FHS DECA

Now Seeking 09-10 DECA Officers!!

2009-03-13T15:19:00.000-07:00

Do you have...

Initiative? Enthusiasm? Attitude? Commitment?

Foothill DECA Needs YOU!!

Now seeking 2009-2010 Foothill DECA officers!

Officers are:

To be enrolled in ROP Marketing, Sports Marketing Or Economics of Business Ownership
To demonstrate initiative, commitment and enthusiasm
To remain in their role for the entire year
Expected to raise funds and attend ALL conferences

Below are the forms you will need if you wish to apply for an officer position. Mrs. Raaker or Mrs. Andrews can also answer any additional questions you may have. Stop by and see us in A4. We are looking forward to another great DECA year!

FHS Officer Descriptions

Officer Application

Officer Contract

End Of The Year Survey!

2008-06-11T23:26:00.000-07:00

Click here for the end of the year survey.

Please print out your results. Your answers are anonymous but I want to be sure everyone completes the survey. Thanks for participating! :)

SBA Approved Franchises

2008-06-05T09:29:00.001-07:00

wecxClick here for link for SBA Approved Franchises

SBA Approved Franchises

2008-06-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

wecxClick here for link for SBA Approved Franchises

Intro to Franchising

2008-05-31T19:41:00.000-07:00

We will begin our research on franchising by reading an article on Entrepreneur.com. Click here to read the article entitled "Super Sleuthing". Answer the questions on the handout you received in class.

Economics of Business Ownership Students - Writing Your Executive Summary

2008-05-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

Here some resources to help your write your executive summary section of your business plan.

Project 18 - Executive Summary Handout

Powerpoint: Mission & Vision Statements

Sample Company Mission & Vision Statement

Marketing - Product Planning Unit

2008-05-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

Here are links to the powerpoints presented in class:

Chapter 30

Chapter 31.1

Chapter 31.2

Here is a link to the unit project:

Cereal Box New Product Development Project

Economics of Business Ownership - Project 10 Startup Funds Required

2008-05-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

Now it is time to estimate the start-up costs to get your business up and running. Below you will find some helpful resources.

Powerpoint: Ways to Fund Your Business

Starting Costs Calculator

Startup Costs Worksheet

Business Plan Wrap-Up

2008-05-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

Business Plan Wrap-Up
After many weeks of working on our business plans, we are drawing to a close. The finished product may be somewhat abbreviated to what may be actually necessary, should you decide to pursue this venture. To develop your business plan further, you may wish to seek business advice from SCORE (Service Corps or Retired Executives). SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business" is the best source of free and confidential small business advice to help you build your business—from idea to start-up to success. SCORE is a nonprofit organization that provides a public service to America by offering small business advice and training. SCORE was formed in 1964 to help small businesses flourish. SCORE's 10,500 volunteers have more than 600 business skills. Volunteers share their wisdom and lessons learned in business. Volunteers are working/retired business owners, executives and corporate leaders. Business counseling can help you start, grow and manage your business. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Services for Entrepreneurs
SCORE offers Ask SCORE email advice online.
Face-to-face small business counseling at 389 chapter offices. Find an office.
Low-cost workshops at 389 chapter offices nationwide. You may contact the local East Bay SCORE chapter for schedule.
"How to" articles and business templates

The final tasks for this project include:

Project 8 The Marketing Plan Draft due Tuesday 5/20
Project 10 Schedule of Start-up Funds Required Draft due Tuesday 5/20
Project 18 The Executive Summary Draft due Wednesday 5/21
Project 19 Creating the Business Plan Cover Page Final BP Due Friday 5/23
Project 20 Final Assembly of Your Business Plan Final BP Due Friday 5/23
Project 21 Business Plan Presentation Presentations Wed 5/28 - Fri 5/30

Final Business Plan
Review and revise all drafts, as necessary, and submit a final business plan. The final business plan should be word-processed and submitted in a presentation folder or you may wish to bind it in class. Remember that even though we have done these sections independently, they must now come together and flow as one project. Be aware of font, headings, format, etc to ensure project unity. In addition to your revised business plan, please also submit all draft work done (at the back). The finished business plan should include the following:

