Whether it's a number drawing or scratch-offs, Americans spend big money for the chance to become the lucky winner. 

Answer: About $113 billion

Questions:

• What do you think about the odds of winning the lottery? Does this differ from game to game?
• Do you consider a scratch-off ticket to be gambling? Why or why not?
• If a lottery game is won, how does the prize money compare to the money the winner is paid out? Why? 

Click here for the ready-to-go slides for this Question of the Day that you can use in your classroom.

Behind the numbers (NASPL):

"How much do North American lotteries sell?
During fiscal year 2023, U.S. lottery sales totaled over $113.3 billion.

What jurisdictions sold the most?
Florida led the U.S. (and North America) with traditional game sales of $9.8 billion in fiscal 2023, followed by California with sales of $9.2 billion.

What types of games do they offer?
Games vary by jurisdiction. Most offer instant or scratch-off tickets. Many offer lotto and/or numbers games. Some also offer keno or video lottery terminals. Raffles or passive games are less common. A few government lotteries also operate video lottery terminals, casinos and/or racinos in their jurisdictions. And a growing number offer various types of sports betting, iLottery and/or iGaming.

What do lottery revenues benefit?
Lottery proceeds benefit different programs in different jurisdictions. In many cases, lottery profits are combined with tax and other revenues in a government's general fund. In other cases lottery proceeds are dedicated to a wide range of causes, including education, economic development, the environment, programs for senior citizens and veterans, health care, sports facilities, capital construction projects, cultural activities, tax relief, and others."

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For more resources stay tuned for the new Mini-Unit: Gambling and Sports Betting being released this week!

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About the Author

Mason Butts

After graduating from UCLA with a Master's in Education, Mason spent 5 years as a science educator in a South Los Angeles public high school. He is committed to supporting the holistic growth of all students and empowering them to live a life of relational, academic, and financial success. Now settled in the Bay Area, Mason enjoys facilitating professional developments and partnering with educators as they prepare students for a bright financial future. When Mason is not building curriculum or planning a training, he can be found cycling, trying new foods, and exploring the outdoors.