Math in Shopping

You use math every time you go shopping. You check prices, count your money, and figure out your change. Math helps you find the best deals and stay on budget.

Prices and Change

Every item in a store has a price tag. When you buy something, you need to know if you have enough money. You subtract the price from the money you have.

If something costs $3.50 and you pay with a $5 bill, you get $1.50 back. Making change is subtraction in real life.

Sales and Discounts

Stores often have sales. A sign might say 50% off. That means the item costs half as much. If a toy costs $10 and it is 50% off, you pay only $5.

Comparing prices helps you save money. If one box of crackers costs $3 for 10 ounces and another costs $4 for 16 ounces, math helps you figure out which is a better deal.

Fun Facts

• The first cash register was invented in 1879 to keep track of sales using math.
• Sales tax is a percentage added to the price, so the total is always a little more than the tag says.
• Coupons are a fun way to practice subtraction while you save money.

Did You Know?

Some stores use prices that end in .99, like $4.99, because it looks cheaper than $5.00 even though it is only one penny less!