The Junior Achievement BizTown curriculum was created especially for 4th, 5th, and 6th graders. Students learn the principles necessary for a successful day in JA BizTown. For example, they learn about good citizenship, financial literacy, and economics. To further their understanding, students take skills assessments and read through JA BizTown classified ads to help guide them to select a job they would like to have when they spend the day at JA BizTown. Students have the opportunity to work as a CEO, CFO, or a business specific job such as the sales manager at Best Buy, or the bank teller at Bank of America.
After the curriculum is taught, the students come to JA BizTown and become “grown- ups” for one day to put into practice all the principles they have learned in the classroom. JA BizTown is designed to reflect a town in the businesses, landscape, and the architecture.
Students leave JA BizTown feeling personally successful after spending the day working hard at their jobs. Furthermore, they leave with a greater understanding of the value of a dollar, the importance of teamwork, and how to be a contributing citizen in the community. Participants conclude the program with a wrap- up session in the classroom. They work closely with teachers and other classmates to determine their business’ profit (or loss), and to analyze the circular flow of money in the economy.
“I truly had an amazing time that I will never forget! I would recommend for everyone to go to JA BizTown to have the same great experience that I did,” said a 5th grade participant while reflecting on his experiences at JA BizTown.
Time spent at JA BizTown is only a day, but the impact that this experiential learning has will last a lifetime!
To learn more about JA BizTown, please visit:
