Needs and Wants
Aligned to C3.D2.Eco — C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards.
What this lesson teaches
A need is something we must have to live and stay healthy — food, clean water, clothes, and a place to live. A want is nice to have but we can live without — toys, candy, or a game. Sorting needs from wants helps us make smart choices.
Worked example
Look at an apple, water, a backpack, and a teddy bear. The apple and water are needs (your body needs food and water). The teddy bear is a want — fun, but you can live without it.
Practice questions
- Name two needs and two wants in your home.
- Is a warm coat in winter a need or a want? Why?
- If you had one dollar, would you buy food or a toy? Explain.
Watch the lesson
Every lesson comes with a video taught in English and Spanish — the same video the QR code in the printed workbook opens.
▶ Watch this lessonEn español
Necesidades y deseos
Una necesidad es algo que debemos tener para vivir y estar sanos: comida, agua limpia, ropa y un lugar donde vivir. Un deseo es algo agradable de tener, pero podemos vivir sin ello: juguetes, dulces o un videojuego. Distinguir las necesidades de los deseos nos ayuda a tomar decisiones inteligentes.
Ejemplo: Observa una manzana, agua, una mochila y un osito de peluche. La manzana y el agua son necesidades (tu cuerpo necesita alimento y agua). El osito de peluche es un deseo: es divertido, pero puedes vivir sin él.
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