Lesson Plan
Budgeting Basics Blueprint
Students will distinguish needs vs. wants, create a simple budget using a worksheet, and apply budgeting skills in a mock grocery shopping scenario.
Building functional money management skills empowers students with greater independence and confidence in real-life financial decisions, aligning with Tier 2 small-group support.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Materials Preparation
10 minutes
Step 1
Introduction & Objective Overview
5 minutes
Step 2
Needs vs. Wants Debate
10 minutes
Step 3
Hands-On Budget Creation
15 minutes
Step 4
Grocery Store Simulation
10 minutes
Step 5
Reflection & Wrap-Up
5 minutes

Slide Deck
Money Moves: Keys to Independence
Key Terms
Why Money Management Matters
Needs vs Wants Debate
Steps to Create a Budget
Sample Budget
Grocery Store Simulation
Using the Expense Tracker
Reflection Questions
Next Steps & Follow-Up

Activity


Worksheet


Discussion

