Lesson Plan

• Describe the two main categories of digital currencies and their key characteristics.
• Explain how blockchain technology secures cryptocurrency transactions.
• Compare cryptocurrency and virtual currency in terms of control, technology, and legal status.
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of digital currencies for society.
• Apply knowledge to identify real‑world examples of digital currency use.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Slides summarising cryptocurrency vs virtual currency
• Handout with comparison table and key terms
• Sample wallet interface screenshots
• Whiteboard and markers
• Internet access for short video demo

Begin with a quick poll: how many students have heard of Bitcoin or in‑game credits? Build on their existing knowledge of money and digital payments. Today they will differentiate cryptocurrency from virtual currency and be able to explain how each works and where they are used. Success will be measured by their ability to compare the two types and discuss advantages and challenges.

1. Do‑now (5') – Students list examples of digital money they encounter daily.
2. Mini‑lecture (15') – Define digital currency, introduce crypto vs virtual, show slides.
3. Interactive demo (10') – Walk through a blockchain transaction diagram and a virtual‑currency marketplace screenshot.
4. Group activity (15') – Teams fill a comparison chart (control, technology, legal status, uses) using the handout.
5. Whole‑class discussion (10') – Groups share findings; teacher clarifies misconceptions.
6. Quick quiz (5') – Exit ticket with three short questions on key concepts.

Summarise that digital currencies fall into two categories with distinct features and societal impacts. Students complete an exit ticket summarising one advantage and one challenge of each type. For homework, they research a recent news article about a cryptocurrency or virtual currency and write a brief reflection on its real‑world implications.