Henrico

Pitch Perfect: The Ultimate Shark Tank Challenge!

Durable Skills Focus for this Lesson - 🔗

Character

Citizenship

Communication

Collaboration

Critical Thinking

Creative Thinking

Grade Level - Secondary

Standard(s)

Differentiating the Organizations and Characteristics of Business: CTE Competencies #39-46
Examining Economic Factors Affecting Business: CTE Competencies #47-50
Identifying the Scope of Management: CTE Competencies #52-57
Conducting Financial Activities: CTE Competencies #58, 60, 62, 64, 65, 67-68
Conducting Marketing Activities: CTE Competencies #69, 71-72

About the Learning Experience

This learning experience is an engaging and dynamic project designed to foster creativity and innovation among students. In this project, students step into the shoes of entrepreneurs, developing and pitching groundbreaking business ideas to a panel of "Shark" investors. This immersive experience encourages students to think outside the box and develop unique solutions to real-world problems.

Throughout the project, students work in teams to create original products, services, or business concepts. They conduct thorough market research, develop detailed business plans, and craft compelling pitches. By partnering with school librarians, students also have the opportunity to create tangible prototypes, bringing their ideas to life.

The project also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students learn to identify market gaps, analyze competitors, and devise innovative marketing strategies. They also gain financial literacy by creating realistic financial projections and understanding the costs associated with their business ideas.

Public speaking and persuasive communication are key components of the project, as students present their ideas in a Shark Tank-style pitch. This experience helps them build confidence and refine their presentation skills.

Overall, this learning experience empowers students to be creative thinkers, equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to succeed in the ever-evolving business world.

"I enjoyed having something to meticulously work on and being able to physically bring an idea to life. (Library staff helped us create using Cricut.) Our teacher was there to answer our inquiries as well as assist us. The project gave room to reflect, add-on, construct, and produce. It was an amazing experience."

"The project was a highly engaging experience for students. They demonstrated creativity in their business ideas and improvement in their public speaking skills. The collaboration among team members was evident, and many students took ownership of their projects, going beyond the basic requirements. The inclusion of guest judges added an element of realism, and students benefited from receiving constructive feedback from professionals in the field."