14 TOOLS

Best Economics Websites and Apps for Students

For social studies, few topics are as essential, or as difficult to get a grip on, as economics. These games and sites help break down how the U.S. economy -- and its budgets -- work. There's a heavy emphasis on systems thinking, showing students that economics affects just about everything (for better and worse) from policy to people. On this list you'll find videos that break down the most difficult concepts, games that feature tough ethical decisions, and lessons that highlight how the economy is connected to poverty and social justice. 

BrainPOP Jr.

Original videos and activities a treasure trove for teachers and students

Bottom Line: A unique, video-driven learning platform with tons of topics and resources.

Grades: K–3
Price:
Paid

EconEdLink

Flexible, deep financial resource a starting point for all grades

Bottom Line: EconEdLink includes an up-to-date and comprehensive list of economics and finance topics, but it will take some browsing to find the right lessons for your classroom.

Grades: K–12
Price:
Free, Paid

Khan Academy

Flexible learning environment offers goal-oriented personalized pathways

Bottom Line: A robust resource for targeted, individualized instruction in most standardized subject areas.

Grades: 2–12
Price:
Free, Paid

Learning for Justice

Thought-provoking classroom resources support diversity education

Bottom Line: It's an invaluable teacher tool to help reduce prejudice and encourage tolerance in schools, as well as within society as a whole.

Grades: K–12
Price:
Free

BrainPOP

Clever animated hosts Tim and Moby masterfully tackle complex topics

Bottom Line: This extensive collection's videos and games break down ideas in a straightforward and thoughtful way.

Grades: 3–8
Price:
Free to try

People's Pie

Federal budget game's challenge delivers powerful message

Bottom Line: Federal budgeting -- and its unique ethical and mathematical balancing act -- fits game-based fiddling and strategizing well, but expect a challenge.

Grades: 4–12
Price:
Free

TED-Ed

Support kids' sense of wonder with outstanding short video lessons

Bottom Line: TED-Ed includes excellent, engaging videos and support for flipped-class lessons with an incredible community of thinkers and doers.

Grades: 3–12
Price:
Free

Biz Kid$

You can bet on business and finance being interesting for teens

Bottom Line: Biz Kid$ is a great introduction to financial literacy, with linked activities as well as frequently updated interactive video clips and a blog.

Grades: 6–12
Price:
Free

Zinn Education Project

Resources, lessons help teach a more inclusive version of U.S. history

Bottom Line: Free downloadable resources encourage critical thinking and active learning in search of a more accurate picture of American history.

Grades: 6–12
Price:
Free

Build-a-lot

Financial management made fun via real estate-themed building sim

Bottom Line: Fiscal responsibility, city planning, and budget management are taught in a casual and engaging way.

Grades: 7–12
Price:
Paid

Spent

Provocative, first-person look at poverty builds empathy

Bottom Line: It'll need some scaffolding, but for students ready for the subject matter it's a great -- if sobering -- way to illustrate to students the daily realities and struggles of poverty in America.

Grades: 7–12
Price:
Free

Stop Disasters!

Slick sim explores global natural disasters

Bottom Line: Few other browser-based sims better illustrate the potential of gaming for learning about serious issues in our world.

Grades: 7–12
Price:
Free

Democracy 3

Nuanced political sim about the balancing act of government

Bottom Line: This is a grown-up civics sim, full of tough choices, compelling cause and effect relationships, and controversial issues that will work best for older government students.

Grades: 9–12
Price:
Paid

We the Economy

Explore big questions about the economy with collection of short films

Bottom Line: Detailed films can help raise awareness about economic issues that are often ignored or misunderstood.

Grades: 9–12
Price:
Free

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