Sep 22, 2021

Interactive: Let's Choose A Bank

Hat Tip to Dr. Barbara O'Neill who shared this Interactive Bank Comparison Tool on social media. 

This drag and drop tool is intuitive to use while illustrating common bank and credit union services and fees. Since there are only 12 different credit unions and banks included in this interactive, it's not likely that your students would find their bank. However, it can still be an engaging hook as students comparison shop for banks and learn what fees and services are most important to them. Students can then move on to NGPF's COMPARE: Select a Financial Account or Product activity where they can research local banks and credit unions.

Here's a screenshot of the interactive: 

Note on Second Chance Accounts: Second chance checking accounts are stripped-down versions of standard checking accounts, typically with fewer features and lower spending limits. Also called "basic" accounts, they can help get you back into a bank if your credit score or ChexSystems history prevents you from opening a regular account [ValuePenguin]

Follow-up questions you can ask before moving on to the COMPARE: Select a Financial Account or Product activity:

  • Which bank or credit union services will you prioritize when selecting your own account?
  • Which bank or credit union fees are most important for you to avoid? 
  • Which bank or credit union fees are irrelevant for you because you would never use those services?
  • Are there services that are not listed that you feel are important when selecting your own account?

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Enjoyed this interactive? Visit the Interactive Library and find engaging interactives along with worksheets to ensure learning occurs. 

About the Author

Brian Page

Making a difference in the lives of students through financial capability is Brian’s greatest passion. He comes to NGPF after fifteen years of public school teaching where he was the ‘11 Ohio Department of Education recipient of a Milken National Educator Award, the CEE Forbes Award winner, and a Money Magazine/CNN "Money Hero". He served on the working group for President Obama's Advisory Council on Financial Capability. He has private school experience as a Trustee for the Cincinnati Country Day School and was a past Ohio Jump$tart President. Brian holds a BBA and M.Ed. When Brian isn’t working alongside his NGPF teammates he is likely spending time with his wife, three children, and dog; hiking, or watching Ohio State football.

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