Category: Consumerism

Hexagonal Keyword Links

by K.Graybill • March 24, 2023 • 1 Comment

Several years ago I learned about the teaching strategy called Hexagonal Thinking. There are many variations on how to utilize the concept in class, but the one I want to focus on is the Hexagonal Keyword Links for FACS Content. This is a great brainstorm, review or assessment activity to use with your students to see how they apply the information related to topics you are covering. Read on to see how Hexagonal Keyword Links works and all of the ready to use examples. As always, if you have ideas for others, please let me know.

Inflation & The Family

by K.Graybill • October 28, 2022 • 0 Comments

Inflation! It’s everywhere, all at once, affecting everyone! The lessons and activities found in this “Inflation & The Family” post will help students understand the impact of it on a variety of families. Additionally, students will explore ways that families can fight inflation.

Cleats For a Cause

by K.Graybill • July 29, 2022 • 0 Comments

Cleats For a Cause, was inspired by the NFL: My Cause Cleats program. Players select a cause they are passionate about and represent their selected organization via custom designed cleats. All proceeds raised go to their cause or charity. I wanted to adapt/recreate this creative project and connect it to charitable giving. This lesson and project provides both hands-on and digital components, keeping your students engaged while learning how to be responsible in choosing and supporting an important cause.

$10 Meal Challenge Project

by K.Graybill • June 24, 2022 • 0 Comments

Beth Beattie, of Missouri, shares this $10 Meal Challenge Project inspired by the Iowa State Fair! During this past year, her sons were mesmerized by the Iowa State University Extension office’s $10 meal challenge offered to all 4-H members. This project is Beth’s reinterpretation of it. So, if you’re looking for an engaging project to combine food budgets, MyPlate and a family meal, be sure to take a look!

First Apartment: Living Room Budget Project

by K.Graybill • May 20, 2022 • 0 Comments

Many young people today think they are going to go out there and have their “dream” apartment (like they see on TV), complete with top of the line furnishings, etc. Realistically, most will find they will be grateful for any free or hand-me-down furnishings (although they don’t realize that now). I wanted students to create a “dream” living room where money was no object. Their furnishings were based on their personal style, using the web-based technology Polyvore Home and they had to keep a list of expenses. Then, they had to replicate the room on a reduced budget as closely as possible using online department stores, again keeping track of their expenses. Not only did this project end up being an eye-opener for them in terms of cost, but they learned they could have a similar look, spending much less money. Oh, and did I mention, they also had a lot of fun “decorating and shopping” for a period or two!

Fad Diets “Among Us”

by K.Graybill • October 1, 2021 • 0 Comments

Are your students obsessed with the video game “Among Us”? Mine are! So, I thought if I used a concept from the game in a lesson, it would pique their interest! Fad Diets “Among Us” does just that as students learn about “sus” claims that are touted by fad diets. The lesson continues as students learn how to spot fad diets and utilize what they’ve learned as they analyze a fad diet advertisement.

Lifestyle Creep Hyperdoc

by K.Graybill • August 6, 2021 • 0 Comments

Many people, including teens, suffer from this problem! The Lifestyle Creep Hyperdoc introduces students to the concept and explores not only what the signs and effects are, but also how it change a person’s life as well as how it can be prevented. It’s a great lead in to the importance of living within your means and budgeting!

Organic vs Non-Organic Foods

by K.Graybill • April 30, 2021 • 0 Comments

I don’t know about you, but I love teaching about topics that have two sides and sometimes a bit of controversy to them. Having read several articles about organic vs non-organic foods, I created this Organic vs Non-Organic Foods Dilemma where students had to research both sides of the argument and form a response that supported their position.

Festive Table Decor Project

by K.Graybill • December 18, 2020 • 0 Comments

Doing so much of my job virtually makes me crave working with my hands, creatively, in my down time (what little of it there is)! Not only do I get to work with my hands to make something creative, meaningful, useful and/or beautiful, but I get a much needed reprieve from screens…for which my eyes thank me! This “Festive Table Decor Project” is one that students can personalize to make whatever they want, around the theme of the assignment, using materials they have on hand. In addition, I want my students to feel connected to what they create and have a greater understanding of what’s involved in DIY projects! Read on to learn more and let your students release their pent up creativity!

Repurposing the Necktie

by K.Graybill • December 4, 2020 • 0 Comments

A while back, I read an article in the Wall Street Journal about old ties. What was once an everyday staple of many a man’s wardrobe may now be hanging dust collectors! Because more workplaces are moving to casual attire, the tie rarely surfaces on a day to day basis. So what does one do with a closet full of dormant ties? Afterall, how many does one man need? Enter the FACS classroom! Clever and creative FACS teachers, teaching any kind of sewing unit, would benefit from the donation as their students work at repurposing the necktie into another functional piece of fashion or art!

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