Home / Worksheets / Grade 2 / Social studies / Understanding Scarcity

Understanding Scarcity

A worksheet for second graders to learn about scarcity, needs, and wants.

Grade 2 Social studies EconomicsScarcity
Use This Worksheet

Includes

TextFill in the BlanksTrue / FalseShort AnswerMultiple Choice

Standards

C3.D2.Eco.1.K-2.OL.1

Topics

scarcityeconomicssocial studiesgrade 2needswants
7 sections · Free to use · Printable
← More Social studies worksheets for Grade 2

Understanding Scarcity

Name:

Date:

Score:

Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability.

What is Scarcity?

Scarcity means there is not enough of something for everyone who wants it. Because of scarcity, we have to make choices.

1. When there is not enough of something, we call it  .

2. Because of scarcity, we have to make  .

A need is something you must have to live, like food or water. A want is something you would like to have, but do not need to live, like a toy.

Decide if each statement is a need or a want. Circle T for True and F for False.

3. Food is a need.

T

True

F

False

4. A new video game is a need.

T

True

F

False

5. A warm coat in winter is a need.

T

True

F

False

6. Imagine you only have enough money for one thing. Would you buy food for dinner or a new toy? Explain why.

7. Which of these is an example of scarcity?

a

Everyone has enough water to drink.

b

There are not enough apples for everyone at the store.

c

You have many books to read.

d

Your friend shares their toys with you.