Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question about Reality Check or the lesson plans? Check the list of frequently asked questions below. If you don't find an answer, please Contact Us.

What is Reality Check?

Reality Check is a book written by Grant Baldwin that is designed to help students as they make the transition from high school into college and the real world. The book is 50 short chapters with each chapter answering a different question on topics such as college, finances, relationships, and careers.

There are 5 different teacher guides containing a total of 50 lesson plans; one for each of the chapters from the book Reality Check. Each lesson plan is designed to be turn-key and simple to implement for an educator and also engaging and interactive for the students.

Why teach Reality Check?

In addition to teaching students about math, English, and science, schools have a responsibility to help prepare students for life. Most students aren't taught about job interviews, credit cards, or how to pay for college, and yet they are expected to know these things. Reality Check is an easy to implement tool that will help educators and schools prepare students for that next step.

What age level is appropriate for Reality Check?

Reality Check is designed primarily for high school students and college freshmen, however the material can be adapted for a middle school audience.

How much class time is needed for each lesson?

Each lesson is designed to be completed within a single class period (usually 50 minutes). Each lesson plan has several activities that provide flexibility need to shorten or lengthen a lesson. In addition, there are additional enrichment activities at the end of each lesson for teachers or classes that want additional class time on a subject.

What class is Reality Check best suited for?

The curriculum for Reality Check is typically best suited for a Family and Consumer Sciences type class. It could also be used in economics, career planning, life skills, or advisory periods.

How much preparation is required for each lesson?

The Reality Check curriculum was designed by teachers for teachers! That means it won't require late nights preparing and studying in preparation for class the next day. This is a turn-key resource that includes procedures, activities, and assessments so all the teacher needs to do is be familiar with the material.

Do I need to be certified to teach Reality Check?

Absolutely not! Any educator or school may use Reality Check with their students.

How does Reality Check correlate with national standards?

Lesson plans meet National Standards from the following organizations: