All grades  Project 9 weeks

"Hustle High: Unlocking Future Opportunities!"

Ruben M
D2.Eco.6.K-2
D2.Eco.2.9-12
D2.Eco.5.6-8
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage students in the practical exploration of entrepreneurship through the creation of a side hustle. Over the course of nine weeks, students will develop essential skills such as market research, financial literacy, and product development, while fostering self-directed learning and critical thinking. Through hands-on activities and real-world simulations, students will gain insights into economic principles and the entrepreneurial process, culminating in a Market Day Fair where they showcase their projects. This experience aims to build students' confidence in their ability to navigate future economic challenges and opportunities beyond high school.

Learning goals

Students will explore the entrepreneurial process by researching market trends and customer needs to develop a viable side hustle idea. They will enhance their financial literacy through budgeting and pricing exercises, applying these skills to create a sustainable business plan. By participating in role-playing and exhibition activities, students will refine their communication and negotiation skills, gaining insights into real-world entrepreneurial challenges. Through reflection and peer feedback, students will track their growth, fostering self-directed learning and critical thinking.
Standards
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Eco.6.K-2 - Explain how people earn income.
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Eco.2.9-12 - Use marginal benefits and marginal costs to construct an argument for or against an approach or solution to an economic issue.
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Eco.5.6-8 - Explain ways in which money facilitates exchange by reducing transactional costs.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will design and create a line of handmade crafts, such as reusable bags or plant holders, which they will sell at the Market Day Fair. These products will reflect their creativity and understanding of sustainability, incorporating materials and techniques learned during the project. Additionally, students will develop a digital portfolio documenting their side hustle journey, including a business plan and a mock-up or prototype of their product or service. This portfolio will serve as a comprehensive showcase of their learning and entrepreneurial skills.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with a dynamic 'Future Entrepreneurs Workshop', where students dive into role-playing activities. They will simulate real-world scenarios, such as pitching their side hustle ideas to a panel of "investors" and negotiating deals. This interactive session will spark excitement and curiosity, setting the stage for their journey into entrepreneurship.

Exhibition

Students will participate in a 'Market Day Fair,' where they will set up booths to showcase and sell their handmade crafts, such as reusable bags or plant holders. During the event, students will engage with visitors, practicing their sales pitches and demonstrating their products or services. This interactive marketplace will provide an authentic environment for students to apply their financial literacy skills and receive real-time feedback from potential customers.