Description
Help your students understand one of the most important real-world math skills they'll ever use — how credit card interest actually works!
This activity walks students through reading a real credit card statement, calculating monthly interest, and discovering why paying only the minimum payment barely puts a dent in their balance. Using a realistic scenario, students follow Jane Doe through three consecutive bills, then compare what happens when she pays $100 vs. $500 — and see the difference for themselves.
The included practice activity challenges students to manage two credit cards for Sammy Spender, each with different interest rates and minimum payment rules. Students must decide how to strategically allocate an extra $100 — and support their answer with math. This introduces the avalanche method of debt repayment in a concrete, accessible way.
Included:
- Student activity pages (guided + practice)
- Step-by-step hint page for students who need support getting started
- Fully worked answer key with teacher notes
No prep required — just print and teach!
Highlights
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Description
Help your students understand one of the most important real-world math skills they'll ever use — how credit card interest actually works!
This activity walks students through reading a real credit card statement, calculating monthly interest, and discovering why paying only the minimum payment barely puts a dent in their balance. Using a realistic scenario, students follow Jane Doe through three consecutive bills, then compare what happens when she pays $100 vs. $500 — and see the difference for themselves.
The included practice activity challenges students to manage two credit cards for Sammy Spender, each with different interest rates and minimum payment rules. Students must decide how to strategically allocate an extra $100 — and support their answer with math. This introduces the avalanche method of debt repayment in a concrete, accessible way.
Included:
- Student activity pages (guided + practice)
- Step-by-step hint page for students who need support getting started
- Fully worked answer key with teacher notes
No prep required — just print and teach!





