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PRESENTED BYMiddle Discussion Questionswww.ReadingMakesCents.comWANTS VS. NEEDSVS. ROBOTSBy Michael Rex

Lesson Plan By:Lynne F. Stoverstoverlf@jmu.eduWants vs. Needs vs. RobotsBy Michael RexPenguin Random House/2023STORY SYNOPSIS: Do you know the difference between a wantand a need? It can be a hard thing tounderstand, especially when you wantsomething so much that you feel like youhave to have it. But some things aren’tessential—like jellybean tacos and groovyboots. Other things are essential—like fueland feet to put the boots on. The robots inthis book are here to show you the differenceas they make trades to get some things theyreally want (hooray!) but give away somethings they need (oops!).

Lesson Plan By:Lynne F. Stoverstoverlf@jmu.eduReading Makes Cents 2023-2024Wants vs. Needs vs. RobotsDiscussion QuestionsMiddle School Discussion QuestionsThis picture book’s title revealed the major economic concepts that were featured.While it may seem to be a silly story, it actually contains a lot of other economicconcepts. Name at least five. [examples include: barter, trade, choices, opportunity cost,decision-making, goods, services, jobs, productive resources, costs & benefits] The robots bartered a good or service for another good or service. They did not usemoney or credit. Can you think of a time you bartered or traded for something youwanted? [Answers will vary.]Why was the robot willing to trade one of its eyes for the remote-controlled platypus?[The robot said it could see fine with just one eye.] Why? [It’s always good to have abackup! What if the toy breaks? A one-eyed robot looks weird. Can’t robots go to thescience lab and get another eye?] Would you be willing to trade one of your eyes? [Possible responses include: NEVER!Sure, if the price was right. Some people donate kidneys, maybe this would be a similarsituation.]What do you think are the needs humans must have to survive? [Most people agreethat humans need air, food, water, clothing, sleep, and shelter to survive.] 1.2.3.4.5.After reading the book to the students ask the following questions.Enrichment Question: After the robot trades all the things it needs for things it wants, the book’s author gives thereader an opportunity to give the robot a redo. Thus, returning its arms, legs, battery and oil.The author asks the reader a direct question, “Before we go on, here’s a question to thinkabout…Do you want to turn the page, or do you need to turn the page?” What do you thinkthe author is trying to do by asking this question? [The author is demonstrating an exampleof wants vs. needs.]