Pitch It!!
10 to 15 days Unit Resources
General summary of unit:
The "Pitch It" entrepreneurship unit for middle school students, is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship. Through this mini-unit, students will learn to define entrepreneurship, recognize key traits of successful entrepreneurs, and comprehend the significance of small businesses in the US economy. They will also be taught to navigate the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, understand the essentials of business planning, and gain insights into the nuances of launching a business. Throughout the unit, students will be encouraged to apply problem-solving techniques to develop innovative business ideas, fostering a practical understanding of the entrepreneurial process.
Skills students need or will develop:
Critical thinking and problem-solving: Students will learn to apply problem/solution techniques to generate innovative business ideas and understand the hurdles faced by entrepreneurs, enabling them to think critically and find solutions to real-world challenges.
Communication and presentation skills: With the emphasis on creating a lean business plan and pitching a business idea, students will have the opportunity to develop effective communication and presentation skills, which are crucial for conveying ideas and concepts persuasively.
Understanding of financial concepts: Through discussions on personal finance considerations, appropriate business structures, funding options, and tax considerations, students will gain a foundational understanding of financial concepts related to entrepreneurship, fostering financial literacy and decision-making skills.
Ethical decision-making: By examining ethical considerations in entrepreneurship, students will be prompted to analyze the ethical implications of business decisions, thereby fostering a sense of ethical responsibility and encouraging the development of ethical decision-making skills.
Analytical skills: Through discussions on the stages of the entrepreneurial process and the factors influencing consumer purchase decisions, students will enhance their analytical skills, enabling them to assess market trends, consumer behavior, and business viability effectively.
Goals For A Final Project:
The major goal for students in the "Pitch It" entrepreneurship unit is to foster a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship and the essential skills required to navigate the entrepreneurial process successfully. By the end of the unit, students should be able to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to generate innovative business ideas, effectively communicate and present their business plans, and demonstrate an understanding of key financial and ethical considerations relevant to entrepreneurship. This is a good unit to do before the Culinary Concepts and extend the learning in Culinary Concepts if possible. This knowledge and skill set will empower students to develop a foundational understanding of entrepreneurship and prepare them for potential future endeavors in the field. Some may participate in the Acton Children's Business Fair.