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Auction Teaches Economics

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 26, 2007

CARROLLWOOD - It was a scene evoking images of Sotheby's in London or New York - except that the prices were light years lower and the bidders a good bit shorter.

Last week, third-graders at Independent Day School - Corbett Campus gathered for their annual auction. The students frantically wiggled in their chairs and waved makeshift paddles to place bids.

The merchandise on the block was no priceless Monet or crown jewel. Instead, the kids bid on candlesticks, a slightly worn paperback, costume jewelry, fragrant soap and other items they hoped to use as presents for family members.

The money wasn't real. The lessons in economics, mathematics, and individual responsibility were. Third-grade teachers Ann Cashen, Tracey Price, Judy Sobel and Bettyann Pitti planned the auction to culminate students' efforts in earning classroom currency called "moola" throughout the first trimester.

"Our economics program is a real-life simulation of earning, saving and spending income," Sobel said. "It is a motivational system that rewards students for academic excellence and for being responsible third-grade citizens."

The school is located at 12015 Orange Grove Drive.

A staff report

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