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Differentiating fixed and variable expenses

Updated

Using real-world scenarios, students identify fixed and variable expenses and reflect on how they are similar and different.

Big idea

To manage your cash flow and maintain a budget, it’s helpful to understand different types of expenses.  

Essential questions

  • What are different types of expenses?
  • When might I encounter some of these expenses in my life?

Objectives

  • Understand what a fixed expense is
  • Understand what a variable expense is   

What students will do

  • Use the “Differentiating fixed and variable expenses” worksheet to identify fixed and variable expenses presented in real-world scenarios.
  • Reflect on the similarities and differences between the two types of expenses.

Download activity

Teacher guide

cfpb_building_block_activities_differentiating-fixed-variable-expenses_guide.pdf

Student materials

cfpb_building_block_activities_differentiating-fixed-variable-expenses_worksheet.pdf

Note: Please remember to consider your students’ accommodations and special needs to ensure that all students are able to participate in a meaningful way.

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