Introduce
Students discuss the question:
“Have you ever said ‘yes’ to something and later regretted it because you missed out on something better?”
Watch & Discuss
Watch the “Unavoidable Consequences” clip and then students write a definition of ‘opportunity cost’ in their own words (what you give up or forego by choosing to do something).
Facilitate a class discussion based on the following questions. This could be a mix of whole-class, small groups or think/pair/share responses:
- How do we measure the true ‘cost’ of our choices? How do we evaluate the consequences?
- Why do some decisions feel “worth it” in the moment – but not later?
- Have any of your choices ended up having an unexpected impact? What happened?
- In what ways does our culture downplay or distract us from the real cost of our habits or lifestyles?
Written Response
Students complete a journal entry using the prompt:
“What is one decision I could make more intentionally this week?”
Create
Students create a cost-benefit chart with a partner or in small groups around a common teen choice (e.g., social media use, gaming, overcommitment to work or sport, or buying trends etc.).