People's Pie

People's Pie: A Budget Balancing Act

From taxes to spending, can you create (and balance) the budget for a country?

People's Pie is a challenging game that requires you to fund essential programs while maintaining a delicate balance. Your mission is to manage the nation's finances without setting tax rates too high or borrowing excessively. Keeping your residents happy and avoiding a burdensome national debt are key to your success. Are you ready for a slice of People’s Pie?

For English Language Learners:

This game provides additional support with Spanish translation, voiceover, and a comprehensive glossary to help you navigate the gameplay.

Teachers:

Visit the iCivics "teach" page to explore classroom resources tailored for People's Pie!

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze how federal tax and spending policies influence the national budget and national debt.
• Explain the role of corporate, income, and payroll taxes in supporting the economy as a function of the government.
• Describe various projects and services funded by federal taxes.
• Understand how federal departments request funding for discretionary projects within their department.

Game Features:

• Adjust taxes and retirement age over a three-year period.
• Evaluate a range of policies and funding requirements across the federal government.
• Assess policy proposals to decide on funding commitments.
• Review your proposed annual budget and make tough choices to achieve balance or a surplus.
• Manage public approval, as every decision you make impacts the citizens' satisfaction.

Are you prepared to take on the challenge of balancing the nation's budget? Dive into People's Pie and find out!