Students read a handout to learn about opening a bank or credit union account and then simulate asking a bank or credit union representative questions to determine if the account is for them.
Save and invest (Banking options), Spend (Buying things, Paying bills)
CTE (Career and technical education), English or language arts, Social studies or history, World languages
High school (9-10), High school (11-12)
45-60 minutes
Big idea
A checking account can be a useful tool for managing finances.
Essential questions
- What is a checking account?
- How do you determine if a checking account is a good fit for your needs and your situation?
Objectives
- Understand basic information about checking accounts
- Use a checklist to help prepare to open a checking account and determine if the account is right for you
What students will do
- Read a text with basic information about checking accounts.
- Answer basic comprehension questions.
- Engage in a simulation activity about meeting with a bank or credit union representative to open an account at that institution.
- Reflect on how they might use a checking account in the future.
Download activity
Teacher guide
cfpb_building_block_activities_checking-account-basics_guide.pdf
Student materials
cfpb_building_block_activities_checking-account-basics_worksheet.pdf
Note: Please remember to consider your students’ accommodations and special needs to ensure that all students are able to participate in a meaningful way.
