Course Description
Financial Algebra 1 is a practical mathematics course that develops foundational Algebra 1 skills through real-world financial applications. Students will learn how mathematics can be used to make informed decisions about money, careers, budgeting, banking, credit, saving, investing, taxes, and personal financial responsibility.
The course emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, mathematical modeling, and the ability to apply algebraic concepts to everyday situations.
Course Units
Unit 1: Foundations of Algebra
- Comparing prices
- Unit rates
- Percent increases and decreases
- Shopping decisions
- Estimating costs
Unit 2: Solving Equations and Inequalities
- Determining how much money is needed
- Finding unknown costs
- Budget limitations
- Savings goals
- Break-even situations
Unit 3: Percent, Proportion, and Consumer Mathematics
- Shopping discounts
- Restaurant bills
- Sales tax
- Employee commissions
- Comparing sale prices
Unit 4: Income and Employment
- Reading a paycheck
- Calculating earnings
- Understanding deductions
- Comparing job offers
- Calculating annual income
Unit 5: Budgeting and Financial Planning
- Creating a monthly budget
- Planning for major purchases
- Determining affordable expenses
- Analyzing spending habits
- Creating a personal savings plan
Major Project:
Students create a realistic monthly budget based on a selected career and income.
Unit 6: Banking and Savings
- Comparing bank accounts
- Calculating interest earned
- Understanding how money grows
- Creating savings goals
Unit 7: Credit and Debt
- Comparing credit card offers
- Understanding loan costs
- Calculating interest
- Evaluating borrowing decisions
- Understanding the long-term cost of debt
Unit 8: Linear Relationships and Financial Models
- Comparing phone plans
- Comparing transportation costs
- Modeling savings
- Calculating earnings
- Analyzing expenses
Unit 9: Taxes and Government Revenue
- Calculating sales tax
- Understanding paycheck deductions
- Estimating tax liability
- Comparing gross and net income
Unit 10: Investing and Financial Growth
- Savings accounts
- Certificates of deposit
- Stocks and bonds
- Retirement savings
- Long-term financial planning
Materials Needed
Students will be provided with the following supplies and should bring them daily:
- Pencil and eraser
- Notebook
- Graph paper
- Highlighters
- Chromebook or school device
Classroom Expectations
- Arrive on time & prepared
- Respect teacher and classmates
- Participate in activities, take notes & complete assignments
- Ask questions when you need help
- Take care of our class & materials, keep food & drinks outside
Grading Policy
|
Category
|
Percentage
|
|
Assignment/Classwork
|
30%
|
|
Notes/Participation
|
20%
|
|
Quizzes/Tests
|
20%
|
|
Projects
|
30%
|
Grades will be updated regularly through the school grading system.
Attendance
Regular attendance is important for success in Algebra 1. Students are responsible for making up missed assignments and notes after absences.
Parent/Guardian Communication
Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor student progress and contact the teacher with questions or concerns.
