Teacher's Game Script

Introduction & Game Overview (30 minutes)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 1)

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone! Today, we're going to dive into a really exciting and important lesson called Adulting: The Life Game. Have any of you heard the term 'adulting' before? What does it make you think of?"

"Exactly! 'Adulting' is all about learning and mastering the skills needed to live independently and take care of ourselves. Things like managing your own money, finding a place to live, buying groceries, and handling unexpected situations. Why do you think it's important to start thinking about these skills now, even before you're out on your own?"

"Those are great points. It's crucial because the sooner you start understanding these concepts, the better prepared and more confident you'll be when the time comes. This lesson is a safe space for you to learn, ask questions, and even make mistakes without real-world consequences."

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 2)

"As you can see, independent living involves a lot of different responsibilities. We'll be focusing on managing money, finding housing, buying food, and handling unexpected events. These are all practical skills you'll use every day as an adult."

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 3)

"So, how are we going to learn all this? We're going to play The Life Game! This is a simulation where you'll work in small groups to navigate different stages of adult life. You'll choose careers, find homes, budget for expenses, and react to real-life situations. You'll track all your financial decisions on your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet."

"Before we begin, please get into your assigned small groups. Once you're in your groups, I'll explain the first step."

Getting a Job & Income (60 minutes)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 4)

"Alright, groups, the first step in independent living for many is getting a job to earn an income. Your income is usually how you pay for everything in life. I'm going to give each group a set of Job Cards. Your task is to discuss within your group and choose one job for your group's 'adulting' scenario. Think about what appeals to you, what skills you might have, and how different jobs lead to different incomes."

(Distribute Job Cards to each group. Allow 10-15 minutes for discussion and selection.)

"Okay, has each group chosen a job? Great! Now, let's talk about what happens after you earn money."

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 5)

"Your salary is what we call your gross income. But, raise your hand if you know what happens before you actually get that money in your bank account?"

"That's right, taxes! Various taxes are deducted from your gross income. What's left after taxes is your net income, or your take-home pay. This is the money you actually have available to spend and save."

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 6)

"On your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet, you'll see a section for income. Write down your chosen job and its annual salary. Now, we're going to estimate taxes. For the purpose of our game, we'll use a simplified estimate of 25% for combined federal, state, and other deductions. So, calculate 25% of your annual salary, subtract it to find your net annual income, and then divide by 12 to get your monthly net income. This is your group's starting budget!"

(Circulate and assist groups with calculations. Emphasize the importance of accurate calculations for the game.)

Finding Housing & Fixed Expenses (90 minutes)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 7)

"Now that you have an income, you need a place to live! This is often the biggest expense for an independent adult. On your The Life Game Simulation Guide, you'll find a few housing options. Discuss within your group which option makes the most sense for your income level and lifestyle. Remember, you want to be able to afford your housing and still have money for other necessities. Record your monthly housing cost on your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet."

(Allow 15-20 minutes for housing selection and recording.)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 8)

"Beyond housing, there are 'fixed expenses' – costs that generally stay the same every month. These include things like utilities – electricity, water, internet – and potentially a car payment, insurance, or a phone bill. I'm going to give each group some Expense Cards related to fixed costs. Discuss and choose realistic monthly costs for these items, making sure they fit within your budget. Add these to your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet."

(Distribute Fixed Expense Cards. Allow 20-30 minutes for discussion and recording.)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 9)

"So, you know what to pay for, but how do you pay for it? In the real world, you might use checks, direct debit, online bill pay, or debit/credit cards. For our game, you'll simply be tracking these payments on your worksheet. However, it's good to understand the different methods. Has anyone seen a check before? Can you tell me what some of the important parts of a check are?"

"Excellent! While we won't be writing actual checks today, understanding how they work is a valuable skill."

Daily Living & Variable Expenses (60 minutes)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 10)

"Now we move to your everyday spending – variable expenses. These are costs that can change each month based on your choices. The biggest ones are usually groceries and transportation. I'm giving you more Expense Cards with different options for these categories. Discuss and decide how much you'll budget for food and how you'll get around. Will you drive, take public transport, or combine? Remember to consider how these choices impact your remaining budget."

(Distribute Variable Expense Cards. Allow 20-25 minutes for discussion and recording.)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 11)

"After all your needs are covered – job, housing, utilities, food, transport – what do you have left? This is your discretionary income, money for 'wants' rather than 'needs'. This is where you budget for fun, hobbies, entertainment, or dining out. How will your group use this money? Add any chosen discretionary expenses to your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet."

(Allow 10-15 minutes for discussion and recording.)

"Now, take a moment to look at your worksheet. Does your income cover all your expenses? Do you have money left over, or are you in the red? Discuss how your choices led to your current financial standing."

