Lesson
Checking vs. Savings Accounts
Summary
Most people pick a bank the way they pick a gas station—they use whichever's closest. This lesson unpacks the real differences between banks and credit unions so students can choose a financial partner that actually fits their life.
Bellringer: Where the Money Goes
- Read the $500 scenario and give students 1–2 minutes to decide where the money should go.
- Share out, then reveal the two-account split to preview checking vs. savings.
Instruction
- Define financial institutions and contrast bank vs. credit union ownership.
- Compare checking and savings accounts on liquidity and interest.
- Explain FDIC and NCUA deposit insurance and the $250K protection limit.
Discussion: Moving Money With Checks
- Discuss what a paper check is and why it still matters.
- Identify routing and account numbers, then unpack the birthday-check scenario to show how money actually moves.
Activity: Financial Services & Check Anatomy
- Assign workbook pages 2–3 and 12-13.
- Point out routing and account numbers on the sample check on page 12.
Wrap-Up & Assessment
- What is your relationship with a credit union vs. a bank?
- You want to link your mobile debit card to an online marketplace. Explain why you must connect this card to a checking account instead of a savings account.
| Est. Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 6 min | Bellringer: Where the Money Goes |
|
| 10 min | Instruction |
|
| 8 min | Discussion: Moving Money With Checks |
|
| 16 min | Activity: Financial Services & Check Anatomy |
|
| 5 min | Wrap-Up & Assessment |
|
Lesson Prep
Middle School Personal Finance Workbook
Assign workbook pages 2–3 and 12-13.
Class Presentation
Includes an 18-slide deck with teacher notes. Present from Banzai, download a PDF, or copy it to Google Slides.
Presentations, Ready to Go
- Built-in PresentationPresent full screen, straight from Banzai
- Copy to Google SlidesMake an editable copy for your class
- Download or PrintSave as a PDF or print
- Teacher NotesSlide-by-slide guidance, printable as one handout
Unit 5: Banking & Account Management
Checking vs. Savings Accounts
Most people pick a bank the way they pick a gas station—they use whichever's closest. This lesson unpacks the real differences between banks and credit unions so students can choose a financial partner that actually fits their life.
Understanding Accounts
Your bank app balance and your spending power aren't the same number. This lesson teaches middle schoolers to navigate digital dashboards, monthly statements, and transaction cards.
How CDs & Share Certificates Work
Locking your money away can actually pay you more than keeping it handy. This lesson explores how CDs and share certificates trade liquidity for higher interest, plus the difference between simple and compound growth.
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