“How will I use algebra in real life?” This course is the answer! While you earn a second-year high school algebra credit, learn to apply mathematical ideas to everyday life topics such as credit, banking, insurance, the stock market, independent living, running a business, and more.

How to get the most out of Financial Algebra: Part Two:

1. First, read the course details below along with the syllabus and welcome letter.

2. Purchase the suggested textbook.  Some of the assignments are completed using spreadsheet tools.  Excel or a free tool such as Google Sheets or Open Office can be used.

3. If you wish to also receive Algebra 2 credit for the course or complete the Algebra 2 problems so that you retain that skill, please also purchase the Saxon Algebra II book.

4. Prepare either an electronic or paper notebook to keep track of information in the video lectures.

5. Each class contains: up to two recordings, one or more lessons, and several math problems.

6. Most units culminate in a quiz and a bigger project/assessment, and the course culminates in a final project.  Rubrics are provided for all projects in a link below the assignment.

7. To begin the course, click on the "Recording" for topic 1, and watch Professor Morrow’s lecture for Class One. Complete the assignment “Math Problems for Lessons 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3.”

8. All math assignments and quizzes will be scored automatically.  Projects will require grading with the provided rubrics. Several assignments are demonstrated during the videos.

9. If you need to review, go back and watch the recording again and/or go over the PowerPoint.

10. Repeat until all 28 classes (15 weeks during the live course) are complete.

11. Once the course is completed to the parent's satisfaction, there is a Certificate of Completion at the end to be filled in for your records.

Special Notes: This course can count as Algebra 2 on a high school transcript by completing the extra exercises provided by Mrs. Breier. This is Part Two of a two-part course.

Total Classes: 14 recorded classes, plus pre-recorded bonus lessons.

Class Dates: Wednesdays, January 8 to April 23, 2025. (No class on March 5 & April 16)

Starting Time: 1:00 PM Eastern (12:00 PM Central; 11:00 AM Mountain; 10:00 AM Pacific)

Duration: 60 minutes per recorded live, interactive class. Pre-recorded lessons are 20-30 minutes.

Prerequisite: Financial Algebra: Personal Finance with Algebra, Part One

Suggested Grade Level: 10th to 12th grade

Suggested High School Credit: 1 full semester of Math, Financial Algebra, or Personal Finance

Instructor: Monica Breier

Course Description: This year-long course teaches practical financial skills in a Catholic context. Students will be able to use what they’ve learned both right away and throughout their lives. Not only will it help students to become good financial stewards, but it serves as an ideal class for 3rd or 4th year math students. The course has two levels based on post-secondary plans: 1) students working towards post-secondary careers that require basic algebra only will complete problems that emphasize applying basic algebra and some algebra 2 and geometry to financial situations; 2) students working towards post-secondary careers that require algebra 2 will complete level 1 problems and also learn and practice algebra 2 problems so that they will build the foundation to study trigonometry or pre-calculus the next year.  Because of the multiple level approach, the course can serve a practical purpose for accelerated math students, and as a core math class for students planning on non-science and engineering-based careers after high school.  Additionally, many school districts award “personal financial literacy” credit for this course. Students learn to apply Algebra 1 concepts to everyday personal finance situations, providing both financial training and math exercises to prepare for college placement exams. Financial Algebra encourages students to be actively involved in applying mathematical ideas to everyday life topics such as credit, banking, insurance, the stock market, independent living, running a business, and more! 

Course Outline:

Unit 1 - Automobiles

Week 1: Buying and Selling a Car

Week 2: Insurance and Depreciation

Week 3: Driving, Safety, and Accident Prevention

Unit 2 - Employment

Week 4: Paycheck Calculations

Week 5: Benefits and Deductions

Unit 3 - Taxes

Week 6: Tax Tables, Worksheets, and Schedules

Week 7: Income Statements, 1040EZ and 1040A

Unit 4 - Independent Living

Week 8: Finding a Place to Live

Week 9: Mortgages

Unit 5 - Retirement

Week 10: Saving for Retirement

Week 11: Sources of Income and Investments

Unit 6 - Budgeting

Week 12: Utility Bills

Week 13: Charting and Cash Flow

Week 14: Simulation and Final

Course Materials: access to either Google Sheets, Open Office, or Microsoft Excel Spreadsheets;

Textbook - Financial Algebra: Advanced Algebra with Financial Applications, ISBN-13: 9781285444857 or ISBN-10 128544485X (https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/128544485X/catholictreas-20) We suggest purchasing used; sites such as bookfinder.com may assist you in this process.

Homework: Assignments, unit quizzes, and applied unit projects will provide students with hands-on practice using the tools of finance. Daily practice is important to apply and master the concepts. A daily schedule will be provided to guide student learning. Students can expect to spend .5-2 hours a day, 5 days per week on their assignments.

Fee: For all 14 classes: $237 if you register on or before November 15. $257 if you register after Nov. 15. (Registration closes one week before the first day of class. After that date, registrations are not guaranteed. There is a $20 surcharge for late enrollments after the course is closed.)