Lesson
Exploring Post-Secondary Options
Summary
College isn't the only road that leads somewhere worthwhile. This lesson unpacks the vocabulary of post-secondary paths and equips students to use the College Scorecard so they can weigh trade schools, community colleges, and universities on real data instead of assumptions.
Bellringer: The Best Route
- Present the travel scenario and have students write one answer plus reasoning
- Cold-call a few students to share before transitioning to discussion
Instruction
- Walk through institution types (public, private, community college, trade school)
- Cover credential lengths and introduce the College Scorecard as a tool
Activity: College Prep & College Alternatives
- Students complete page 7-8 of the workbook, then take the College Alternatives pretest
- Launch the College Alternatives game and let students explore branching paths
Discussion: Is the Extra Cost Worth It?
- Run the two cost-comparison scenarios (4-year vs. 2+2, trade cert vs. degree)
- Have students physically vote and defend their choice before revealing the synthesis line
Wrap-Up & Assessment
- What is the main difference in funding and tuition between a Public and Private school?
- Name two key metrics you can research using the federal College Scorecard tool.
| Est. Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 5 min | Bellringer: The Best Route |
|
| 10 min | Instruction |
|
| 20 min | Activity: College Prep & College Alternatives |
|
| 8 min | Discussion: Is the Extra Cost Worth It? |
|
| 2 min | Wrap-Up & Assessment |
|
Lesson Prep
College Alternatives Pretest
Complete the "Know the Lingo" section of page 7.
College Alternatives
Students explore trade school, apprenticeships, boot camps, and other post-high-school options.
College and Careers Workbook
Complete page 7, the section called "Know the Lingo."
Class Presentation
Includes a 17-slide deck with teacher notes. Present from Banzai, download a PDF, or copy it to Google Slides.
Presentations, Ready to Go
- Built-in PresentationPresent full screen, straight from Banzai
- Copy to Google SlidesMake an editable copy for your class
- Download or PrintSave as a PDF or print
- Teacher NotesSlide-by-slide guidance, printable as one handout
Unit 3: Post-Secondary Pathways & Funding
Exploring Post-Secondary Options
College isn't the only road that leads somewhere worthwhile. This lesson unpacks the vocabulary of post-secondary paths and equips students to use the College Scorecard so they can weigh trade schools, community colleges, and universities on real data instead of assumptions.
Strategic Alternatives to College
The four-year degree isn't the only road to a good income—and often not the smartest one. Explore trade schools, apprenticeships, the 2+2 strategy, and going straight to work as legitimate paths to a financially secure future.
Cost of Attendance
College tuition is just the sticker price—the real bill runs far higher. This lesson breaks down the direct and indirect costs of attending college so students can plan for the true Cost of Attendance.
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