Project 19 Cover Page (with the logo -project 3, name of your company, its address and phone number, and the chief executive's name)
Table of Contents (with page numbers)
Project 18 Executive Summary
Project 2 Company Description
Project 4 Product/Service Plan
Project 5 Market Analysis
Project 8 Marketing Plan
Project 10 Schedule of Start-up Funds Required
Appendix to include: logo (project 3), business card (project 6), company letterhead (project 7), trifold brochure (project 13), and a press release (project 14)

(Project 21) Business Plan Power Point Presentation
You will also be required to make a presentation to the class, pitching your business concept. You will prepare a Power Point Presentation with 10-12 slides and save this to a CD. All CD’s will be collected so they should be labeled with your name, your business name, the date, and your class period. Professional dress will be required.

Your presentation should include the following:

Company Name & Description
Opportunity/Feasibility & Product/Service Plan
Explain the opportunity. What market need does your product or service fulfill?
How do you plan to take advantage of the opportunity?
What is your unique selling proposition (USP)?
Who is your competition and how are your positioned in contrast to what they are offering
Tell us about YOU!
Why are you (or your team) uniquely qualified to make this business successful?
Explain your credentials (experience, motivation, plan to acquire any skills or training that you don’t already possess).
Market Analysis
Discuss trends and growth patterns in your industry. Identify your direct and indirect competition. Explain any barriers to entering this industry. Clearly define your customer profile, in terms of demographics, geographics, psychographics & customer motivations for purchase. Explain how your data was collected, the importance of market research and how you plan to continually update your information.
Marketing Plan
Identify your marketing objective and explain how you will implement the marketing strategies of product, price, place and promotion.
Start up Funds Required Briefly discuss the start-up funds required to open your business and explain how you plan to obtain them (savings, loan, investors etc.). Financial institutions like to see that you are willing to invest some of your own money, in addition to the money you may be acquiring from investors or in a start up loan.
Closing Statement
Make a strong closing statement reiterating the strength of you (or your team) and your qualificiations, your company, your product/service and why you are positioned for success.

Economics of Business Ownership Students- Creating A Promotional Trifold Brochure

2008-05-07T06:44:00.000-07:00

Developing effective marketing materials is critical to the success of your business. At some point, you may wish to hire a professional to help you in this endeavor, but for a small business owner, cost may be prohibitive so let's explore the basics of creating a tri-fold brochure.

Read and take some notes on this article "6 Steps To Design Effective Brochures". Retain your notes for a future notebook check.

Here is an article entitled "Use Word to Create a Tri-fold Brochure", provided by Computer Companion, if you want to format the brochure yourself. If you prefer, you may opt for a simpler method, by utilizing previously designed templates (like the ones available on Microsoft Office Online).

Be sure to refer back to your notes on basic design principles such as balance, color, texture, line and harmony. Make your brochures decisions based on your knowledge of these principles, combined with the basic understanding of your business and it's target audience.

Economics of Business Ownership Students - Creating Your Marketing Plan

2008-04-20T21:29:00.000-07:00

A marketing plan is a plan used by a business to guide its marketing process to a desired conclusion.

For the purpose of your business plan project, your marketing plan should include:

Marketing Objective(s)
Marketing Mix Product, Price, Place Decisions (as they relate to your marketing efforts) Promotion Decisions – promotional mix (combination of promotional elements to include personal selling, advertising, sales promotion, direct marketing and public relations)
Promotional Implementation Plan –timeline for activities/responsibilities
Promotional Budget

Refer back to your notes on Chapter 10.1 as you begin to write your Marketing Plan

Go Green & Resources Related to Social Responsibility

2008-04-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

If you were priveleged to sit in on the "Go Green" Presentation on Monday in the MP & met the founder of the Go Green Initiative, Jill Buck, this is the site she referenced.
Go Green Initiative
It helps explain in detail what their organization does and can be a great planning tool for you if you wish to get involved.

Additionally, here are some other resources that may be of interest to you.

CorpWatch Investigates and helps to expose corporate violations of human rights, environmental crimes, fraud, and corruption around the world.

SourceWatch Documents the PR & propaganda activities of PR firms & professionals engaged in managing and manipulating public perception, opinion, and policy.

