Teacher Script: Life's Game Plan: Choices & Cash

Warm-Up & Introduction (10 minutes)

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 1: Life's Game Plan: Choices & Cash)

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone! Today, we're diving into a super important topic that directly impacts your future: 'Life's Game Plan: Choices & Cash.' This lesson is all about equipping you with the skills to make smart decisions and build strong financial plans. Think of it as getting the cheat codes for a successful and happy life."

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 2: What Big Choices Are You Facing?)

"Let's start by thinking about decisions. Every day, we make small choices, like what to eat for lunch. But then there are bigger ones. Take a moment to think about some significant decisions you've made recently, or perhaps choices you know you'll be facing in the next few years. These could be about high school classes, what to do after graduation, a part-time job, or even a big purchase."

"Who feels comfortable sharing a big decision they've made or are anticipating? Don't worry, there's no right or wrong answer, just a chance to reflect."

(Allow 2-3 students to share. Validate their responses.)

Decision-Making Framework (20 minutes)

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 3: Why It Matters: Your Future, Your Control)

"Those decisions you just mentioned? They're powerful. The choices you make now and in the near future will heavily influence the path your life takes. Learning to make good decisions and manage your money effectively isn't just about avoiding problems; it's about empowering yourselves to achieve your dreams, handle unexpected challenges with confidence, and build a secure, happy life. It's truly about taking charge of your own destiny."

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 4: How Do We Make Good Choices?)

"Sometimes, when faced with a huge decision, it can feel really overwhelming, right? Like there are too many options, or you don't know where to start. But what if there was a clear, step-by-step process – almost like a cheat sheet – to help you make those complex choices easier and more effective? Today, we're going to learn a simple decision-making framework."

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 5: Decision-Making Steps: A Framework)

"Here are six steps to guide you. Let's walk through them:

1. Define the Decision: This is crucial. What exactly is the choice you need to make? Be clear and specific.
2. Gather Information: What facts, knowledge, or advice do you need to make an informed choice? Research, ask questions, talk to people.
3. Brainstorm Options: Don't just stick to the obvious two! What are all the possible solutions or paths you could take?
4. Evaluate Options: Look at each option you brainstormed. What are the pros? What are the cons? How does each option align with your values or goals?
5. Make a Choice: Based on your evaluation, select the option you believe is the best path forward.
6. Reflect & Adjust: After you make the choice and experience the outcome, take time to reflect. How did it go? What did you learn? Would you do anything differently next time? This step helps you grow for future decisions."

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 6: Real-Life Decisions: Applying the Framework)

"Let's try a quick example. Imagine this scenario: 'Should I take a part-time job during the school year or focus solely on extracurricular activities like sports or clubs?'

• How would we Define the Decision?
• What kind of Information would we need to Gather?
• What Options could we Brainstorm beyond just 'yes' or 'no' to a job?
• What would be the pros and cons to Evaluate?

(Briefly discuss with the class, guiding them through the application of the framework to this example.)

Financial Basics (20 minutes)

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 7: Money Matters! Why Financial Planning is Key)

"Great job applying that framework! Now, let's connect decision-making to another huge part of life: money. Making smart life decisions often involves money, whether it's about education, career, or even just daily choices. Financial planning isn't just for adults; it helps you afford your dreams – like college, a car, travel – and handle unexpected emergencies without panic. It's your financial superpower, giving you security and freedom!"

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 8: Financial Foundations: Income & Expenses)

"Let's go over some basic terms. First, Income. What do you think income is?"

(Allow a few student responses.)

"Exactly! Income is simply the money you earn or receive. For many of you, that might be an allowance, gifts, or a paycheck from a part-time job."

"Now, what about Expenses?"

(Allow a few student responses.)

"Right! Expenses are the money you spend. Think about things like food, entertainment, transportation, your phone bill, or school supplies. It's everything that costs you money."

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 9: Financial Foundations: Saving & Budgeting)

"Two other key terms are Saving and Budgeting.