Life Events & Financial Adjustments (90 minutes)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 12)

"Life rarely goes exactly as planned, right? Sometimes wonderful things happen, like a bonus at work or an unexpected gift. But sometimes, challenging things pop up – a car repair, a medical bill, or even job loss. These unexpected events can significantly impact your finances. Get ready for some curveballs!"

"I'm going to give each group three Life Event Cards. Discuss how each event affects your budget. Do you have an emergency fund? Do you need to cut back on discretionary spending? Make the necessary adjustments on your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet."

(Distribute Life Event Cards. Allow 30-40 minutes for discussion, decision-making, and recording.)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 13)

"This brings us to a very important concept: savings, especially an emergency fund. An emergency fund is money set aside specifically for those unexpected costs. Why do you think having an emergency fund is so crucial?"

"Absolutely. It prevents you from going into debt or facing serious hardship when life throws a wrench in your plans. Beyond emergencies, saving helps you achieve future goals, like buying a house, going to college, or even retirement. Discuss within your group: did the life events make you think about savings differently? What might be a realistic saving goal each month?"

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 14)

"Let's consider a quick scenario together. Your group has $X left after all your bills. You want to save $Y for an emergency fund, but your friends just invited you on an expensive trip next month. How would your group discuss and decide what to do? What factors would you consider?"

"That discussion highlights the tough choices adults often face between immediate wants and long-term financial security. It's all about balancing needs, wants, and future goals."

Reflection & Debrief (30 minutes)

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 15)

"We've reached the end of our game! Let's take some time to reflect on your journey through independent living. In your groups, discuss these questions, and then we'll share as a whole class:

• What was the most challenging part of managing your budget or reacting to life events?
• What surprised you most about the cost of living or adult responsibilities?
• What is one new thing you learned today that you didn't know before?
• How do you think playing this game will help you in the future?"

(Allow groups 10-15 minutes to discuss. Then facilitate a whole-class debrief, inviting groups to share their reflections.)

"Thank you for sharing your insights. Independent living is complex, and you all did a fantastic job navigating these challenges."

(Display Adulting: The Life Game Slide Deck - Slide 16)

"Remember, independent living is a continuous journey. The skills you practiced today – budgeting, saving, making informed financial decisions – are ones you'll keep developing throughout your life. You've taken a huge step today in understanding what it takes, and you've got this!"

"Please ensure your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet is complete with all your decisions and adjustments. I'll be collecting these. I will also be assessing your group's participation and understanding using our Life Skills Assessment Rubric. Great job, everyone!"

The Life Game Simulation Guide

Welcome to "Adulting: The Life Game"! In this simulation, your group will navigate the exciting (and sometimes challenging!) world of independent living. You will make decisions about your career, housing, expenses, and learn to manage unexpected life events. The goal is to successfully budget your money and experience the realities of being an independent adult.

Game Setup

1. Groups: Work in your assigned small groups (3-4 students).
2. Materials: Each group will need:
   • One My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet per student.
   • A set of Job Cards.
   • A set of Expense Cards.
   • A set of Life Event Cards.
   • Pens/Pencils and scratch paper for calculations.

Game Phases & Rules

Follow along with your teacher and the slide deck as you progress through each phase.

Phase 1: Getting a Job (Linked to Job Cards)

• Objective: Secure your first source of income.
• Action: Your group will draw from the Job Cards pile. Discuss the options and collectively choose ONE job for your group. Consider the annual salary and the type of work.
• Record: On your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet, record your chosen job and its annual (gross) salary.
• Calculate Net Income: Your teacher will guide you in calculating your monthly net income (take-home pay) after an estimated tax deduction.

Phase 2: Finding Housing (Reference The Life Game Simulation Guide for options)

• Objective: Find a suitable place to live within your budget.

• Action: Review the housing options below. Discuss within your group and choose the option that best fits your budget and lifestyle. Record the monthly cost on your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet.

  Housing Options:

  • Small Apartment (Studio/1-Bedroom): Monthly Rent: $1,200 - $1,800 (Choose a specific amount or roll a die to determine)
  • Shared Apartment/House (with roommates): Monthly Rent: $800 - $1,200 per person (Choose a specific amount or roll a die)
  • Live with Family (Contribution): Monthly Cost: $300 - $600 (Choose a specific amount)

Phase 3: Fixed Expenses (Linked to Expense Cards)

• Objective: Account for your regular, recurring monthly bills.
• Action: Your teacher will provide you with Expense Cards for fixed costs. These are bills that usually stay the same each month. Discuss and choose realistic monthly amounts for the following categories, making sure they fit within your remaining budget:
  • Utilities: Electricity, Water, Internet, Gas
  • Transportation: Car Payment, Car Insurance, Public Transit Pass
  • Other Fixed Bills: Health Insurance, Phone Bill
• Record: Add all chosen fixed expenses to your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet.