PRWatch This site works to expose public relations spin and propaganda

International Conference Update

2008-04-14T23:01:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of "Go Green" week, I am opting not to print these but feel free to print a copy if you wish. Please be sure to read all updates, as well as the packet that you had originally (to register). If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Raaker or Mrs. Andrews.

New Info on Hotel & Surrounding Area

Foothill DECA Tentative ICDC Agenda

DECA ICDC Dress Code

Important Conference Updates

Original Registration Packet (in case you have lost yours)

Green Marketing & Social Responsibility

2008-04-13T22:01:00.000-07:00

According to the American Marketing Association, green marketing is the marketing of products that are presumed to be environmentally safe. Thus, green marketing incorporates a broad range of activities, including (but not limited to) product modification, packaging changes, and/or advertising modifications. Similar terms used are environmental marketing and ecological marketing.

The term social responsibility, as defined by dictionary.com is known as the principle that companies should contribute to the welfare of society and not be solely devoted to maximizing profits. Socially responsible companies can act in a number of ways to benefit society. For example, companies can give money to the arts, fund academic scholarships, support community-building initiatives, and so on. They can also commit to not pollute or to reduce the pollution they put out, to not build weapons, and so forth.

ASSIGNMENT

Directions:
1. Choose a partner to work with. (Note: Business Ownership students will work with your business plan partner).
2. Choose a company that demonstrates an example of green marketing, or some act of social responsibility (and let your teacher know right away so there are no duplicates).
(Note: Business Ownership students will strategize on ideas to implement environmental conscious or other types of social responsibility acts, within their own business).
3. Create a presentation for the class on your findings. Be sure to include the name of the company, their size, their headquarters, and how this act of social responsibility it carried out, as well as how it is promoted to the public. You must create a visual aid (powerpoint or display board) to enhance your presentation.

Visual Merchandising Tips & Tricks

2008-04-07T22:20:00.000-07:00

Visual Merchandising Tips & Tricks

Retail visual merchandising shares many of the same principles as advertising, graphic design, and interior design -- the purpose of visual merchandising is to create a logical and visually pleasing environment that will grab attention and translate into increased sales. Visual merchandising basics are pretty easy to understand - a clean store, well lit, with merchandise displayed in neat groupings. But as an industry, visual merchandising delves a lot deeper, focusing on the psychology and motivations of the target customer. The following are the top five tips for retail visual merchandising:

1. Entice - Visual merchandising actually starts on the street outside the store. Creative and interesting window displays will catch the eye of people walking by and will draw them into the store. Many store owners make the mistake of cramming in lots of merchandise (to indicate the variety of items they might carry,) but the most successful window designs create a theme, mood, or "lifestyle" that piques curiosity. Change the window displays with the seasons, and always reflect your newest or best-selling items.

2. Impact - We've all done it - you walk into a store, take a lap around, and leave. Maybe you were "just looking" -- more than likely, though, something about the store or the merchandise displays turned you off. The experience of visiting an establishment should be as rich as is appropriate -- any prospective customer should be able to walk in and feel respected and comfortable. Whether it's music, product displays, lighting, or even the climate control, everything in the store can impact the shopping experience.

3. Inspire - Create product displays that will show the customer how an item might fit into their everyday life. In a home store, that might mean a sofa-chair grouping or a complete table setting. In a clothing store it might mean dressing mannequins -- whatever the store type, customers are more likely to purchase if they can imagine themselves using/wearing the product.

4. Identify - These days, many shoppers are busy people. Perhaps they're popping in on the way home from work, or on the way to the party -- whatever the case may be, shoppers are more likely to purchase if they can find what they are looking for, easily identify the price, and then find the register and check out. Product should be organized in logical groupings -- whether by item type, color, or some other characteristic, and signage and product descriptions should be clear and easy to read.

5. Add-on - Point-of-sale add-ons (also known as "impulse buys") can generate extra dollars in sales. Think of small items that people usually forget -- batteries, light bulbs, gift wrapping, etc -- these small items can be placed near or at the register as a gentle reminder to the customer.

