Economic hygiene; The Easy Way

Lesson Plan (45 mins.)
Warm-Up: (10 mins.)

1. Share surprising statistics about how Americans waste billions on unused gym
   memberships, overdraft fees, and identity theft.
2. Invite students to share what they do as part of their morning routine, such as brushing
   their teeth, washing their face, eating breakfast, and getting dressed.
   Scan to watch episode:
3. Ask students to think about and discuss the ramifications of skipping an essential
   morning task like brushing their teeth. Mention potential outcomes like cavities and
   tooth extractions.
4. Conclude by explaining that just like daily personal hygiene routines are essential for our
   health, maintaining financial hygiene is crucial for our economic well-being. Mention that
   today’s lesson will cover important financial terms like budget, positive cash flow, and
   negative cash flow.
   Watch and Apply: (25 mins.)
5. Watch the video, Ca$h Cour$e: Managing Your Financial Hygiene.
6. Distribute the “Ca$h Cour$e: Managing Your Financial Hygiene Worksheet.” Allow
   students 10 minutes to complete the worksheet independently.
7. After the worksheet activity, go through the questions as a class. Open the floor for
   questions and areas where students need further clarification.
   Wrap-Up: (10 mins.)
8. Invite students to share any new insights they’ve gained about financial hygiene.
   Encourage them to elaborate on how these insights could help prevent negative financial
   outcomes.
9. Prompt students to consider what habits they will cultivate for ongoing financial health.
   Record these habits on the board as students share them.
10. Ask students what they can do to practice personal financial hygiene. List these on the
    board and have students discuss the consequences of neglecting or maintaining each
    action.
    Don’t have time for the full lesson? Quick Activity (10-15 mins.)
    Distribute the worksheet and allow students to complete it while they follow along with the
    video. Or, have students watch the video at home and use the worksheet as a quick quiz the
    next day in class.