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Beginner's Guide to Financial Literacy: Everything You Need to Know

We use relatable concepts, analogies, humor, and modern pop culture (from memes to music) to create an easy-to-understand journey through complex financial topics, from credit to budgeting to investment.
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What's included

10 pre-recorded lessons
10 weeks
of teacher support
1 year access
to the content
Homework
1 hour per week. Every lesson will have some practice assignments and/or projects the student can try if (s)he wishes. An answer key will be included for guidance.
Certificate of Completion
This is a move-at-your-own-pace course. The assignments are for practice and are not graded. While there is limited teacher involvement, if a student has any questions or is confused about any of the topics, they are free to contact the listed instructor for additional guidance.
Grading
Given the subject matter, there is no viable grade we could offer. However, we can mark whether the course has been completed in full.

Class Experience

US Grade 9 - 12
Beginner - Intermediate Level
The Problem

Imagine if there was information that could greatly impact your life, but you were never given the opportunity to learn it. How would you feel? Likely cheated..., upset..., frustrated..., and rightfully so. For many, this is the reality of financial literacy—the concepts behind how wealth and investment work. The sad truth is, most people never learn how to manage their money and build their wealth. The average school doesn't teach it, and schools that do usually gloss over the subject as a secondary, "throwaway" class. The great irony is that the keys to financial empowerment are within everyone’s reach, but because very few people recognize this, they remain locked out indefinitely.

Perhaps You're Here For a Reason

No one ends up here by mistake. You’re here because you've recognized this sort of knowledge is important. This realization sets you apart. It shows your determination to empower yourself with practical knowledge and to transform the way you interact with your finances. You understand the world is a game and you’re looking for a course that can explain how that game works. That's where we come in. Our course is unique in its ability to benefit people through practical knowledge, providing valuable insights and real-world skills for all students.

Introducing a New Way to Learn About Finances—Simple, Relatable, Effective

We believe financial education shouldn't be a maze of jargon and overly complicated theories. Our approach is different. Through relatable examples, simple language, and a conversational tone, we break down the barriers to learning. We're here to guide students from confusion to confidence, from questions to clarity. We're not here to bury anyone in an already boring topic. We are here to invigorate people and equip them with an education that can truly change their lives.

A Comprehensive Journey Through the World of Investment

Whether our students are starting from scratch or looking to deepen their understanding of money matters, they will graduate from this course with an understanding that few people ever have—they will truly be financially literate. Graduates will comprehend how money works as a tool and how they can use that tool effectively and strategically.

What topics will you cover?

In this course alone, you will learn all of the following and more:

Banking and Credit: We start with the basics, teaching how banking and credit work. We explore different types of bank accounts, how credit scores are calculated, the advantages and disadvantages of using credit cards, and the importance of maintaining good credit. We'll also cover topics like how to use credit wisely, and how to build a strong financial foundation.

Personal Finance: Here we discuss topics like Setting SMART Goals, Building Emergency Funds, Identifying Various Approaches to Budgeting, Basic Investment Options, Debt Management, Sensible Spending vs. Frivolous Spending, APY vs. APR (the angel and the demon), and Retirement Planning.

Standard Investments: From there, we delve into the nitty-gritty of investment. These are the concepts that most people never learn. We discuss everything and anything related to stocks, bonds, investment funds, and real estate investment. This includes (but is not limited to) market capitalization; volatility; commodities; brokerage accounts; the difference between market orders, limit orders, and stop orders; dividends; stocks vs. bonds, investing vs. gambling; diversification; why companies sell stock; how bull markets and bear markets differ; derivatives; options vs. futures; short selling; bankruptcy and how it affects investment; preferred vs. common shares; different classes of stock; hostile takeovers; comparing NYSE, NASDAQ, and OTC Markets; the SEC; insider trading, penny stocks, the connection between inflation and investment; investment funds; how mutual funds, hedge funds, and index funds all differ; types of mutual funds; different investment styles; fundamental vs technical analysis; how to use style boxes; ETFs; using leverage; buying 'on margin'; how to find worthwhile companies to invest in; the many ways property can be profitable; what to look for when buying real estate; the methods of ensuring you pick something that will build value, different property types; how to evaluate an opportunity; and all around wealth building concepts related to these sorts of investment options.

Newer Investments: Then, we explore some of the newer, “digital age" options, focusing on blockchain investments. Here we learn how cryptocurrency differs from traditional currency; explain the meaning, purpose, and application of blockchain technology; and discuss consensus mechanisms; speculative investment; the difference between 'true value' and 'perceived value'; how to guarantee authenticity, what exactly NFTs are; the dangers involved with modern investments; how NFTs compare to art; and arguments for and against modern investment options.

