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Course Objectives:

The primary purpose of the class is to prepare students' algebra skills prior to taking Pre-calculus in the contexts of Financial Literacy/ Financial Wellness. Through the lenses of mathematics in conjunction with personal finance, the course is designed to help students expose real life applications (budget, loans, investments, retirement plans, etc) while learning how to use mathematics as a tool to unveil some essential daily finance knowledge, which reversely provides intrinsic motivations for learning mathematics.

Curriculum Approach:

For the purpose of serving as an alternative pathway to Pre-calculus and Intermediate Statistics, this course introduces basic concepts of personal finances while emphasizing the algebra skills that are the prerequisites for Pre-calculus such as basic arithmetic, variables, graphs, exponential and logarithmic rules, etc. Students will be learning budgeting, calculating loan interests, and formulating personal financial goals. These topics are rich in mathematical contents, easy to be implemented into each individual’s circumstance, and important aspects of financial wellness. The course’s components are various. Besides homework and exams, the assessment also includes two projects: a personal budget and a personal financial plan. In addition to lectures, two speakers, a staff from UWT financial aids office and the director of financial counseling from South Outreach in Tacoma, will be visiting the class.

Student Reflections on the Course:

• Instead of just learning math, it taught us about personal finance and how to really depend on yourself to make the right decisions and calculations. (course evaluation)

• This class was definitely intellectually stimulating because it required a lot of thought to apply rules and principles when answering questions. (course evaluation)

• This feels like a very realistic plan which I would not have known how to put together if it weren’t for this class, so I am very grateful! (final project)

• In order for me to achieve my goal I will have to work very hard and limit my spending and be financially dependable. (final project)

• If any of these life changes occur I will adjust my financial goals at that time. (final project)

• There will be many steps to follow in this journey, but I know with time and dedication, I will get there and I will succeed. (final project)

This course is offered in the Fall 2022 at University of Washington Tacoma.