Shark TanK
TECH FAIR COMPETITION
TECH FAIR COMPETITION
** This should be your capstone project, if you are just teaching the course for the semester, it could be your last unit. If you are teaching a year long class, it could be taught sometime in February (catch year long students and any students who entered for second semester)
The slides are the foundation of the unit, we are sure many teachers will take this to a different level depending on your expertise.
General summary of unit:
In the "Shark Tank" unit for 8th grade, students engage in an entrepreneurial journey akin to the popular TV show. Over the course of the unit, they will work in teams to develop innovative product ideas, conduct market research, create business plans, design prototypes or presentations, and ultimately pitch their concepts to a panel of "sharks" (judges). This project-based learning experience aims to foster creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills, empowering students to apply entrepreneurial principles in a real-world context while refining their ability to solve problems and present compelling ideas.
Skills students need or will develop:
Entrepreneurial Thinking: Students will learn to identify market opportunities, think creatively to develop innovative products, and assess the feasibility and potential impact of their ideas, which are essential skills in entrepreneurship.
Communication and Presentation Skills: Students will practice articulating their business ideas clearly and confidently, honing their ability to present to an audience and respond to questions or feedback, simulating a real-world pitch environment.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Working in teams will require students to collaborate effectively, share responsibilities, and leverage each other’s strengths, enhancing their ability to work as part of a group toward a common goal.
Student Goal:
The end student goal for the "Shark Tank" project is to successfully develop and pitch a viable business idea that demonstrates creativity, market understanding, and a solid business plan. Students should aim to effectively communicate their product’s unique value proposition, demonstrate how it meets consumer needs, and showcase their ability to respond to questions and feedback from the panel of judges. Ultimately, students will gain hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, enhancing their critical thinking, collaboration, and presentation skills, while also fostering a deeper understanding of the business development process.