Inflation Busters

A game-based program designed for economics, business, and financial education students in grades 9 to 12, Secondary Cycle Two and CEGEP

Students will experience life as consumers in a time of inflation. They will be assigned one of six consumer profiles and must budget for and acquire certain goods and services in order to survive until the end of the game.

Students will see first-hand what happens when inflationary conditions make it difficult to predict prices from one round of the game to the next. As the goods become more expensive, students will look for ways to afford what they need. Throughout the game, the central bank’s inflation target will exert its influence, and students will be able to see the results of monetary policy on daily life.

Big idea

The economy and the Bank of Canada’s monetary policy matter to consumers because low and stable inflation allows them to plan for the present and the future.

Learning objectives

Students will:

1. Compare the life of a consumer in times of both high inflation and low, stable inflation.
2. Recognize the role of the Bank of Canada’s monetary policy in the financial choices and lives of consumers.
3. Evaluate the importance of the economy and inflation in their lives.

Curriculum links

Ontario:

• Economics
  • Grade 11: The Individual and the Economy
    • Political and Economic Systems
    • Financial Planning
    • Government Intervention
  • Grade 12: Analysing Current Economic Issues
    • The Role of Government in Redressing Imbalance
    • Monetary Policy
  • Grade 12: Making Personal Economic Choices
    • Financial Goals and Financial Planning
    • Understanding the Canadian Economy
  • Business Studies
    • Grade 9 or 10: Introduction to Business
      • Economic Basics

Quebec:

• Secondary V: Financial Education
  • Consuming Goods and Services

Duration

Approximately 90 minutes. We recommend booking a 30-to-45-minute Museum tour as well, to complete your visit.

Availability

May to September: Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 17:00, last booking at 15:00.

October to April: Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 to 17:00, last booking at 15:00.

All school programs are offered in English and French.

Cost

All school programs are offered free of charge.

Group size

Maximum 20 to 50 students per program.

Book your visit

or call 613‑782‑8914.

Before your visit

Introduce your class to inflation and the consumer price index with the article Price Check: Inflation in Canada.