Saving is setting aside money for future goals. Why do people save? For college, a down payment on a car, a big trip, or even unexpected costs like a broken phone. It's having money ready when you need it."

"And Budgeting? It sounds intimidating, but it's just creating a simple plan for how you'll spend and save your money. A budget helps you see where your money goes, ensures you don't overspend, and helps you stay on track for your financial goals. It's about being in control."

Game of Life Scenarios Activity (25 minutes)

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 10: Activity Time! Game of Life Scenarios)

"Alright, it's time to put these skills into practice! I'm going to divide you into small groups. Each group will receive a set of 'Game of Life Scenarios.' For each scenario, you'll work together to:

• Use the decision-making framework we just learned.
• Consider the financial implications of each choice.
• Discuss and decide as a team on the best course of action, explaining your reasoning.

"I'll be circulating to help out and answer any questions. You have 25 minutes for this activity. Let's get into our groups!"

(Distribute the Game of Life Scenarios Activity. Circulate and facilitate group discussions, prompting them to use the framework and consider financial aspects.)

Individual Reflection & Application (10 minutes)

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 11: Reflect & Plan: Your Personal Pathway)

"Excellent work in your groups! Now, let's bring it back to your individual lives. I'm handing out the Life Choices & Financial Pathways Worksheet. This worksheet asks you to identify a personal decision you're facing or will face and start applying the framework. It also prompts you to think about your own financial goals.

"You have about 10 minutes to begin working on this individually. It's a chance to reflect on what we've learned and see how it applies to your personal pathway."

(Distribute the Life Choices & Financial Pathways Worksheet. Allow students to work quietly. Circulate to offer support.)

Cool Down & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)

(Display Life's Game Plan Slide Deck - Slide 12: Your Future, Your Power)

"Time is flying, and we're wrapping up! Remember this key message: you have the power to shape your life and financial future. By using a clear decision-making framework and understanding basic financial concepts like income, expenses, saving, and budgeting, you are building a strong foundation for success."

"To conclude, in one sentence or a short phrase, what's one key thing you'll take away from today's lesson? Feel free to share with the person next to you or quickly shout it out."

(Listen to a few student responses.)

"Fantastic! Keep practicing these skills, and remember, your future is in your hands. Thanks, everyone!"

Game of Life Scenarios Activity

Instructions: In your small groups, read each scenario carefully. For each scenario, discuss and answer the questions below using the decision-making framework we learned (Define, Gather Info, Brainstorm, Evaluate, Choose, Reflect) and considering financial implications. Be ready to share your group's decisions and reasoning with the class.

Scenario 1: Post-Graduation Crossroads

Your high school graduation is approaching. You have three main paths laid out, and you need to decide which one to pursue:

• Option A: Go to a 4-year university. This means taking out student loans for tuition and living expenses, but it could lead to a higher-paying career in the long run.
• Option B: Attend a local trade school. This program is shorter and less expensive, focusing on a specific skill like plumbing, electrical work, or graphic design. You could start earning sooner with less debt.
• Option C: Enter the workforce immediately. You have an offer for an entry-level job that pays minimum wage, but you would be earning money right away and avoid any debt from schooling.

Discussion Questions:

1. Define the Decision: What is the core decision your group needs to make in this scenario?
   
   
   
   
2. Gather Information: What information would you want to gather about each option (A, B, and C) before making a choice? (Think about costs, future earnings, time commitment, etc.)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Brainstorm Options: Are there any other creative options or combinations of these options that your group can think of?
   
