3.Teens need to appreciate all the ways money matters in our society. Money matters in our society for several reasons: A. Money allows us to purchase the things we need for survival. At the most basic level of survival, humans need food, shelter (including utilities), and clothing. Money is what allows us to acquire and maintain these things. THInk AbOUT IT: Have the students list on page 7 of the Journal all the things they need for basic survival. B. Money promotes comfort in our daily lives and gives us choices. Beyond our necessities, money is the tool that allows us to choose how we want to eat, where we want to live, and how we want to dress, earn, be educated, and enjoy a different lifestyle. Money makes the difference between what we need and being able to afford what we want. THInk AbOUT IT: Have the students list on page 7 of the Journal all the things they want on a daily basis to add comfort to their lives. C. Money establishes our boundaries. Like it or not, the amount of money that we have access to (including our ability to obtain credit and accumulate debt) defines the boundaries within which our lives are lived. For example, money often influences a young person’s social networks. What would happen over time if your group of friends always picked weekend activities that required more money than you had to spend? Or what if you have more money than your best friend? THInk AbOUT IT: Have the students list on page 7 of the Journal examples of how money establishes boundaries in their own lives. D. Money illustrates our values and beliefs. If you look at what someone spends their money (and their time) on, you can often discover what they value and what they believe. THInk AbOUT IT: Lead your students as they complete page 8 of the Journal. Discussion questions: • List three valuables that you would want to take with you if your home suddenly caught on fire. • What type of value do you put on these items? Monetary or sentimental? • For how much money would you sell these things? ACT ON IT | Money and Values Have students individually complete the Money and Values activity found on pages 9-10 of the Journal. 13-20 4 | MONEY HABITUDESTM COPYRIGHT © 2011 BY THE DIBBLE INSTITUTE