Lesson Author

This lesson was developed by Mike Martin. At the time of development he was a Student Teacher in Mathematics and Computers at O'Farrell Community School in San Diego, CA.

Content Areas

This lesson is anchored in mathematics and involves P. E. (health), business education and driver education to lesser extent.

Organizing Theme

The concept behind this lesson to make students aware of the cost of owning and operating an automobile. The lesson covers initial costs, insurance costs, operating costs, and routine maintenance costs. The students also review data on accident statistics and causes for all drivers.

Implementation

The "Buying a Car" lesson is multipdisciplinary unit that is designed to take 1-2 days. It will taught in a computer lab with access to the world wide web. The class will be given during computer class.

Mathematics	Health	Business	Driver Education
Computing Interest paid Computing gas mileage cost Computing total operating costs Comparing accident data	Effects of alcohol on driving	Selecting appropriate car Selecting Insurance Company	Causes of Accident Driving tips

Student Products

For this lesson the students will complete a Buying A Car sheet. On this sheet the students will determine the annual operating costs for their vehicle. In addition, there are several thought provoking questions for the student to answer about driving, accidents and automobile insurance.

Thinking Skills Engaged

This lesson introduces or develops many concepts. During the "purchase" process they can see the effects of different interest rate on the total cost of buying the car of their dreams. During the operational cost section the concepts of comparative buying (insurance companies) is introduced and mathematical concepts are reviewed.