Dollar Bill Analysis Exploratory Lab Activity (Counterfeit Unit)

This introductory lab kicks off our Counterfeit Unit by putting enlarged replicas of real dollar bills in students hands and letting them analyze and explore all the facets that go into money that the average person overlooks. Students will explore the $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 enlarged replica bills and document various things about each.

For lab, I print enlarged bills double sided and laminate for longevity. Students analyze bills in lab groups to collaborate and share materials.

There is also a digital option for virtual learning to still explore the currency.

*2 versions of lab sheet included*

- 1 page version where students use open ended responses to identify details of the bills and conclusion

- 2 pager version with same options as 1 page version plus pictures to identify demolitions, presents, and identifying markings

Resource includes:

- PDF Student lab worksheet (2 versions)

- PDF of enlarged replica bills (all replicas are of the real bills)

- PDF answer key for non-opened ended portion of worksheet

- Google Docs version of Student lab worksheet *editable*

- Google Slides presentation of enlarged replica bills

Looking for more counterfeit unit resources?

How To Detect a Counterfeit Money

Create Your Own Counterfeit Bill

Counterfeit Bill Project Gallery Walk Reflection 

Catch Me If You Can Movie Questions

PG-13 Movie Permission Form FREEBIE