This lesson teaches students to dive into the differences and functionalities of credit and debit cards to enhance their financial understanding. It highlights how debit cards help manage spending by using existing funds and preventing debt, while credit cards offer opportunities to build credit and earn rewards, provided they are managed well to avoid hefty debts. Students will learn about the security features that favor credit cards, especially useful during travels, and gather practical tips on selecting the right card according to their financial behavior and objectives. This knowledge is essential for anyone looking to make informed financial decisions and utilize their cards to the fullest advantage.

CONCEPTS

Use this video lesson on the topic of credit and debit cards. Learn basic related concepts of

• Budget Management
• Credit Usage
• Debt Avoidance
• Financial Security
• Credit and Debt
• Money Management
• Risk Management
• Consumer Rights

GRADE LEVEL

9-12th grades. High School. Adult Education.

TIME REQUIRED

30-45 Minutes. It may be necessary to adjust the lesson plan and allocate more or less time to certain topics, depending on the needs and interests of the students. More in-depth lesson plan below will be longer.

PROCEDURE

Hand out the worksheet below (see the GET LESSON button near the bottom of the page).

Show students the video and have and have them complete the worksheet.  Review the questions on the worksheet.  For a more in-depth lesson, complete the lesson plan below.

Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: Which is Right for You?

After watching the video, ask students to summarize the main points made in the video.

 

Lesson Plan: Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards

Objective: To understand the differences between credit and debit cards, their benefits, and drawbacks, and how to choose wisely based on personal financial situations.

Materials Needed:

• Video: “Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: Which is Right for You?”
• Projector or Smart Board for video playback
• Quiz on video content
• Whiteboard and markers
• Handouts for group activities

Lesson Duration: 45 minutes

Lesson Outline:

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

   • Brief overview of the importance of choosing the right card.
   • Introduction to the main concepts of debit and credit cards.

2. Video Viewing (10 minutes)

   • Play the video: “Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: Which is Right for You?”.

3. Discussion (10 minutes)

   • What are the key differences between debit and credit cards mentioned in the video?
   • Discuss the pros and cons of each type of card in groups.

   • Quiz (5 minutes)

     • Conduct a short quiz based on the video to reinforce key concepts.

4. Wrap-up and Reflection (5 minutes)

   • Discuss what students learned and how they might apply this knowledge in their own financial decisions.

Discussion Questions:

• How can using a debit card help you manage your budget?
• What are the risks of using a credit card irresponsibly?
• How does building good credit help with major financial decisions?
• Discuss the security features of credit and debit cards. Which do you think offers better protection?

Extension Activity:

• Create a personal budget and financial plan illustrating when to use a debit card and when to use a credit card.

Assessment: Students will be assessed based on their participation in discussions, the accuracy of their responses in the activity, and their scores on the quiz.

Lesson Resources

• Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: Which is Right for You? A Simple Guide for Beginners