Civics Today Citizenship, Economics, & You

Chapter 20: Personal Finance and Economics

Web Activity Lesson Plans

Introduction

In this chapter students learned that economics is the study of how people use limited resources to meet unlimited wants or needs. Consumers, businesses, and governments all must make economic decisions based on scarcity. To make wise choices consumers must understand the type of economy they have and stay informed. All consumers should know that they have consumer rights as well as legal rights. In this activity students will take a closer look at how consumers can protect their interests when shopping on the Internet.

Lesson Description

In this lesson students visit the Better Business Bureau's Online Shopping Tips Web site. Here they learn about the Better Business Bureau's recommendations and advice for safe online shopping. After browsing the site, students will answer several questions and then create an information brochure for online shoppers.

1. The learner will be able to enumerate tips for informed online shopping.
2. The learner will be able to describe what actions dissatisfied consumers may take.
3. The learner will be able to create an informative brochure.

1. You can check to see if the company is using SET or SSL technology, or look for icons such as a locked padlock or unbroken key that signify the use of security software.
2. Credit cards; federal law limits consumers' liability for unauthorized purchases.
3. You should keep printouts indicating the seller's name, address, and telephone number; describing the items you ordered; and providing the seller's legal terms. You should also keep emails of any relevant email messages.
4. You can contact the company's customer service department, and if you are still not satisfied, you can contact the BBB, the FTC's Consumer Complaint Form, or the state attorney general.
5. Students' brochures will vary.