Building Your Career Pathway

Jessica Handley

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Building Your Career Pathway

Explore career pathways

In this lesson, students will learn about various career pathways and the steps needed to achieve their professional goals, including education and training requirements. This lesson is important as it helps students understand the connection between their current education and future career opportunities, encouraging them to think critically about their interests and strengths.

Audience

7th Grade Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Explore career pathways

Materials

Post-it notes, Pens, Career Pathways Worksheet, and Career Pathways Discussion Questions

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what a career pathway is and why it's important.
Ask students to share what they know about different careers and what interests them.

Step 2

Exploration Activity

20 mins

Distribute the Career Pathways Worksheet.
Have students list their interests and strengths.
Guide them to match these with potential career paths using the worksheet.

Step 3

Group Discussion

15 mins

Use the Career Pathways Discussion Questions to facilitate a group discussion.
Encourage students to share their findings and thoughts on different career paths.

Step 4

Reflection and Goal Setting

10 mins

Ask students to reflect on what they learned and write down one career goal.
Discuss the importance of setting goals and the steps needed to achieve them.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Summarize the key points of the lesson.
Encourage students to continue exploring career options and discuss with family or mentors.

Discussion

Career Pathways Discussion

A discussion to help students explore different career paths and understand the steps needed to achieve their goals.

What are some careers that interest you and why?

Encourage students to think about their hobbies and subjects they enjoy in school.

What skills do you think are important for your chosen career?

Guide students to consider both technical and soft skills.

How can education and training help you achieve your career goals?

Discuss the role of education, certifications, and on-the-job training.

Worksheet

Career Pathways Worksheet

A worksheet to help students identify their interests and strengths and match them with potential career paths.

List three interests or hobbies you have.

Think about activities you enjoy doing in your free time.

What are three strengths or skills you possess?

Consider both academic and personal skills.

Match your interests and strengths with potential career paths.

Use online resources or career guides to find matches.