Reality Check: Game Overview

Game: Reality Check

Topic: Cost of Living

Source: www.JumpStart.org  

Recommended Age: High School

Length of Game:  5-10 minutes

URL:  http://www.jumpstart.org/madmoney/pgv_money_rc_main.html

Technical Requirements:

• Computer with Internet access

What the Kids Learn:

• A realistic idea of the cost of living
• An introduction to thinking about wise financial decisions, budgeting, etc.

How to Use:

• This game would make a good introduction to a lesson on personal finances.  (You will note that this game is the suggested opening activity for the lesson “Living on Your Own 1.”) It is an easy way to get kids thinking about economic topics and to see just how relevant these topics are to their lives.

How to Play:

• Go to http://www.jumpstart.org/madmoney/pgv_money_rc_main.html
• Read the introduction, and click “Enter”
• For each question/area, click on the bubble in front of your choice.
• When you have made all your choices, click on “Reality Check.”
• You will then see how much you need to make per hour and per week to support the lifestyle you have chosen.  You will also see information about the level of education that sort of salary will require.