Our Cryptocurrency mini-unit has gotten a major update! We revised and refreshed the content throughout to reflect how cryptocurrency is used in 2025. Learn more about the changes.

What’s New?

• All existing lessons have been revised to improve clarity, accuracy, and relevance
• We’ve de-emphasized the technical side of blockchain and cryptocurrency's original use as digital cash
• We now highlight cryptocurrency’s reality as a speculative asset, a hedge against inflation, and a store of value
• New emphasis on the contrast between cryptocurrency’s decentralized origins and today’s centralized platforms, traceable transactions, and exchange-based ownership
• Additional new content on crypto exchanges, custodial wallets, stable coins, debit cards, and real-world hacks

New and Updated Activities!

• Updated Activities:
  • DEBATE: Is Cryptocurrency a Wise Investment Strategy?
  • PLAY: The Bitcoin Rollercoaster
• New activity added: PROJECT: The Crypto Times is a creative project where students create a newspaper reflecting the big news during certain periods in cryptocurrency's history
• One activity retired: PLAY: Secure the Blockchain has been retired because it no longer reflects the current focus of the mini-unit

Same Format You Know and Love

• Lessons available as Google Docs and Nearpods
• Exit Tickets for each lesson (Google Docs + Forms)

This update helps students better understand not just how cryptocurrency works, but how people actually use it, why they buy it, and what risks they face.

About the Author

Hannah Rael

As NGPF's Marketing Communications Manager, Hannah (she/her) helps spread the word about NGPF's mission to improve the financial lives of the next generation of Americans.