Visual Merchandising

2008-04-02T07:21:00.000-07:00

Please review the following powerpoint presentation on Visual Merchandising and take some notes. Your notes will be collected as part of a future notebook check and will be also be used to determine eligibility for a future offsite assignment.

Creating A Survey

2008-03-17T22:26:00.000-07:00

Your task is to create a survey to help you gather primary data for your business. The survey must be minimally 12 questions. It must include demographic data. It should include minimally 3 different types of questions (rank, grid, scale, etc.). It should be word processed, formatted correctly and have a professional appearance. If you have any questions, please see the Powerpoint on Constructing A Survey (or see your teacher).

After submitting your word-processed survey and receiving teacher approval, you may duplicate your survey to administer. You must survey minimally 25 people, tally your results and present your findings to the class in an informal presentation.

Online ROP Survey

2008-03-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Student,

We would appreciate your support in completing a questionnaire for ROP research purposes.

The objective of the survey is to find out student perspectives on why they chose ROP, information about their attendance habits, grades, study perspectives, attitudes about standardized tests, the ROP experience, and their future plans. Your responses we will serve as a tool to help us improve our programs.

Below is the Internet link for your classes. The survey should take five to ten minutes to complete.

FHS Economics of Business Ownership - Raaker

FHS Marketing: (both classes)

If you have questions, please let me know.

Thank you for your interest in Tri-Valley ROP’s research and improvement process.

Creating An Action Plan

2008-03-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

CREATING AN ACTION PLAN

WHAT IS IT?
An action plan is nothing more (or less) than carefully listing all the things that your team needs
to do. It outlines your strategy for completing the project.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
• Action plans make your work more intentional.
• It is difficult to hold each other accountable for the project goals unless there is a written
plan of work to be accomplished.

WHEN IS THIS USEFUL?
Once you have clearly defined your problem, decided on what project to do, and power mapped.

SKILLS: action plans, negotiating, teamwork,

STEPS:
1. Look at the project outline. To create an action plan, teams might want to start by looking and thinking about the resources and obstacles that will affect their project idea. Teams may want to keep the following questions in mind when making their plan.

What is our project’s overarching goals and mission statement?
How much time do we have to work together?
What information, resources and power do we need to implement our
project’s goals and mission?
What are the possible barriers to meeting our project’s goals?
Are there possible alternative courses of action?

2. Prioritize goals: Which goals are most important (which goals are absolutely necessary to
complete your project)?

3. Which Comes First? Together, draft a plan of goals in sequential order. Your team might
have to come up with a series of preliminary goals that they need to accomplish in order
to arrive at their final goal. Sometimes you have to put off your major goals until later,
sometimes you need to work on more than one goal at the same time. While the group
may not be ready to develop a specific weekly timeline at this point, try to have team
members prioritize tasks—what needs to happen first? What is the logical way to order
the goals so you can complete your project?
a. Possible mini-exercise (can be used for step 3 Prioritize and step 4 Which Comes
First?): Once you have identified your major goals, sometimes it is good to break
into small groups and ask each group to rank the goals in order of importance
and/or the order in which they should be done. Then come back together and
compare what people came up with, highlighting differences between plans, and
that there is more than one way to create an action plan. Decide together which
order is best.

4. Brainstorm: Next, take one of the project’s intermediate goals—i.e. if the project is
starting a community garden, one of the project’s major goals may be to make sure that
the garden is visible in the community and that neighbors are encouraged to participate.
Begin by brainstorming a big list of all the things that need to be done to implement that
goal. What are different possible strategies for promoting the garden to the community?
How would neighbors feel welcome? What would make people want to participate?
Stress to teams that this list can be huge and they should try to think as broadly as
possible to get everything down on paper.

5. Setting Objectives: Building on the large list of possible steps, next try to get the team to
think of more specific objectives that will enable them to reach their goal. While team
member may have many ideas of how to make the garden visible (buying billboard ads,
giving away vegetables, etc.) some ideas may be more realistic than others. Good
objectives clearly state how you will reach a larger goal. It may be helpful to keep in
mind that a good objectives is “SMART,” or:
• Specific: It addresses the matter specifically
• Measurable: It can be measured to determine whether it has been achieved.
• Achievable: It is within the means and capacity of your group.
• Realistic: It is practical and can be accomplished within a reasonable time frame.
• Time-bound: The time period for reaching it is clearly specified.

