In this 9-week course, students will delve into essential personal finance topics, spanning the following units:

Unit 1: Money in Our Lives
-Reflect on personal money values and decision-making.
-Explore the basics of banking, saving, and budgeting.
-Prepare for high school and future financial planning.

Unit 2: Consumer Skills
-Learn to compare shops and make informed purchasing decisions.
-Understand the psychology behind brand strategies.
-Master receipt reading and the basics of a checking account.

Unit 3: Budgeting
-Analyze monthly household expenses.
-Create and adapt a budget.
-Understand gross pay, net pay, and pay stub analysis.

Unit 4: Credit
-Evaluate borrowing pros and cons.
-Create and adjust repayment plans.
-Differentiate between credit and debit cards.

Unit 5: Saving
-Recognize the importance of saving.
-Learn to "pay yourself first."
-Choose between savings and checking accounts.

Unit 6: Investing
-Understand saving vs. investing.
-Calculate compound interest.
-Explore the stock market and trends.

Unit 7: Protecting Yourself in a Digital Age
-Practice good digital citizenship.
-Learn to avoid identity theft.
-Create secure passwords.

Unit 8: Prepare for Success
-Identify college application essentials.
-Understand high school transcripts and resume writing.

Unit 9: Life After High School
-Analyze the value of a college education.
-Compare college costs and financial aid options.
-Explore alternatives to 4-year colleges and career exploration.