Students identify the benefit of tracking spending and reviewing past purchases. They also practice categorizing items as wants vs. needs and discover budgeting strategies like 50-30-20.

Students describe the reasons for maintaining a budget, identify different types of budgeting methods, and create a budget for prioritizing wants and needs.

Students help a character file his taxes electronically and learn how online tax preparation software is helpful, secure, and effective.

Students explore how to effectively use a checking account and monitor an account balance and spending habits. They also learn about common consumer scams and how to avoid them.

Students learn wise debt management practices and avoid expensive borrowing behaviors. They also explore savings options like savings accounts, money market, and Certificates of Deposit.

Students learn what a loan is and why it is used to finance purchases. They also compare and contrast the differences between secured and unsecured loans.

Students discover why higher education typically has a positive return on investment (ROI). They also differentiate the net cost of higher education from the "true cost."

Students analyze the advantages and disadvantages of various sources of funds for postsecondary education and training. They also learn the importance of submitting a FAFSA.

Students consider career paths, self-employment, education/training, and compensation/benefits as they relate to making career decisions.

Students explore the content and purpose of standard tax forms related to starting employment. They also learn the difference between gross, net, and taxable income.

Students learn about the need for a risk management strategy and how insurance plays a role. They also compare different types of insurance.