Overview

Estimated Time: 1 Class Period (50 minutes)
Unit: College In Focus
Lesson: 2.7
Theme: College Costs 101

Students examine the many costs associated with attending college and explore strategies for making postsecondary education more affordable. Through collaborative research, students compare nearby colleges based on tuition, housing costs, and proximity while learning how factors such as commuting, scholarships, and financial aid influence the total cost of attendance. Students also complete a ScholarTrack financial literacy activity to reinforce their understanding of paying for college.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson students will:

Explain the difference between tuition and the total cost of attendance.
Compare colleges based on tuition, housing costs, and geographic proximity.
Identify strategies that can reduce the overall cost of attending college.
Complete the College Costs 101 ScholarTrack activity demonstrating an understanding of college affordability and financial aid.

Indiana Standards

PCC-3.1 – Explore a variety of postsecondary education and training opportunities.

PCC-3.2 – Identify factors to consider when selecting a postsecondary institution or training program.

PCC-3.3 – Compare postsecondary education and training options based on career goals.

PCC-3.4 – Evaluate postsecondary options using personal interests, career goals, and financial considerations.

Before You Begin:

Student Materials

Device with internet access
"Closest Colleges and Universities" sheet
"College Costs 101 Notes" sheet
ScholarTrack Overview sheet
Writing materials (pen or pencil)

Teacher Preparation

Print copies of the "Closest Colleges and Universities" sheet and "College Costs 101 Notes" sheet.
Prepare the college proximity challenge by reviewing the colleges listed on the student sheet and determining their order based on your school's location.
Verify student access to devices, the College Costs 101 video, and ScholarTrack.
Review the concepts of tuition, room and board, total cost of attendance, commuting, scholarships, and financial aid so you are prepared to guide class discussions.
Be prepared to assist students with completing the College Costs 101 ScholarTrack activity after viewing the instructional video.

Lesson Flow

Hook / Warm-Up (Closest Colleges Challenge)
Mini Lesson: Understanding College Costs
Researching Tuition and Housing Costs
College Costs 101 Video and ScholarTrack Activity
Reflection and Class Discussion

Student Work Products

Students will complete:

"Closest Colleges and Universities" sheet
"College Costs 101 Notes" sheet
Completed College Costs 101 ScholarTrack activity

These artifacts become part of each student's Portfolio in Unit 3.

External Resources

College Costs 101 instructional video
ScholarTrack
Official college and university websites

Teacher Tips

Help students understand that tuition is only one part of the total cost of attending college. Encourage them to consider additional expenses such as housing, meals, books, transportation, and personal expenses when comparing institutions. Emphasize that factors such as commuting from home, scholarships, grants, and financial aid can significantly reduce the overall cost of earning a college degree. Reinforce that making informed financial decisions is an important part of selecting a postsecondary pathway.

Portfolio Connection

At the conclusion of this lesson, students should have:

Completed the "Closest Colleges and Universities" sheet.
Completed the "College Costs 101 Notes" sheet.
Completed the College Costs 101 ScholarTrack activity.
Developed a stronger understanding of the factors that influence the total cost of attending college and strategies for making postsecondary education more affordable.

Lesson 2.7 - College Costs 101 Snapshot & Resources