Entrepreneurial Planning: Finally, this course empowers individuals to invest in their ideas and transform them into viable ventures. We start by exploring the fundamentals of business plan writing, guiding students through each critical component to ensure their ideas are well-structured and feasible. Complementing this skill, we teach the art of crafting an impactful elevator pitch that captures attention and effectively communicates their vision. Furthermore, we delve into the techniques of SWOT and MOST analyses, powerful tools that help students think logically and strategically about any project or goal they wish to pursue. By mastering these skills, students will be equipped to develop and present their business concepts with confidence and clarity, setting them on the path to entrepreneurial success.


How is your class structured?

Our class is designed to be engaging and comprehensive. We start with foundational knowledge and progressively build on it, ensuring that students have a solid understanding before moving on to more complex topics. The course is divided into modules, each focusing on a specific area of financial literacy, from the basics of banking to advanced investment strategies. 

How will you teach?

Our teaching methodology is designed to be engaging and effective. We use a variety of teaching methods including:
*A variety of text-types to appeal to various learning styles.
*Interactive activities and quizzes to reinforce learning.
*Real-world case studies to show practical application of financial principles.
*Relatable examples to illustrate complex concepts.
*Simple language to ensure clarity and understanding.
*Conversational tone to make learning more enjoyable.

What's your teaching style?

Our teaching style is student-centered and focused on empowerment. We believe in making learning enjoyable and accessible. We focus on teaching complexity through relatability and simplicity, opting for clear, straightforward explanations accompanied by compatible illustrations. Our goal is for students to develop long-lasting learning that will help them throughout life.

Wealth Isn't Just About Having Money; It's Knowing How to Make Money Work for You

By the end of these classes, students won't just learn about money and investment; they'll understand how to make informed decisions, navigate financial markets with more confidence, and unlock the potential of their personal finances. This course is your gateway to understanding how money works, empowering people to build a foundation of financial wisdom that can lead to lifelong prosperity. 

This sort of information isn’t just priceless; as you'll soon see, it can also be incredibly profitable.
Learning Goals
Understand the purpose and benefits of different types of bank accounts, such as savings, checking, and money market accounts.
Learn how banks operate and how they make a profit.
learning goal

Syllabus

3 Units
10 Lessons
over 10 Weeks
Unit 1: Financial Mastery: Banking, Credit, and Personal Finance Explained
Lesson 1:
Gimme Your Money: An Introduction to Banking and Credit Scores
 Embark on an exciting journey into the world of banking and credit in this illuminating lesson! Explore the inner workings of banks and the different types of bank accounts they offer, including checking, savings, money market, and CD accounts.

Learn about the importance of credit and how credit scores are calculated. Discover practical tips for managing your credit wisely and improving your credit score. By the end of this lesson, you'll have a solid understanding of banking and credit scores. 
Lesson 2:
A Card is Born: An Introduction to Credit Cards
 Delve into the essentials of credit card ownership, from understanding how credit cards work to exploring the different types available.

Learn about the benefits and potential pitfalls of credit cards, as well as strategies for using them responsibly. Gain insights into building and maintaining a healthy credit history through smart credit card management.

This class provides valuable knowledge and practical tips to help you navigate the world of credit cards with confidence. 
Lesson 3:
The Good, the Bad, and The Wealthy: An Introduction to Personal Finance
 Take off on a transformative journey to financial empowerment with our comprehensive class on personal finance! Explore the fundamental principles of personal finance, from budgeting and setting SMART Goals to investing and retirement planning.

This class explores the impact of your daily personal decisions and provides practical guidance on how to develop smart money habits (and avoid financial pitfalls). 
Lesson 4:
Rebel Without a Dime: An Introduction to Investment
 Here we welcome you to the investment landscape by exploring 8 common investment options! Discover a diverse array of investment opportunities, from traditional choices like stocks and bonds to intriguing options like real estate, art investment, and lending.

This class serves as a foundation for upcoming courses where we will delve into the fundamentals of how many of these investment options work. 

Other Details

Parental Guidance
While our course content is designed to be educational and engaging, we recognize that everyone has unique sensitivities. If there are any concerns or reservations, we encourage parents to participate in the class alongside their children for a more comfortable learning experience.
Pre-Requisites
No previous knowledge is required.
Supply List
All necessary materials for the class will be provided.
Joined March, 2024
New on Outschool
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
The instructor holds a professional teaching license (CPT), has an advanced degree in Education (MSEd), and is also certified through the National Financial Educators Council (CFEI).

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$15

weekly or $150 for all content
10 pre-recorded lessons
10 weeks of teacher support
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1 year of access to the content

Completed by 1 learner
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Ages: 16-18

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