Phase 4: Daily Living & Variable Expenses (Linked to Expense Cards)

• Objective: Budget for everyday necessities that can fluctuate.
• Action: Your teacher will provide more Expense Cards for variable costs. These are expenses that can change each month. Discuss and decide how much you will budget for:
  • Groceries: Food for home cooking.
  • Personal Care: Toiletries, haircuts, etc.
  • Discretionary Spending (Wants): Entertainment, dining out, hobbies, shopping.
• Record: Add all chosen variable expenses to your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet. Calculate your total expenses and see if you have money left over or if you are over budget.

Phase 5: Life Events & Financial Adjustments (Linked to Life Event Cards)

• Objective: React to unexpected situations and understand the importance of adaptability and savings.
• Action: Your group will draw several Life Event Cards. Each card will describe an unexpected situation – some positive (like a bonus), some negative (like an emergency repair). Discuss how each event impacts your finances. You might need to:
  • Adjust your budget.
  • Use money you've saved.
  • Make tough choices about cutting back on other expenses.
• Record: Document all financial changes due to life events on your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet.
• Discuss Savings: Talk about the importance of an emergency fund and consider setting a savings goal for your future financial stability.

Important Reminders:

• Teamwork: Work collaboratively with your group to make decisions.
• Budgeting: Always keep an eye on your My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet to ensure your expenses don't exceed your income.
• Realistic Choices: Try to make choices that seem realistic for the income you have.
• Learn & Reflect: The primary goal is to learn from your choices and understand the realities of independent living.

My Life Game Budget & Tracker Worksheet

Name: _________________________ Group: _________________________

Phase 1: Income & Job

1. Chosen Job: ________________________________________
2. Gross Annual Salary: $___________________________
3. Estimated Annual Taxes (25%): $___________________________
4. Net Annual Income: $___________________________
5. Monthly Net Income: $___________________________

Phase 2 & 3: Housing & Fixed Expenses

Monthly Net Income (from above): $___________________________

Total Fixed Expenses: $___________________________

Remaining Income after Fixed Expenses: $___________________________

Phase 4: Daily Living & Variable Expenses

Remaining Income (from above): $___________________________

Total Variable Expenses: $___________________________

Remaining Income after ALL Expenses (Budget Balance): $___________________________

Phase 5: Life Events & Adjustments

Starting Budget Balance (from above): $___________________________

Final Budget Balance after Life Events: $___________________________

Reflection

1. What was the most challenging financial decision your group had to make during The Life Game?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. What is one important lesson about independent living or money management that you learned from playing this game?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. How might you apply what you learned today to your future plans?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Life Skills Assessment Rubric: Adulting - The Life Game

Student Name(s): ________________________________________ Group: _________________________

Date: _________________________

This rubric assesses students' engagement, decision-making, and understanding of independent living concepts during "Adulting: The Life Game."

Total Score: _________ / 24

Teacher Comments:

Job Cards

(Print and cut these cards for students to choose from)

Card 1: Entry Level Tattoo Artist

Annual Gross Salary: $33,000

Job Description: Designing tattoo's and executing the design on a client.

Card 2: Entry Level Welder

Hourly Pay: $22.50

Annual (Based on 40h/week): $45,000

Job Description: Creating visual concepts using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers.

Card 3: Retail Store Manager

Annual Gross Salary: $48,000

Job Description: Overseeing daily operations of a retail store, managing staff, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Card 4: Electrician

Annual Gross Salary: $70,000

Job Description: Installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures.

Card 5: Entry-Level Office Assistant

Annual Gross Salary: $38,000

Job Description: Performing administrative tasks, organizing files, and supporting office operations.

Card 6: Software Developer

Annual Gross Salary: $75,000

Job Description: Designing, developing, and maintaining software applications.

Card 7: Nurse

Annual Gross Salary: $75,000

Job Description: Providing direct patient care, administering medication, and educating patients and families.

Card 8: Construction Worker

Annual Gross Salary: $50,000

Job Description: Performing physical tasks on construction sites, assisting with building and renovation projects.

Card 9: Fast Food Supervisor

Annual Gross Salary: $35,000

Job Description: Supervising staff, managing shifts, and ensuring smooth operation of a fast-food restaurant.

Card 10: Marketing Coordinator

Annual Gross Salary: $52,000

Job Description: Assisting with marketing campaigns, creating content, and managing social media.

