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LESSON: THE TERRIBLE THING THAT HAPPENED AT OUR HOUSE
Lesson Summary
A little girl and her brother felt that mum and dad were no longer the "real" mother and father they used to be when their mum decided to be a science teacher. When their parents really listened to them and found out what they were feeling, they worked it out together as a family.
Concept: Opportunity Cost
Definition: When you make a decision, the most valuable alternative you give up is your opportunity cost.
Comprehension Questions:
Why did the little girl and her brother think that their mother used to be a real mother?
Their mother used to be with them all the time and took care of every detail of their lives. Their mother would be at the door to kiss them and say goodbye when they were leaving for school. She would satisfy all their economic wants. She would provide them with toasted cheese sandwiches or tuna on a bun for lunch. They would have chocolate pudding or a cupcake for dessert. She would give them snacks and milk. Their mother would read to them, help them to make things, and take them to the park.
What was the opportunity cost for their mother when she went back to being a science teacher?
Her opportunity cost was things she could no longer do at home because of the time spent at work, such as preparing lunch for the children, etc.
What was the opportunity cost for their father when their mother went back to being a science teacher?
He had less time to talk, help with homework, read stories, or take the children to the garage.
When their parents found out how upset their children were after their mother had gone back to teaching, they decided to make some changes in their lifestyle. What changes did they make?
They decided to get their neighbor, Louisa, to take care of their children's lunch. The children helped with dusting, picking things up in the house, folding the laundry, etc. This allowed their mother to have time to make things with them or walk to the park with them. Also, their father had more time to read stories to them.
Why did the little girl and her brother feel that things were not so terrible at their house anymore?
When the family rearranged certain things, it was still possible for the family members to spend time together.
Other Concepts: Goods and Services, Economic Wants
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