Our catalog of courses is complete. We will occasionally adjust the course listing to reflect the addition of new courses and the retirement of others.
“How will I use algebra in real life?” This course is the answer! While you earn an Algebra 2 credit, learn to apply mathematical ideas to everyday life topics such as credit, banking, insurance, the stock market, independent living, running a business, and more. Part 2 of 2.
Total classes: 28 (meets twice a week for 15 weeks)
Prerequisite: One year of High School Algebra, and a general familiarity with computers.
Suggested grade level: 10th to 12th grade
Suggested credit: 1 semester Math or Financial Algebra
Description
This yearlong course teaches practical financial skills in a Catholic context. Students will be able to use what they’ve learned both right away and throughout their lives. Not only will it help students to become good financial stewards, but it serves as an ideal class for 3rd or 4th year math students. The course can serve a practical purpose for accelerated math students, and as a core math class for students planning on non-science and engineering based careers after high school. Additionally, many school districts award “personal financial literacy” credit for this course. Students learn to apply Algebra 1 concepts to everyday personal finance situations, providing both financial training and math exercises to prepare for college placement exams. Financial Algebra encourages students to be actively involved in applying mathematical ideas to everyday life topics such as credit, banking insurance, the stock market, independent living, running a business, and more!
Outline
Unit 1 – Automobiles
Week 1: Buying and Selling a Car
Week 2: Insurance and Depreciation
Week 3: Driving, Safety, and Accident Prevention
Unit 2 – Employment
Week 4: Paycheck Calculations
Week 5: Benefits and Deductions
Unit 3 – Taxes
Week 6: Tax Tables, Worksheets, and Schedules
Week 7: Income Statements, 1040EZ and 1040A
Unit 4 – Independent Living
Week 8: Finding a Place to Live
Week 9: Mortgages
Unit 5 – Retirement
Week 10: Saving for Retirement
Week 11: Sources of Income and Investments
Unit 6 – Budgeting
Week 12: Utility Bills
Week 13: Charting and Cash Flow
Week 14: Simulation
Week 15: Final
Materials and Homework
Course Materials: access to either Google Sheets, Open Office, or Microsoft Excel Spreadsheets;
Textbook – Financial Algebra: Advanced Algebra with Financial Applications
ISBN-13: 9781285444857 or ISBN-10 128544485X (https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/128544485X/catholictreas-20) We suggest purchasing used, sites such as bookfinder.com may assist you in this process.
Homework: Assignments, unit quizzes, and applied unit projects will provide students with hands-on practice using the tools of finance. Daily practice is important to apply and master the concepts. A daily schedule will be provided to guide student learning. Students can expect to spend .5-2 hours a day 5 days per week on their assignments.
