This publication is intended to assist teachers in planning an instructional program in consumer education to meet the state requirements as outlined in the School Code of Illinois. Each of 15 chapters follows a similar format. Each topic is identified in the opening paragraphs, followed by student objectives, an outline of content, suggested activities, and resources. The resources section at the end of each topic reflects the most current material available. Chapter titles are "The Consumer in the Marketplace"; "The Consumer in Our Economy"; "Budgeting"; "Saving, Investing, and Financial Services"; "Consumer Credit"; "Taxes"; "Insurance"; "Consumer Services"; "Housing"; "Food"; "Transportation"; "Clothing"; "Health Care"; "Recreation"; and "Home Furnishing and Equipment." The"Consumer Education Resources" section contains the most used resources for the field of consumer education. An appendix contains "Consumer Education and the Illinois Learning Standards," a correlation of consumer education to the Illinois Learning Standards. (YLB)