Course Overview

This course is designed to equip high school students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to make informed financial decisions and manage their personal finances effectively. Students will develop an understanding of economic principles, the factors influencing personal financial decisions, and the various aspects of income, expenses, budgeting, credit, and consumer choices. Through real-world scenarios and practical exercises, students will learn to navigate the financial landscape and make responsible choices to achieve their financial goals.  Students will explain the economic way of thinking and the concept of opportunity cost and analyze how economic principles influence individual, household, business, and government choices.  They will explore concepts such as cost vs. benefits, thinking at the margin, incentives, trade, and future consequences.  Students will compare different sources of personal income, including earned income, profit income, interest income, dividend income, rental income, capital gains, and royalties, and analyze the impact of economic conditions and cost of living factors on income and purchasing power.  They will investigate the total cost, affordability, and payment options associated with postsecondary options, degrees, and credentials, and review the purpose and process of accessing state (CAFSA) and federal financial aid (FAFSA).  Students will analyze the impact of inflation and cost of living on consumer purchasing power and consider factors when selecting borrowing options and evaluating costs, payoffs, and tradeoffs.  They will design a sustainable household budget based on personal and career goals and compare the advantages and disadvantages of various types of credit.  By the end of this course, students will develop a solid foundation in economic principles, personal financial decision-making, budgeting, credit management, and consumer choices. They will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions and navigate the complex world of personal finance responsibly.