Title – First Job and How to Get It
By – Charlie Talley
Primary Subject – Other – Career Exploration
Grade Level – 9-12

Objective: Write/draw a “blue print” / “game plan / “road map” mind map for securing your first paid job.
Outcome:

Final project will consist of a poster board “game plan” mind map for securing that first “real job” which includes:
• hourly wage
• time clock
• pay check with deductions for taxes, social security, etc.

Materials needed:

• poster board
• markers
• pens
• pencils

Activity:

1. Focus and Review:

   Summarize rationale for having a job (i.e. income available to pay for living expenses, contributing to society, helping others, supporting a family, etc.).

2. Statement of Objectives:

   Inform students that it is essential to have a “game plan” when securing one’s first “real” job.

3. Teacher Input:
   • Students will “map out” their game plan.
   • Criteria to consider may include:
     • current/transferable skills (learned at: home, school, athletics, volunteer activities, internships, etc.)
     • proximity to home
     • transportation to and from work
     • hours of availability
     • networking (with friends, family, contacts in community via church, clubs, etc.)
     • application process (online or paper)
     • resume development
     • references, etc.
4. Guided Practice:
   • Show example of mind map on board using task analysis (breaking it down into logical and sequential steps).
   • Use example of baking a cake (gathering ingredients, sequence of mixing dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately at first then together, including required temperature, baking time, etc.).
5. Independent Practice – Seatwork:
   • Students draw/sketch mind map with materials provided.
   • Students fill in bubbles or blank lines with the aspects and steps associated with securing that first job.
6. Closure:
   • Provide time for students to share their “game plan” mind map with fellow students.
   • Post mind maps on board and go over.
   • Summarize results.

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