OBJECTIVE:
Students will collaborate with a partner to develop and present a comprehensive business concept, including identifying a problem, defining a target customer, and proposing a product or service that provides a solution.
MATERIALS:
REQUIRED PREP:
Transform your room – Next Gen sessions should be different from typical classes — change the room’s seating order, and get ready for your first session!
Opening Huddle
Opening Huddle: Feel free to play music to generate energy and set the vibe!
Opening Ritual: Conduct your opening ritual!
Mood Check: Gather the students into a circle (standing or sitting – keep comfort in mind)!
Activity 1: Problem Spotter
Purpose:
Shows that many businesses start by solving small problems. Students practice identifying problems worth solving.
Prompt:
“What is one thing that annoys you every day?”
Steps:
- Students write one daily frustration on a sticky note.
- Put them on the board.
- Read a few aloud.
- How do you solve/work through your daily frustration
Examples students might say:
- Long lunch lines
- Expensive snacks
- Hard to find rides
- Group project stress
Activity 2: Choosing the Right Idea
Students:
- Select one idea from the list you created last week
- Define the problem your business solves
(Example: “Busy parents need affordable after-school tutoring options.”)
Activity:
- Interview 2 people (friends, family, or classmates)
- Research the problem and gather information from online sources
Deliverable:
- Problem statement
- Target customer description
Closing Huddle:
End by collectively performing your exit ritual! Remind students of the next session!
