In this unit understandings about personal financial literacy are developed. The learning progression is designed to develop critical understandings about informed, responsible financial decision-making.

     Students explore goods and services that have been produced and consumed in Maryland during different historical periods. Students identify examples of businesses and skills that have been handed down from generation to generation in the Maryland economy. Students examine how knowledge of goods and services produced in Maryland over time can be useful in making effective personal financial decisions. 

     Students develop their understanding of the impact of technology on production and consumption in Maryland. Students examine the role of technology in different market places before identifying types of fraud including identify theft.

     Students reason why it is important to keep certain types of information secure and private before determining how identify theft and fraud influence the use and development of technology. 

     Later, students describe and compare relationships among personal characteristics, education, skills, income, and career choices.

     Students explore a variety of careers and use this information to support the interdisciplinary Careers Present Future inquiry project.