Shark Tank: Business Creation and Pitch Project
Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we create and pitch a sustainable business plan that integrates persuasive communication, financial analysis, and ethical considerations to secure investment and succeed in a competitive market?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- How can effective communication and persuasive techniques influence investment decisions?
- In what ways can mathematical models and financial analysis inform business strategies and predict profitability?
- How does understanding market trends and consumer behavior contribute to a successful business plan?
- What ethical considerations and social responsibilities should entrepreneurs consider when developing a business?
Standards & Learning Goals
Learning Goals
By the end of this project, students will be able to:- Students will develop a comprehensive business plan including a market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategies.
- Students will create and deliver a persuasive pitch to potential investors, incorporating effective communication techniques.
- Students will apply mathematical models to forecast revenue, expenses, and profitability.
- Students will evaluate ethical considerations and social responsibilities in business decision-making.
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to studentsEntrepreneur's Journey Kick-off
A local entrepreneur visits the class to share their startup story, highlighting challenges they faced and how they used math and communication skills to overcome them. Students get to ask questions and begin brainstorming their own business ideas.'Shark Tank' Product Deconstruction
Students participate in a 'blind taste test' or product challenge with everyday items, then analyze the market strategies behind those products. They use math to compare pricing and marketing tactics, sparking discussions about what makes a business successful.Portfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.Business Idea Genesis: Claiming Your Territory
Students will brainstorm and select a business idea, clearly defining the product or service, target market, and unique selling proposition. They will then craft an initial claim stating the viability and potential success of their business idea.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA one-page document outlining the business idea, target market, unique selling proposition, and a clear claim supporting its potential success.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9.1 Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.Financial Blueprint: Mathing Out the Model
Students will develop a basic financial model for their business, including projected revenue, expenses, and profit. They will use algebraic equations to represent these financial aspects and analyze different scenarios.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA spreadsheet or document outlining the projected revenue, expenses, and profit for the first year of business, with clear algebraic equations used for calculations.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.CED.A.1 Create equations and inequalities in one variable and use them to solve problems. Include equations arising from linear and quadratic functions, and simple rational and exponential functions.Pitch Perfect: Crafting Your Communication Strategy
Students will create a draft of their business pitch, focusing on clear and persuasive communication. They will practice delivering the pitch and receive feedback on their presentation skills.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA written draft of the business pitch and a video recording of a practice pitch delivery.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.9.4 Present information, findings, and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning and the organization, development, substance, and style are appropriate to purpose, audience, and task.Financial Forecast: ROI and Polynomial Power
Students will refine their financial model to include more complex calculations, such as break-even analysis and return on investment (ROI). They will use polynomial operations to model different financial scenarios and assess the potential profitability of their business.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityAn updated financial model that includes break-even analysis and ROI calculations, with clear explanations of the polynomial operations used.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.APR.A.1 Understand that polynomials form a system analogous to the integers, namely, they are closed under the operations of addition, subtraction, and multiplication; add, subtract, and multiply polynomials.Business Blueprint: The Full Business Plan
Students will create a comprehensive business plan that integrates all aspects of their business, including the market analysis, financial projections, operational strategies, and ethical considerations.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA complete business plan document that includes all required sections, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the business and its potential for success.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9.2 Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.Shark Tank Showdown: Pitching for Investment
Students will deliver their final business pitch to a panel of judges (e.g., teachers, local entrepreneurs, or investors). They will use digital media to enhance their presentation and persuasively communicate their business plan.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA live business pitch delivered to a panel of judges, accompanied by a digital presentation.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.9.5 Make strategic use of digital media (e.g., textual, graphical, audio, visual, and interactive elements) in presentations to enhance understanding of findings, reasoning, and evidence and to add interest.Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioShark Tank Business Plan Rubric
Business Idea & Initial Claim
This category assesses the clarity and viability of the initial business idea and the strength of the supporting claim.Business Idea and Claim Clarity
Clarity and focus of the business idea, target market, and unique selling proposition
Beginning
1 PointsThe business idea is vague and lacks a clear target market and unique selling proposition. The claim is unsupported and lacks focus.
Developing
2 PointsThe business idea is somewhat defined, with a basic understanding of the target market and unique selling proposition. The claim is present but lacks strong support.
Proficient
3 PointsThe business idea is clearly defined, with a well-defined target market and unique selling proposition. The claim is clear and supported by some evidence.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe business idea is exceptionally clear and innovative, with a precisely defined target market and a compelling unique selling proposition. The claim is persuasive and supported by strong, relevant evidence.
