Financial Literacy as a 7th Grade Exploratory Class

As part of the Iowa Core (Common Core State Standards), teaching the 21st Century Skills is a requirement.  The 21st Century Skills include:  Technology Literacy, Heath Literacy, Employability Literacy, and Financial Literacy.  These skills are taught in a variety of classes throughout the middle school.

This year we had the opportunity to re-design the 7th grade Technology exploratory class that runs for 6 weeks.  We will devote this Technology class to the 21st Century Skill of Financial Literacy.  Mrs. Borchers, our Gifted and Talented teacher, will teach the exploratory class.  All 7th grade students will participate.

The following essential Concepts and/or Skills will be addressed:

1.  Learn the process of financial planning based on wants and needs;
2.  Create an effective spending plan;
3.  Recognize appropriate uses of credit;
4.  Evaluate risks to personal identity;
5.  Evaluate possible options for investing;
6.  Demonstrate ethical financial making skills.

We are excited to design a class on Financial Literacy, providing students experiences important to the 21st Century.  We know that students will enjoy the class and learn the importance of Financial Literacy as they become young adults.