Financial Literacy Curriculum Mapping: How to Create a Cross-Content Curriculum Map

This article will walk you through designing a curriculum map that aligns financial literacy concepts with Common Core standards in mathematics, making the material both academically rigorous and relevant to real-world financial situations.

Financial Literacy Curriculum Map

Instructions for Creating a Financial Literacy Curriculum Map

Step 1: Identify the State Financial Literacy Standard

While some states are still drafting financial literacy standards, if your state has Personal Finance state standards drafted, we encourage you to begin with your state's mandates.

Step 2: Review Common Core Standards for Alignment

Next, review the Common Core Standards for cross-content integration with financial literacy standards:

Math: Look for standards related to ratios, percentages, algebra, and data analysis, as they relate well to concepts like interest rates, budgeting, credit cards, and investment growth.

Step 3: Create Learning Objectives

Based on the identified financial literacy skills and aligned Common Core standards, develop specific learning objectives for each unit or lesson. Create a dual learning objective that includes both a financial literacy goal and a Common Core goal. For instance:

"Students will be able to create a personal budget (financial literacy) and calculate necessary expenses and income (Math 6.RP.A.3)."

Step 4: Design Engaging Activities

Design activities that meet both the financial literacy and Common Core standards. Some examples include:

Credit and Interest Calculation: Activities where students calculate the impact of interest rates on loans, aligning with mathematical standards on ratios and proportional relationships.

Using activities and templates your students are familiar with.

Step 5: Design the Curriculum Map

Be sure to format your lessons logically, building from foundational concepts (e.g., saving and budgeting) to more advanced topics (e.g., credit and investing). The map and calendar template can be found in Canva.

With a well-crafted curriculum map, you’ll provide students with a valuable foundation in financial literacy while reinforcing core academic skills, empowering them for academic and financial success.