Research Quality and Support
Strength and relevance of the initial research supporting the business idea
Beginning
1 PointsMinimal research is evident, and the research does not adequately support the business idea.
Developing
2 PointsSome research is present, but it is not always relevant or sufficient to support the business idea.
Proficient
3 PointsAdequate research is presented, and it generally supports the business idea and claim.
Exemplary
4 PointsComprehensive and insightful research is presented, strongly supporting the business idea and claim. Research demonstrates a deep understanding of the market and potential challenges.
Financial Model & Math Application
This category evaluates the accuracy and sophistication of the financial model, including the use of algebraic equations and scenario analysis.Financial Projection Accuracy
Accuracy and completeness of the financial projections (revenue, expenses, profit)
Beginning
1 PointsFinancial projections are missing or highly inaccurate. Algebraic equations are not used or are incorrect.
Developing
2 PointsFinancial projections are incomplete or contain significant inaccuracies. Algebraic equations are attempted but contain errors.
Proficient
3 PointsFinancial projections are mostly accurate and complete. Algebraic equations are used correctly to represent financial relationships.
Exemplary
4 PointsFinancial projections are highly accurate, comprehensive, and realistic. Algebraic equations are skillfully used to model financial scenarios and provide insightful analysis.
Algebraic Modeling
Appropriate and correct use of algebraic equations to model financial relationships
Beginning
1 PointsNo attempt is made to use algebraic equations, or the equations are completely inappropriate for the context.
Developing
2 PointsAlgebraic equations are used incorrectly or with significant errors in modeling financial relationships.
Proficient
3 PointsAlgebraic equations are used correctly to model basic financial relationships, such as revenue, expenses, and profit.
Exemplary
4 PointsAlgebraic equations are used expertly to create a sophisticated and insightful financial model, demonstrating a deep understanding of financial relationships.
Scenario Analysis
Analysis of different financial scenarios (best-case, worst-case, most likely)
Beginning
1 PointsNo analysis of different financial scenarios is present.
Developing
2 PointsA limited attempt is made to analyze different financial scenarios, but the analysis is superficial.
Proficient
3 PointsDifferent financial scenarios are analyzed, and the analysis provides some insights into the potential risks and rewards of the business.
Exemplary
4 PointsA comprehensive and insightful analysis of different financial scenarios is presented, demonstrating a deep understanding of the factors that could impact the business's financial performance.
Communication & Pitch Quality
This category assesses the quality of the business pitch, including the narrative, presentation skills, and incorporation of feedback.Pitch Narrative
Clarity and persuasiveness of the business pitch narrative
Beginning
1 PointsThe pitch lacks a clear narrative and is not persuasive. Key points are missing or unclear.
Developing
2 PointsThe pitch has a basic narrative, but it is not particularly engaging or persuasive. Some key points are present but not well-developed.
Proficient
3 PointsThe pitch has a clear and reasonably persuasive narrative, highlighting the key points of the business.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe pitch presents a compelling and highly persuasive narrative that captivates the audience and effectively communicates the unique value proposition of the business.
Presentation Skills
Effectiveness of communication and presentation skills (clarity, confidence, engagement)
Beginning
1 PointsThe pitch is delivered poorly, with unclear communication and a lack of confidence. The audience is not engaged.
Developing
2 PointsThe pitch is delivered with some clarity and confidence, but there are areas for improvement. The audience is partially engaged.
Proficient
3 PointsThe pitch is delivered clearly and confidently, engaging the audience effectively.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe pitch is delivered with exceptional clarity, confidence, and charisma, captivating the audience and leaving a lasting impression.
Feedback Incorporation
Incorporation of feedback from peers and the teacher to improve the pitch
Beginning
1 PointsNo evidence of incorporating feedback is present.
Developing
2 PointsSome attempt is made to incorporate feedback, but the changes are superficial or ineffective.
Proficient
3 PointsFeedback is incorporated effectively to improve the clarity and persuasiveness of the pitch.
Exemplary
4 PointsFeedback is thoughtfully and strategically incorporated to create a polished and highly effective pitch, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.
Advanced Financial Analysis
This category evaluates the accuracy and sophistication of the refined financial model, including break-even analysis, ROI calculations, and polynomial operations.Financial Calculations
Accurate calculation of break-even point and return on investment (ROI)
Beginning
1 PointsBreak-even point and ROI are not calculated or are completely inaccurate.
Developing
2 PointsBreak-even point and ROI are calculated with significant errors.
Proficient
3 PointsBreak-even point and ROI are calculated accurately.
Exemplary
4 PointsBreak-even point and ROI are calculated accurately and interpreted thoughtfully, providing valuable insights into the business's financial viability.
