EQ - How would you change the way the U.S. Federal Government spends your tax dollars?

1. Overview: Benjamin Franklin once said, "In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes." Today we begin our exploration to assess the purpose, source, and impact of various taxes by looking at the U.S. Federal Budget. In our activity, you will gain perspective on how much money is withheld from your paycheck; you might be surprised. You will then have the chance to voice your opinion on how the government should spend your tax dollars. We will conclude with a reflection activity that will connect us with our future learning.
   
   
2. Activator: 
   
1. Survey Questions Voting Link
   
2. Discussion Prompt – How do you feel about the amount of money withheld for your paycheck?
   
   
3. Essential Question Overview - How would you change the way the U.S. Federal Government spends your tax dollars?
   
   
4. Exploration Activity - You're in charge!
1. Teacher-led demo
2. Description of purpose
   
5. Assessment - Flipgrid Reflection
   
   
1. What was the most surprising thing you learned today regarding how tax dollars are spent?
2. What two components of the budget are the most important to you? Why?
3. What two components of the budget are the least important to you? Why?
4. Describe how you would change the way the U.S. Federal Government spends its money.