Students discuss the importance of emergency savings and play a game to explore connections between saving, spending, and unexpected expenses.
Earn (Making money), Save and invest (Building emergency savings), Spend (Budgeting, Buying things)
English or language arts, Math, Social studies or history
High school (9-10), High school (11-12)
45-60 minutes
Big idea
Choosing to save money for unexpected events can help us avoid financial problems in the future.
Essential questions
- Why is it important to set money aside for emergencies?
- What are some unexpected events that could cost me money?
Objectives
- Reflect on choices about saving, spending, and earning money
- Explore how a financial emergency can impact savings
What students will do
- Play a game where they make financial choices and track the money they spend and earn.
- Reflect on the importance of having money saved for an emergency.
Download activity
Teacher guide
cfpb_building_block_activities_playing-saving-spending-game_guide.pdf
Student materials
cfpb_building_block_activities_playing-saving-spending-game_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.