Contents
Introduction
3
Math for Financial Literacy is written to help students form connections between mathematical
concepts and real-world fi nancial situations. It is important for students to become fi nancially capable
and understand topics such as making money, spending money, and saving money. The connections
students form as they move through the text will help them become aware of the importance of
math in becoming fi nancially capable. Math for Financial Literacy prepares students to be competent
consumers and positive contributors to the economy.
The text is presented in four units. Unit 1 focuses on how people earn money and the manner in
which they are paid. Unit 2 delves into topics including banking, payment methods, and budgeting.
Unit 3 explores obtaining and responsibly using credit, avoiding the pitfalls of debt, and using informed
decision making when buying. Unit 4 provides insight into building and protecting wealth. The text
culminates with a capstone Stages of Life Project. The project provides an opportunity for students to
apply what they have learned in the text to their own day-to-day-activities. This experience will help
them focus on how their needs and wants will change over the course of their lives. Throughout the
text, students are asked to apply strategies and formulas to real-world problems. This will help them
develop the fi nancial literacy and analytical skills required in today’s economy.
About the Authors
Todd Knowlton is the cofounder and president of Smooth Fusion, Inc., a digital marketing
technology fi rm. Todd’s career has been a journey in technology and education. He pioneered early
successes in online education, worked as an educational technology consultant, and served on
Microsoft’s Academic Advisory Council. Since 1994, Todd has authored or coauthored over 20 books
that teach computer programming. He has presented technology education workshops and seminars,
including presentations for the Texas Computer Education Association and the International Society for
Technology in Education. Currently, Todd serves on the Texas Tech University College of Engineering
Dean’s Council. He holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Texas Tech University.
Paul Gray Jr., EdD, is the chief curriculum offi cer for Cosenza & Associates, a consulting fi rm
specializing in mathematics and science. During his teaching career, Paul taught mathematics and
science to junior and senior high school students in Chickasha, Oklahoma. Recently, he held the
position of director of mathematics and science for Pearland ISD. Paul serves on the boards of directors
for several statewide organizations, including the Texas Council of Teachers of Mathematics (TCTM),
Texas Association of Supervisors of Mathematics (TASM), and Conference for the Advancement of
Mathematics Teaching (CAMT). He is also the author of the textbook Modeling with Mathematics:
A Bridge to Algebra 2. Paul received his bachelor’s degree in meteorology from the University of
Oklahoma and holds his master’s degree and doctorate in curriculum and instruction from the
University of Houston.