Entrepreneurship

Senior Buying Power Badge Activity


 

Big-Ticket Buying

Which large purchases might be in your future? Whether it’s a car, college, or an apartment, think about what you’ll need in a long-term payment plan. 


Activity Details

Time needed: 30–45 minutes

Materials needed:

  • Pens or pencils 
  • Ruled or plain paper 
  • A computer, tablet, or phone with internet access (optional)

Setup:

Learn about the long-term impact of making a big purchase that you’ll pay for over time. 

Activity:

At some point in the near or distant future, you may want to make a big purchase that will require long-term payments. It could be for a cell phone, car, house, or your education. Understanding the long-term impact of a big purchase can help you prepare to make all your payments. 

It’s important to be as informed as possible when purchasing something that requires a long financial commitment. The more information you have about what you get for what you spend over time will help you make the decision that works best for you. 

Create a chart to compare and contrast options for a big purchase you want. 

For example, perhaps you’re interested in a few cars. Compare at least ten key features, including cost and maintenance, for each car. Use websites and/or magazines to conduct your research. 

After you’ve created your chart, assess the long-term benefits of each car. Ask yourself:

  • How do I gain the most value over time?
  • Which purchase would fit best with my long-term financial goals
  • How can I create a budget that will help me make all payments on time? 

Be sure to share your chart with a friend or family member. Talk about which choice you would make and why. 

Reflection:

Think about these questions:

  • What’s the most unexpected thing you learned about preparing for a big purchase?
  • What benefits did you gain from comparing and contrasting options?
  • How will you use what you learned as you make plans for future purchases?
  • How can you share what you’ve learned about comparing costs and options with other girls?

Troop Leaders:  The instructions for all badge steps are available free of charge in your  Girl Scout Volunteer Toolkit.

Girl Scouts at Home activities have been adapted from existing Girl Scout programming and optimized for use at home during a period of social distancing.

Adapted from Step 1 of the Senior Buying Power badge. Purchase The Senior Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting to complete all requirements and earn the badge.

Made possible by a generous gift from Toyota Financial Services.