Expense Cards

(Print and cut these cards for students to choose from)

Fixed Expenses (Choose ~4-6 based on your housing)

Card F1: Utilities Package (Basic)

Monthly Cost: $150 (Electricity, Water, Internet - Basic)
Description: Essential services for your home.

Card F2: Utilities Package (Standard)

Monthly Cost: $250 (Electricity, Water, Internet, Gas - Standard Usage)
Description: Essential services for your home with slightly more usage.

Card F3: Cell Phone Bill

Monthly Cost: $60
Description: Unlimited talk, text, and data.

Card F4: Health Insurance (Individual)

Monthly Cost: $300
Description: Basic health coverage (may be less if employer-sponsored, but for this game, assume individual purchase).

Card F5: Car Payment (Used Car)

Monthly Cost: $300
Description: Monthly payment for a reliable used car.

Card F6: Car Insurance (Basic)

Monthly Cost: $150
Description: Minimum required car insurance.

Card F7: Public Transportation Pass

Monthly Cost: $75
Description: Unlimited rides on city buses and trains.

Card F8: Student Loan Payment

Monthly Cost: $200
Description: Monthly payment for higher education loans.

Card F9: Entertainment Subscription

Monthly Cost: $20
Description: Streaming services (e.g., Netflix, Spotify).

Variable Expenses (Choose ~2-3 based on your lifestyle)

Card V1: Groceries (Budget)

Monthly Cost: $300
Description: Cooking most meals at home, choosing economical options.

Card V2: Groceries (Moderate)

Monthly Cost: $450
Description: A mix of home cooking and convenience, some organic options.

Card V3: Groceries (Generous)

Monthly Cost: $600
Description: Eating out occasionally, higher quality ingredients, more convenience foods.

Card V4: Gas for Car (Commuter)

Monthly Cost: $100
Description: Fuel for daily commute.

Card V5: Gas for Car (Frequent Driver)

Monthly Cost: $200
Description: Fuel for longer commutes or frequent driving.

Card V6: Dining Out / Takeout (Occasional)

Monthly Cost: $100
Description: A few meals out per month.

Card V7: Dining Out / Takeout (Frequent)

Monthly Cost: $250
Description: Eating out several times a week.

Card V8: Hobbies & Entertainment (Basic)

Monthly Cost: $50
Description: Minimal spending on leisure activities (e.g., library, park).

Card V9: Hobbies & Entertainment (Moderate)

Monthly Cost: $150
Description: Regular spending on activities (e.g., movies, concerts, gym membership).

Card V10: Personal Care & Shopping (Basic)

Monthly Cost: $70
Description: Essential toiletries, occasional clothing purchases.

Card V11: Personal Care & Shopping (Moderate)

Monthly Cost: $150
Description: Regular grooming, some new clothing items per month.

Life Event Cards

(Print and cut these cards for students to draw during Phase 5)

Card LE1: Car Trouble!

Impact: -$500 (Unexpected car repair)

Description: Your car broke down and needed a new part. This is an unexpected expense you must pay this month.

Card LE2: Work Bonus!

Impact: +$300 (Bonus added to your monthly income)

Description: You did an excellent job at work this month and received a surprise bonus! Add this to your budget.

Card LE3: Medical Emergency

Impact: -$200 (Out-of-pocket medical bill)

Description: You had a minor medical emergency and your insurance didn't cover everything. You owe an additional $200.

Card LE4: Rent Increase

Impact: -$50 (Monthly rent increases)

Description: Your landlord has informed you that your rent will increase by $50 starting next month. Adjust your fixed expenses.

Card LE5: Gift from Family

Impact: +$150 (Gift added to your monthly income)

Description: Your family sent you a thoughtful gift of money! Add this to your budget for the month.

Card LE6: Utility Bill Spike

Impact: -$75 (Higher than usual utility bill)

Description: You used more electricity/heating/cooling than usual this month. Your utility bill is $75 higher than expected.

Card LE7: Unexpected Appliance Repair

Impact: -$100 (Repair cost for a household appliance)

Description: Your refrigerator suddenly stopped working and needed a technician. You are responsible for a $100 repair fee.

Card LE8: Found a Deal!

Impact: +$50 (Savings on groceries/shopping)

Description: You found a great sale on groceries and saved an extra $50 this month! Add this back to your budget.

Card LE9: Job Promotion Offer

Impact: +$100/month (Increase in monthly net income)

Description: Congratulations! You've been offered a promotion that comes with a $1,200 annual raise. Adjust your monthly net income by $100.

Card LE10: Minor Car Accident

Impact: -$250 (Insurance deductible or minor repair cost)

Description: You were involved in a fender bender. Your insurance covers most of it, but you have a $250 deductible to pay.