Lesson Plan
Budgeting Basics Lesson Plan
In this 60-minute lesson, students will learn core budgeting principles and create a mock college budget, applying expense tracking and savings strategies to plan for financial independence.
Developing budgeting skills is essential for responsible financial management in college and beyond. This lesson equips 11th graders with practical tools to track expenses, prioritize savings, and build long-term financial independence.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Review Materials and Setup
15 minutes
Step 1
Introduction & Objectives
10 minutes
Step 2
Budgeting Basics Presentation
15 minutes
Step 3
Group Activity: Budget Plan Creation
20 minutes
Step 4
Group Presentations and Peer Feedback
10 minutes
Step 5
Assessment & Wrap-Up
5 minutes

Slide Deck
Managing Your Money
Agenda
What Is Budgeting?
Income & Expenses
Fixed vs. Variable Expenses
Importance of Savings
Typical College Expenses
Tips for Tracking Expenses
Interactive Activity
Next Steps

Project Guide


Worksheet


Quiz
Budgeting Concepts Check
