Learning About The EconomyAt A Virtual Mall (NAPSA)—Parentsandteachers who wantto teach children about the economyand business just got access to a helpful resource. Anew Web site has been cre- ated that’s designed to introduce kids to key consumer and business concepts. Sponsored by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the site is set in a shopping mall andis aimed at young people under 12— a group that is reported to spend billions of dollars on goods and services every year. Thesite takes kids on an experiential journey that presents the Commission’s mission and its role in American commerce. “FTC.gov/YouAreHerelinks the important work of the FTC to the lives of children,” said FTC Chairman William Kovacic. “It teaches kids how to be more savvy consumers by demonstrating the ben- efits of competition, how advertising can influence buying decisions, and the rules and regulations that many businesspeople deal with. It’s a great tool for par- A new Web site has been created to help young people understand the economy and how competition and advertising work. marketing. Another game allows visitors to compare sales pitches from three pizza restaurants as it explains competition. A short film playing at the cinemaillustrates the history of the FTC. For parents and teachers, the site offers fact sheets that cover advertising, marketing and competition in moredetail, along with ents and teachers whoare trying ideas for related activities. in the marketplace.” use the site in classroom activities help visitors navigate a virtual government, social studies, his- to help kids understand their role On the site, animated guides mall and interact with shopkeepers and other consumers. Young people whovisit can design and print advertisements for a shoe store, uncover suspicious claims in an ad, and guesstheretail price of various candies based on their supply, demand and production costs. One game that has players match the features of various cell phones with certain audiences illustrates the principles of target Source: Federal Trade Commission (FTC) “We hope that teachers will that involve consumer economics, tory and languagearts,” chairman Kovacic said. “It takes a unique approach to both consumertips and the role of business and governmentin daily life.” The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop and avoid them. To learn more, visit the Web site at www.ftc.gov.