   
   
   
4. Evaluate Options (Pros & Cons): Discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages (both life-related and financial) of each of the three main options.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Make a Choice: Which option would your group choose, and why? Justify your decision using the framework and financial considerations.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Scenario 2: The First Car Conundrum

You just got your driver's license and are excited about the freedom of having your own car. You have saved $2,000 from your part-time job, and your parents said they might contribute a little. You are looking at a few options:

• Option A: Buy a reliable used car. It costs $7,000. You'd need a small loan for the rest, plus money for insurance, gas, and maintenance.
• Option B: Save more and wait. You could continue saving for another year, delaying car ownership but potentially buying a better car outright or with a smaller loan.
• Option C: Rely on public transport/rides. This means no car expenses, but less flexibility and reliance on others for rides.

Discussion Questions:

1. Define the Decision: What is the primary decision your group is addressing here?
   
   
   
   
2. Gather Information: What specific financial information (e.g., loan interest rates, insurance quotes, gas prices, maintenance costs for used cars) would be crucial to collect?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Brainstorm Options: Can you think of any other ways to approach getting a car or managing transportation? (e.g., carpooling, negotiating with parents)
   
   
   
   
4. Evaluate Options (Pros & Cons): Analyze the life and financial pros and cons of each option.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Make a Choice: Which option does your group recommend, and what factors led to that decision?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Scenario 3: Unexpected Opportunity or Expense?

It's summer, and you have $500 saved up. Two things happen:

• Opportunity: A friend invites you on an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime trip abroad that costs $500. It's a chance to see the world and make incredible memories.
• Expense: Your laptop, essential for your upcoming school year and part-time job, suddenly breaks down and will cost $400 to repair or $700 for a new, basic replacement.

Discussion Questions:

1. Define the Decision: What is the core conflict you need to resolve?
   
   
   
   
2. Gather Information: What additional details might you need to consider before deciding? (e.g., alternative trip funding, laptop repair quotes, school resources)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Brainstorm Options: What are all the possible ways you could handle this situation? (Don't limit yourself to just one choice for the $500!)
   
   
   
   
4. Evaluate Options (Pros & Cons): What are the immediate and long-term consequences, both personal and financial, of choosing to repair/replace the laptop versus going on the trip?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Make a Choice: What would your group decide to do with the $500, and why? Explain your priorities.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Life Choices & Financial Pathways Worksheet

Name: ____________________________

Instructions: Use what you learned today to reflect on your own life and financial future. Answer the questions thoughtfully.

Part 1: My Personal Decision

Think about a significant personal decision you are currently facing or anticipate needing to make in the next 1-3 years (e.g., choosing a college major, deciding on a part-time job, saving for a specific item, joining a specific club, etc.).

1. Define Your Decision: Clearly state the decision you need to make.
   
   
   
   

2. Gather Information: What information do you need to collect to make an informed choice? List at least three specific things.

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3. Brainstorm Options: List at least three different possible paths or solutions for your decision.

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4. Evaluate (Pros & Cons): Choose two of your brainstormed options. For each, list at least two pros and two cons.

   Option 1: ____________________________

   • Pros:
     
     
     
   • Cons:
     
     
     

   Option 2: ____________________________

   • Pros:
     
     
     
   • Cons:
     
     
     

5. Tentative Choice: Based on your evaluation, which option are you leaning towards, and why?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 2: My Financial Pathway

Now let's think about your money goals.

1. Current Income & Expenses (Estimate):

   • Roughly how much money do you currently get (income) in a typical month? (e.g., allowance, job, gifts)
     
     
     
     
   • Roughly how much money do you currently spend (expenses) in a typical month? What are your biggest expenses?
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

2. Short-Term Financial Goal (Next 1-2 years): What is something you want to save money for in the near future? (e.g., new phone, concert tickets, driving lessons)
   
   
   
   

   • How much money do you think you need for this goal?
     
     
     
     
   • What steps could you take to save for this goal (e.g., adjust spending, earn more)?
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

3. Long-Term Financial Goal (Beyond 2 years): What is a bigger financial goal you have for your future? (e.g., college, a car, travel, starting a business)
   
   
   
   

   • Why is this goal important to you?
     
     
     
     
   • How might understanding income, expenses, saving, and budgeting help you achieve this long-term goal?