Designed to help youngsters with real-world learning, and with being a smart consumer, this book focuses on having students participate in decisions facing consumers every day. The book contends that this is the best way to help students think critically and solve problems. Activities in the book require students to make consumer decisions related to earning, saving, sharing, and spending money--along with decisions related to health, safety, and general well-being. The book's purpose is to provide teachers with an extensive collection of ideas and materials that will make the reading and language arts curriculum "real." The book is divided into the following parts: Skill Area Activities (reading, writing, and listening and speaking); Application Activities (restaurants, stores, and supermarkets; careers, jobs, and chores; entertainment and leisure time; holidays and special occasions; and projects); Suggestions for Using This Book (tips for teachers; and materials and resources). (NKA)