods and services to purchase
  
  
• the power of the media and advertising as well as the legal controls that exist
  
  
• the importance of money and how it can affect our decisions

Begin the lesson by talking to the students about the types of things that they like to buy when they go shopping. Use the information that they give you to discuss their needs and wants. Would other people around the world have the same needs and wants as they have?

Ask the students to think about the factors they consider when they are making choices about which goods or services to buy. What are the most important factors for the class as a whole? How would the students make sure that the product that they are buying is really suitable for their needs?

Discuss with the students whether they feel that the media and advertising has any effect on their own purchasing habits. Also look at the legal controls that are placed on advertising and examine who ensures that these are followed.

Ask the students how they decide how much money they can spend when they go shopping? Do any of them have savings/bank accounts?