Students use an online compound interest calculator to explore the value of saving money over time for future education goals.
Save and invest (Saving for college), Spend (Paying for college)
CTE (Career and technical education), Math, Social studies or history
High school (9-10), High school (11-12)
45-60 minutes
Big idea
The sooner you start saving for post-secondary education, the faster your money can grow from compound interest.
Essential questions
- What savings goal can I set to help pay for higher education?
- How can my savings grow over time?
Objectives
- Understand how time and compound interest can increase savings
- Understand the value of starting early to save for post-secondary education
What students will do
- Watch a video on compound interest.
- Identify reasons to start saving early for post-secondary education.
- Use an online calculator to understand how time and compound interest can increase savings.
Download activity
Teacher guide
cfpb_building_block_activities_saving-post-secondary-education_guide.pdf
Student materials
cfpb_building_block_activities_saving-post-secondary-education_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.
