Description:

Learn about the various types of auctions and how to avoid auction fraud

Subject:

Social Science

Duration:

150 minutes

Grade Levels:

9-12

Standards:

23 Ill. Adm. Code 1.462 Uniform Annual Consumer Education Proficiency Test

Student Preparation for Annual Test

SOLVING PROBLEMS

Recognize and investigate problems; formulate and propose solutions supported by reason and evidence.

USING TECHNOLOGY

Use appropriate instruments, electronic equipment, computers and networks to access information, process ideas and communicate results.

ILS 15.B.4a Explain the costs and benefits of making consumer purchases through differing means (e.g., credit, cash).

Resources:

• On-line commentary covering:
• Learning About Internet Auctions
• Introduction to Auctions
• What You Need to Know Before you Get Online: Privacy Concerns
• Let the Bidding Begin: A Walk through the Auction Process
• Things to Know to Avoid Complications (even Fraud!) in the Auction Process
• What to do If Something Goes Wrong

On-line game to test knowledge

Consumer protection links:

City of Chicago Department of Consumer Service

American Institute of Certified Accountants

Better Business Bureau

Internet Fraud Complaint Center

National Fraud Information Center Internet Fraud Watch

Online Privacy Alliance

United States Customs Service

United States Postal Inspection Service

Objectives:

Students will be able to:

1)      Identify types of internet auctions,
2)      Understand the auction process,
3)      Identify on-line privacy issues,
4)      Identify types of auction fraud,
5)      Identify resources for victims of auction fraud

Instruction Methods:

1)      Teacher assisted on-line tutorial
2)      Internet research
3)      On-line quiz

Materials:

Individual student access to either (1) computer with internet access or (2) printed materials for auction fraud commentary

Anticipatory Set:

What are auctions and how do they operate?

Are there different types of auctions?

What types of fraud are possible in on-line auctions?

What do I need to know to protect myself from on-line fraud?

Lesson Sequence:

1)      The teacher will begin the lesson by introducing the concept of auctions and discussing the prevalence of on-line auctions.
2)      The teacher will then ask students to describe the type of fraud that may be associated with on-line auctions.
3)      The teacher will then ask students for ways in which they can protect themselves from on-line fraud.
4)      Teacher can continue with either an in-class review of the auction fraud commentary (on-line or printed materials) or assign reading for homework.
5)      Students will test their knowledge of auctions and auction fraud by playing the on-line game.

Closure/Evaluation:

Students will complete on-line quiz

Assessment:

Did students review auction fraud commentary?

Did students complete on-line quiz?