THINGS WORTH KNOWING · MONEY
Free for everyoneSame Thing. Different Deal.
Does a bigger pack mean a better deal? Compare three fictional pencil packs, calculate their cost per pencil and decide which fits a three-dollar budget when only four pencils are needed.
Beginner knowledge · Grown-up guidance included
Print, think and try together.
Free PDF · No sign-in needed.
Download activity + grown-up guide · 2 pagesThe learner page is followed by its answer and grown-up guide. Page numbers match the complete collection.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
What you need
A pencil; counters are optional. Use cents and adult help if division with dollars is unfamiliar.
No prior lesson is required. Adjust reading and writing support to the learner; pointing, speaking and drawing all count.
A PRACTICAL LIFE SKILL
What this builds
Compare unit prices while distinguishing the best price per item from the smallest affordable purchase.
Price comparisons become more useful when they include how much you need and what you can spend today.
How to use the worksheet
Predict which pack has the lowest cost per pencil.
Calculate each unit price, then identify the tie.
Choose an affordable pack and explain why more pencils may not help.
Support for parents and teachers
Work in cents or use counters. The products and prices are fictional; no shopping or purchase is required.
The second PDF page contains answers, reasoning, an optional real-world mission and a question for the grown-up. Keep it separate while the learner thinks.
Check the understanding
Ask “Which packs tie per pencil, and which costs least today?” Look for two different comparisons.
Invite a self-check: “I can explain it,” “I want another practice,” or “I need help.” The conversation matters more than a finished sheet.
An optional next step
With an adult, compare two packages of the same household item without buying them.
Use permission and adult support for real-world practice. The paper activity stands on its own.
Further reading for the grown-up
Money as You Grow. The worksheet’s scenarios are original Sage Dad teaching examples.
Keep exploring practical skills
- The Five-Coin Choice — Money Choices Worksheet for Ages 4–6
- Find the Problem First — Troubleshooting Worksheet for Ages 7–9
- Half a Recipe, Whole Snack — Halving a Recipe Worksheet for Ages 7–9