Lesson Plan

Grades 9-12

Needs vs. Wants in a Finite World

This lesson plan must be purchased as part of a lesson packet or as part of a full curriculum that is available in our store.

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10 minutes (Part 1); 20 minutes (Part 2)

SUBJECTS: Science, Social Studies

TOPICS: Needs/Wants, Personal Consumption

Resource Overview

Students discuss the varying levels of human needs and then evaluate their own needs and wants and the resources required to meet them.

Students will be able to:
  • Explain Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in their own words.
  • Differentiate their own needs from wants.
  • Analyze their needs and wants in order to prioritize them.
  • Distinguish between what constitutes a need or a want for different people.
A woman holding carrots and other vegetables in a paper bag.

Features of This Resource

  • Lesson plan covers Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
  • Opportunity to practice responsible decision-making (SEL competency)
  • Students evaluate the of consequences of choices
  • Connection between our needs/wants and resources can be used to explore ecological footprints

How Do I Get This Lesson Plan?

This lesson plan must be purchased as part of a lesson packet or as part of a full curriculum that is available in our store.

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