In Unit 2 of TEKS Financial Mathematics, students learn how income really works—from reading a paycheck to understanding total compensation and how economic factors influence long-term earning potential. This unit builds directly on their lifestyle goals from Unit 1, helping students evaluate whether their chosen career path can support their desired financial plan.
Students explore the differences between gross and net pay, compare W-2 and contractor roles, and analyze the value of employee benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off. They also begin mapping a long-term income strategy that includes additional income streams and ongoing skill development.
What Students Do in Unit 2:
- Read and interpret pay stubs (gross vs. net pay, taxes, and deductions)
- Compare salaries, employment statuses, and total compensation packages
- Understand essential tax forms like W-4, W-2, 1099-NEC, and 1040
- Analyze benefits (health insurance, retirement plans, PTO, etc.)
- Explore long-term income planning and how economic trends impact earnings
Unit 2 helps students see income not just as a number on a paycheck, but as a complete picture of financial opportunity, benefits, and career strategy.