Introduction
Pre-algebra is useful in everyday life, especially when working with money, budgets, and planning events. In this WebQuest, you will work as part of an event planning team to organize a school event while staying within a budget. You will use pre-algebra skills like decimals, percentages, ratios, and equations to make smart financial decisions.
Task
Your class has been asked to help plan a school event with a budget of $1,000. Your group must decide how to spend the money on food, decorations, entertainment, and supplies while staying under budget.
- Research prices for event items
- Use math to calculate costs and discounts
- Compare different options
- Create a final event budget plan
- Present their choices to the class
Process
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Part 1: Review Pre-Algebra Skills
Practice:
- Adding and subtracting decimals
- Percentages and discounts
- Ratios and proportions
- Writing simple equations
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Part 2: Research Costs
Use the provided websites to find:
- Food prices
- Decoration costs
- Entertainment ideas
- Supply costs
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Record all prices in a budget chart.
Part 3: Calculate the Budget
Students must:
- Stay under the $1,000 budget
- Calculate sales tax and discounts
- Determine total cost
- Explain why they chose certain items
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Part 4: Create a Final Presentation
Choose one:
- Google Slides
- Canva poster
- Budget spreadsheet
- Short presentation
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Include:
- Total budget
- Item list
- Math calculations
- Explanation of choices
Each group member will have a role:
- Budget Manager – keeps track of spending
- Researcher – finds prices and information
- Calculator – completes math calculations
- Presenter – shares the group’s final plan
Evaluation
| Category | 4 Points | 3 Points | 2 Points | 1 Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Math Accuracy | All calculations correct | Few mistakes | Several mistakes | Incomplete |
| Budget Plan | Organized and realistic | Mostly organized | Some missing information | Incomplete |
| Teamwork | Excellent participation | Good participation | Uneven participation | Minimal effort |
| Presentation | Clear and creative | Mostly clear | Somewhat unclear | Difficult to understand |
Conclusion
This activity shows how pre-algebra can be used in real-life situations like budgeting and planning. Students will practice important math and teamwork skills while learning how to make responsible financial decisions.