Financial literacy activities

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Exploring saving and spending game

Students play a game where they earn and spend money to learn how our choices affect how we’re able to save.

Topic

Earn (Making money), Save and invest (Choosing how to save), Protect (Managing risk), Spend (Buying things), Borrow (Getting loans)

Subject

English or language arts, Math, Social studies or history

Grade Level

Elementary school (2-3), Elementary school (4-5)

Duration

45-60 minutes

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Updated

Big idea

The choices we make about how we spend money can make it harder or easier to save.

Essential questions

  • How does spending affect savings?
  • How can small purchases add up over time?

Objectives

  • Understand how our spending choices can make it easier or harder to save money
  • Practice earning and spending money

What students will do

  • Discuss ways that spending choices can make it easier or harder to save money.
  • Play a game where they practice earning and spending money.

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Teacher guide

cfpb_building_block_activities_exploring-saving-spending-game_guide.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.

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