Lesson Plan
Future Quest Lesson Plan
Students will investigate a range of careers and skilled trades, reflect on personal interests, and begin mapping actionable steps toward their future goals.
This lesson shows students how classroom learning connects to real-world careers, promotes self-awareness, and kick-starts early career planning skills.
Audience
7th Grade
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Interactive exploration with discussion, reflection, and multimedia.
Materials
- Career Pathways Overview Chart, - Interest Inventory Worksheet, - Career Profiles Slides, - Career Exploration Reflection Sheet, - Pencils and Paper, and - Projector or Display Device
Prep
Prepare Materials
10 minutes
- Print copies of the Interest Inventory Worksheet and Career Exploration Reflection Sheet.
- Print and display the Career Pathways Overview Chart.
- Load the Career Profiles Slides onto the projector or computer.
- Review each generated material to familiarize yourself with questions and prompts.
Step 1
Introduction to Career Exploration
5 minutes
- Ask students: “Why is it important to learn about different careers and trades?”
- Display the Career Pathways Overview Chart and highlight key sectors.
- Explain the objectives and what students will do today.
Step 2
Interest Inventory Activity
10 minutes
- Distribute the Interest Inventory Worksheet.
- Students complete sections identifying hobbies, strengths, and subjects they enjoy.
- Circulate to support students and prompt deeper thinking.
Step 3
Career Profiles Exploration
10 minutes
- Present the Career Profiles Slides, showcasing 3–4 varied careers/trades.
- For each slide, discuss daily tasks, required skills, and education pathways.
- Students jot down notes on careers that resonate with their interests.
Step 4
Reflection and Next Steps
5 minutes
- Hand out the Career Exploration Reflection Sheet.
- Students write one career/trade they’re interested in, why, and one action step they can take.
- Invite 2–3 volunteers to share their reflections with the class.
Slide Deck
Career Profiles
Today’s agenda:
- Examine 4 different careers/trades
- Learn about daily tasks, required skills, and education pathways
- Think about which might fit your interests
Get ready to take notes on what resonates with you!
Welcome students. Introduce the slide deck: “We’re going to explore different careers and trades so you can see what daily work looks like, what skills you’ll need, and how to prepare.”
Software Developer
Daily Tasks:
• Writing and testing code
• Collaborating with designers and product teams
• Debugging issues and deploying updates
Key Skills:
• Problem-solving and logical thinking
• Attention to detail
• Communication and teamwork
Education Pathways:
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field
• Coding bootcamps or online courses
• Continuous self-learning
Read through each bullet and elaborate. Ask: “What do you think a typical day looks like for a software developer?”
Electrician
Daily Tasks:
• Installing and maintaining wiring systems
• Reading blueprints and technical diagrams
• Troubleshooting electrical issues
Key Skills:
• Manual dexterity and physical stamina
• Understanding of safety protocols
• Critical thinking and attention to detail
Education Pathways:
• Apprenticeship program (4–5 years)
• Technical school courses
• On-the-job training and licensing
Explain that electricians work both indoors and outdoors, often alongside construction teams. Prompt: “Why might hands-on skills be important here?”
Graphic Designer
Daily Tasks:
• Creating visual concepts and layouts
• Collaborating with clients or marketing teams
• Preparing files for print and digital use
Key Skills:
• Creativity and visual communication
• Proficiency with design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite)
• Time management and client communication
Education Pathways:
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s in Graphic Design
• Online design courses and certifications
• Building a portfolio of work
Highlight how creativity meets technology. Ask: “What software tools might a graphic designer use?”
Automotive Technician
Daily Tasks:
• Diagnosing vehicle issues using computerized tools
• Performing maintenance and repairs (brakes, engines)
• Testing and inspecting finished work
Key Skills:
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting
• Familiarity with diagnostic software
• Customer service and communication
Education Pathways:
• Vocational school or community college program
• Manufacturer-specific training
• ASE certification
Discuss how diagnostic tools are used. Prompt: “How does technology shape modern auto repair?”
Your Reflection
• Which career/trade interests you the most?
• Why does it appeal to you?
• What’s one action step you could take to learn more? (e.g., research online, talk to a professional, join a club)
Invite students to pick one career they found most interesting, and write down why. Then ask for a volunteer or two to share.
Worksheet
Interest Inventory Worksheet
Name: ________________________ Date: ________________
1. Hobbies & Interests
List three hobbies or activities you enjoy outside of school.
2. Strengths & Skills
Identify three of your personal strengths or skills.
3. Favorite Subjects
Which three school subjects do you enjoy the most? For each, explain why you like it.
- Subject 1: ____________________ Why? ____________________________
- Subject 2: ____________________ Why? ____________________________
- Subject 3: ____________________ Why? ____________________________
4. Dream Tasks & Careers
Think about tasks or activities you’d love to do as part of a future job.
Why do these tasks appeal to you?
5. Making Connections
Consider your favorite subjects and dream tasks. How might what you learn in school help you succeed in these activities or careers?
Link back to lesson plan materials: Future Quest Lesson Plan & Career Exploration Reflection Sheet
Worksheet
Career Exploration Reflection Sheet
Name: ________________________ Date: ________________
1. Career/Trade of Interest
Which career or trade are you most interested in?
2. Why This Career Appeals to Me
Explain why this career/trade appeals to you and how it relates to your interests or skills.
3. Next Action Step
Identify one specific action you can take in the next week to learn more or move closer to this career goal.
Link back to lesson plan materials: Future Quest Lesson Plan