aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Business
What age group	College
What topic	Taster session
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Engaging Introduction to Business: Taster Session

Setting the Scene: The Business Challenge

Imagine you are standing in the bustling centre of London, surrounded by iconic skyscrapers, each representing distinct businesses. To your left, the glimmering glass façade of a tech startup; to your right, the historic stone building of a long-established bank. The air is thick with innovation, tradition, and competition. Today, you're not just an observer; you are a budding entrepreneur ready to tackle a business challenge that could shape your future!

Icebreaker Activity: "The Business Elevator Pitch"

Objective

Kick off the session with an engaging icebreaker that fosters creativity and quick thinking. This activity will provide insight into students' perceptions of business while encouraging participation.

Instructions

1. Pair Up: Divide the class into pairs. Each pair will brainstorm a fictitious business idea.
2. Time Limit: Give them 5 minutes to create a simple business concept. They should consider the business name, target market, unique selling point (USP), and a brief value proposition.
3. Pitch Time: After the brainstorming session, each pair will have just 1 minute to present their idea in an 'elevator pitch' format to the rest of the class.
4. Feedback Loop: After each pitch, engage the class by asking for one piece of positive feedback and one constructive suggestion for improvement.

Conclusion: The Journey Ahead

Following the pitches, gather everyone back to the larger group. Highlight common themes, innovative thoughts, and how these ideas mirror real business challenges. Emphasise that this taster session is just the beginning of an exciting journey through the world of business, where students will learn about entrepreneurship, strategy, marketing, and finance.

Wrap-Up

• Reflective Question: Ask students to consider what they found most exciting about their business idea and the process of pitching it.
• Next Steps: Introduce the syllabus and set expectations for how the course will equip them with the skills needed for the complex world of business.

Encourage students to think of this session not just as a traditional lesson but as the first step in their entrepreneurial journey!