Business & Politics · 4 Beginner · August 26, 2026
Back to School: Ways to Save Money

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Vocabulary
supplies /səˈplaɪz/ noun
things you need for a job or activity
We need school supplies like pencils and paper.
deal /diːl/ noun
a good price or special offer
The store has a good deal on notebooks this week.
save /seɪv/ verb
to use less money or spend less
I save money by buying things on sale.
free /friː/ adjective
no cost, you do not pay
The community center gives free pencils to students.
second-hand /ˈsekənd ˈhænd/ adjective
used before, not new
I bought a second-hand backpack for my son.
burden /ˈbɜrdən/ noun
something heavy or difficult to carry or do
Back-to-school costs are a big burden for families.
Article
School is starting soon. Parents need to buy many things. Pencils, notebooks, and bags cost money. There are ways to spend less.
Baby Banks Help
Baby banks give free things to families. They have clothes and school supplies. You can go there and get what you need. This saves money.
Supermarket Sales
Supermarkets sell school items on sale. Pencils and pens are cheap now. Paper costs less too. Check the store for good deals.
Buy What You Need
Make a list before you shop. Know what your child needs. Do not buy extra things. This helps you save.
Second-Hand Bags
Old bags and shoes are good too. You can find them online. They cost much less than new ones. Your child can use them.
Ask Friends
Talk to other parents. Maybe they have extra supplies. You can trade or share. This is free.
Plan Ahead
Start early. Do not buy everything at once. You can find better prices if you wait. Small shops and markets have deals too.
Discussion Questions
- Do you have children? What school supplies do they need?
- Where do you like to shop for school things? Why?
- What is one way you save money when you shop?
- Have you ever used second-hand items? Was it good?
- What is the most expensive thing for back to school?
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