Polynomial Modeling
Appropriate and correct use of polynomial operations to model financial scenarios
Beginning
1 PointsPolynomial operations are not used or are completely inappropriate.
Developing
2 PointsPolynomial operations are used incorrectly or with significant errors.
Proficient
3 PointsPolynomial operations are used correctly to model basic financial scenarios.
Exemplary
4 PointsPolynomial operations are used expertly to create sophisticated and insightful financial models, demonstrating a deep understanding of financial relationships and potential scenarios.
Profitability Assessment
Insightful assessment of the potential profitability of the business based on the refined financial model
Beginning
1 PointsNo assessment of profitability is present.
Developing
2 PointsA superficial assessment of profitability is provided with limited justification.
Proficient
3 PointsA reasonable assessment of profitability is provided, based on the financial model and ROI calculations.
Exemplary
4 PointsA comprehensive and insightful assessment of profitability is provided, demonstrating a deep understanding of the business's financial prospects and potential risks.
Comprehensive Business Plan
This category assesses the completeness, clarity, accuracy, and ethical considerations of the final business plan document.Business Plan Completeness
Completeness and integration of all required sections in the business plan (market analysis, financial projections, operational strategies, ethical considerations)
Beginning
1 PointsThe business plan is missing multiple required sections and lacks integration between the sections that are present.
Developing
2 PointsThe business plan is missing some required sections or lacks clear integration between the sections.
Proficient
3 PointsThe business plan includes all required sections with reasonable integration between them.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe business plan is comprehensive and includes all required sections, seamlessly integrated to create a cohesive and compelling document.
Clarity and Organization
Clarity, accuracy, and organization of the business plan
Beginning
1 PointsThe business plan is poorly written, disorganized, and contains numerous inaccuracies.
Developing
2 PointsThe business plan is somewhat unclear, disorganized, and contains some inaccuracies.
Proficient
3 PointsThe business plan is clear, accurate, and well-organized.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe business plan is exceptionally clear, accurate, and meticulously organized, presenting information in a logical and accessible manner.
Operational Strategies
Thoroughness and feasibility of the operational strategies (production, marketing, customer service)
Beginning
1 PointsOperational strategies are missing or unrealistic.
Developing
2 PointsOperational strategies are present but lack detail or feasibility.
Proficient
3 PointsOperational strategies are reasonably thorough and feasible.
Exemplary
4 PointsOperational strategies are exceptionally thorough, well-reasoned, and highly feasible, demonstrating a deep understanding of the business's operational needs.
Ethical Considerations
Depth and thoughtfulness of the ethical considerations and social responsibilities
Beginning
1 PointsEthical considerations and social responsibilities are not addressed.
Developing
2 PointsEthical considerations and social responsibilities are mentioned superficially.
Proficient
3 PointsEthical considerations and social responsibilities are addressed thoughtfully and appropriately.
Exemplary
4 PointsEthical considerations and social responsibilities are addressed with exceptional depth and thoughtfulness, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
Final Pitch & Presentation
This category assesses the quality of the final business pitch delivery, including the digital presentation and the ability to answer questions effectively.Presentation Design
Visual appeal and effectiveness of the digital presentation
Beginning
1 PointsThe digital presentation is poorly designed and ineffective in supporting the pitch.
Developing
2 PointsThe digital presentation is somewhat visually appealing but does not significantly enhance the pitch.
Proficient
3 PointsThe digital presentation is visually appealing and effectively supports the pitch.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe digital presentation is exceptionally visually appealing, engaging, and strategically designed to enhance the pitch and captivate the audience.
Pitch Delivery
Clarity, persuasiveness, and confidence in the live pitch delivery
Beginning
1 PointsThe pitch is delivered poorly, with a lack of clarity, persuasiveness, and confidence.
Developing
2 PointsThe pitch is delivered with some clarity and confidence, but lacks persuasiveness.
Proficient
3 PointsThe pitch is delivered clearly, persuasively, and confidently.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe pitch is delivered with exceptional clarity, persuasiveness, and confidence, captivating the audience and leaving a lasting impression.
Q&A and Defense
Effectiveness in answering questions from the judges and defending the business plan
Beginning
1 PointsThe student is unable to answer questions from the judges or defend the business plan.
Developing
2 PointsThe student struggles to answer questions from the judges and defend the business plan effectively.
Proficient
3 PointsThe student answers questions from the judges and defends the business plan reasonably well.
Exemplary
4 PointsThe student answers questions from the judges with exceptional clarity, insight, and confidence, effectively defending the business plan and demonstrating a deep understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.