What Students Learn

Learning objectives

• How to locate an ATM and what to look for when choosing between in-network and out-of-network machines
• The step-by-step process for making a safe withdrawal — inserting a card, entering a PIN, selecting an amount, and collecting cash and receipt
• How to make deposits at an ATM and when that option is available through your bank
• What ATM fees are, how they add up, and how to avoid them by using in-network machines
• Key ATM safety practices — shielding your PIN, checking for card skimmers, and staying aware of your surroundings
• How ATM usage connects to managing a checking account balance and recording transactions in a check register

For Teachers

How to use this lesson

Play the video to walk students through the full ATM process visually. Use the lesson page’s step-by-step guide for discussion. After viewing, ask students to identify the steps in sequence without looking at the lesson — reinforces retention of procedural knowledge.

Discussion: What happens if you forget your PIN? What should you do if an ATM keeps your card? What’s the difference between using your bank’s ATM and a convenience store ATM? These questions surface real-world decision points that make the lesson memorable.

Works well as part of a banking unit — after checking account basics and before bank statement lessons. Particularly effective for students who are approaching their first job and first paycheck.

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