Literature-Based Lessons
While these books can help improve children's literacy skills, they can also introduce and reinforce economic and personal finance vocabulary and concepts in an easily-understandable way. Use the lesson plans below that accompany the noted children's books in a classroom or at home to help reinforce key concepts to help children better extend the impact of the stories.
Grades PK-5
Bunny Money
In this lesson, students listen to the story of Ruby and Max, two bunnies that go shopping and make spending decisions.
Sweet Potato Pie
This lesson highlights the resources needed for a business and key information entrepreneurs should consider before starting a business.
The Inventor's Secret: What Thomas Edison Told Henry Ford
In this lesson, students will listen to the story of two American innovators Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, and learn how curiosity and determination can lead to the innovation of ideas and products that can improve our quality of life.
Time for Cranberries
In this lesson, students will craft and perfect a definition of “entrepreneur” and make a list of key entrepreneurial characteristics.
Those Shoes
In this lesson, students listen to a story about a boy who wants a certain pair of shoes because his classmates have them.
Grades 6-8
Crenshaw
This lesson introduces students to the challenges faced by those who live in poverty due to homelessness, unemployment and/or low-income jobs.
Isabel's Car Wash
This lesson introduces the roles of entrepreneur and investor in the context of starting a business through the book, Isabel's Car Wash.
One Plastic Bag
In this lesson, students will learn about responsible consumption and how the choices we make when disposing of trash can impact the environment.
Grades 9-12
Twenty-two Cents: Muhammad Yunus and the Village Bank
In this lesson, students will explore an array of economic concepts related to entrepreneurship, banking, poverty and economic decision-making through the story of Muhammad Yunus, the founder of Grameen Bank.
