Rebuild & Rise

Introduction to Entrepreneurship

Grade: 12 | Duration: 90 minutes | Class size: 20

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Learning Objectives

Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS):

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.2: Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.1: Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on complex topics.
• CCSS.MP.1 (Math Practice): Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them (modeled through problem-solution validation).
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.11-12.3: Analyze a complex set of ideas or sequence of events and explain how specific individuals, ideas, or solutions influence outcomes or developments.

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Lesson Overview

This lesson introduces students to entrepreneurship with an emphasis on creativity, problem-solving, and personal accountability—tying into Module 1’s identity and ownership theme. Students brainstorm and validate potential business ideas through problem-solution mapping, cultivating critical thinking and collaboration skills.

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Materials Needed

• Whiteboard/markers or smartboard
• Sticky notes (3 colors)
• Large poster paper or chart paper for group work
• Personal journals or notebooks
• Pens and pencils
• Timer/stopwatch

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Lesson Timeline

Time	Activity	Description	Standards/Skills Focus
0 – 10 min	Warm-Up & Context Setting	● Brief recap of Module 1 personal responsibility themes. ● Connect entrepreneurship to identity and ownership — what it means to build something meaningful. ● Quick think-pair-share: “What business would you start if you had the chance to rebuild your life?”	SL.11-12.1 (Collaboration & Discussion)
10 – 25 min	Mini Lecture: What is Entrepreneurship?	● Definition, key concepts (innovation, risk-taking, value creation). ● Real-life examples linked to second chance stories. ● Emphasize accountability and discipline related to entrepreneurship.	RI.11-12.3 (Analyzing Ideas & Influence)
25 – 45 min	Brainstorming Session	● Individual brainstorming: students write down 3 business ideas inspired by their strengths and lived experiences. ● Share ideas in small groups (4-5 students); groups identify common themes or unique perspectives. ● Use color-coded sticky notes for each type of idea (innovation, addressing a community need, or personal passion).	W.11-12.2 (Organizing Ideas) & SL.11-12.1
45 – 60 min	Problem-Solution Validation Exercise	● Each group chooses 1-2 ideas to validate. ● Use a simple two-column chart: Problem (What problem does the idea solve?) / Solution (How does the business idea solve it?). ● Groups rotate to another group's chart and add feedback or questions using sticky notes. ● Discuss highlights and challenges for validating an idea.	MP.1 (Perseverance & Problem Solving) & W.11-12.2
60 – 75 min	Personal Reflection & Connection	● In journals, students write a short reflection responding to: “How does entrepreneurship relate to my personal responsibility and commitment to change?” ● Explicit connection to Module 1’s “Protecting My Peace” and accountability. ● Optionally, students draft a 90-day personal entrepreneurial goal related to their business idea.	W.11-12.2 (Explanatory Writing)
75 – 85 min	Group Share & Feedback	● Volunteers share their reflections and/or ideas. ● Class discussion on challenges and encouragement for moving forward. ● Teacher facilitates linking personal agency to entrepreneurship success.	SL.11-12.1 (Collaborative Discussion)
85 – 90 min	Closing & Homework Assignment	● Assign students to refine one business idea with a basic SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to discuss next class. ● Remind students to keep tying their ideas back to accountability and personal growth.	W.11-12.2 (Organizing & Analysis for Next Steps)

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Differentiation Strategies

• Provide sentence starters for ELL or students needing writing support during journaling.
• Visual aids with entrepreneurship vocab and examples to support comprehension.
• Flexible grouping to encourage diverse peer learning.
• Extension: Deeper idea validation using targeted market research questions for advanced learners.

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Assessment

• Formative assessment through group discussions and sticky-note feedback during problem-solution validation.
• Journaling reflection reviewed for comprehension and personal connection to the entrepreneurial mindset.
• Observation of participation and quality of idea generation.
• Homework (SWOT analysis) will serve as a bridge and preliminary assessment for next lesson.

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Teacher’s Notes & Tips

• Link entrepreneurship to real stories of second chances and resilience to inspire students.
• Facilitate a respectful environment where students feel safe sharing personal experiences and ambitious ideas.
• Emphasize entrepreneurship as a mindset and tool for personal and community empowerment, not just profit.
• Use personal commitment from MODULE 1 identity work as a lens for accountability in idea development.

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This plan intentionally integrates Common Core standards with a restorative and forward-thinking approach, enabling students to connect personal growth with entrepreneurial skills that empower their futures.