6. Setting Tasks: For each objective, have group members brainstorm all the possible steps
that would be required to complete the objective. Next, prioritize these tasks. Team
facilitators could ask: Which things are more important than others? Which intermediate
steps must be done first before moving onto other steps? What different strategies are
appropriate to each step? Try to make a logical progression of each thing you need to do.

7. Creating Timelines: Next, match these preliminary goals and immediate steps up with
timelines. What is realistic to get accomplished in a certain time? While timelines are
important, keep in mind that they may change as each group moves forward into
implementing their project.

8. Creating accountability mechanisms: What things do you need to do to make sure the work
gets done one time? Sometimes it helps to have a team member’s job as accountability
checker, they check in on those who are doing the task.

9. Plan celebrations! As long as you are doing all this work, you might think how you will
celebrate. Plan on time for reflection, evaluation, and celebration.
* Note that some groups will not complete an action plan with every step they will do, but will
identify major goals and then make a detailed plan when they get to them.

EVALUATION:
• What was it like to make this action plan?
• Was it difficult to make decisions on what to do? Did you decide democratically? Were
there power dynamics at play?
• Is your plan more complicated or take more steps than you first thought? What things did
you not think of before making the plan?
• How will this help you get your work done? What can you do to be accountable

Apprentice Print Ad Challenge

2008-03-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Your task is to create a print ad & a presentation with your team. Below you will find the steps to the process.

Select a client & a product (or service)
Determine the target market (in terms of demographics, geographics & psychographics)
Determine your marketing objectives
Create a theme/concept that suits both your objectives and your audience.
Create your print ad (copy ready, 8 ½ by 11).
Prepare a presentation with a visual aid (Powerpoint or other) to present your ad and the rationale behind your marketing decisions. Sell us on why your ad suits your market & best accomplishers your marketing objectives. You must be in professional dress.

Good luck! See you in the boardroom (Teams will present either Tuesday 3/18 or Wednesday 3/19)

Chapter Awards Program

2008-02-26T10:03:00.000-08:00

Foothill DECA!

I am thrilled that we have embraced the challenge of completing the scrapbook (Chapter Awards Program) that will illustrate all that we have accomplished this year.

Click here for the narrative that will help you write up the event that you have been assigned to. Be sure you include ALL information including the PEE (plan, execute, evaluate) and the category it fulfills (Community Service, Social Intelligence, etc.)

Remember, your contribution is NOT optional and will be worth points. Thanks for your had work!

Your fearless leader!
Mrs. Raaker

Occupational Outlook Handbook

2008-02-26T09:16:00.000-08:00

To complete your career profile, connect to the Occupational Outlook Handbook to conduct your online research.

Creating A Business Card - Business Ownership Students

2008-02-18T13:45:00.000-08:00

Creating A Business Card

Overview: During this lesson you will create a business card for your new company. You will use your logo and tagline (created in the previous lesson) and include your company name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number and fax number, as well as your name, title and contact information. You are encouraged to apply design concepts and color theory to your business card.

Read the article below and take some brief notes. Title (and #) this assignment and retain it in your class binder for a future notebook check.

Smart Ways To Use Your Business Card

Instructions:

1) First you will sketch a design of the idea for your business card and answer the questions, using the format below. You will incorporate your company logo (created in a previous lesson) into your card design

Planning Tool for Business Card

By completing this worksheet, you will begin to make important decisions about how you want your card to look. Think about the image you wish to convey about your company and who (audience) you will be giving your business cards to, to determine what colors/fonts/graphics would be appropriate for them.

2) Next you will want to seek feedback about your business card.

3) Once you have your plan in place, create your business cards based on your design. You can use the business card template file below or set up your own file in your word processor or paint program. Create one complete card that includes your logo, tagline, company name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number and fax number, as well as your name, title and contact information. Be sure to proofread your card and then cut and paste it 10 times into the template. Your cards are now ready to print!

Business Card Template- MS Word

4) Turn in one sheet of your cards for a grade (with a rubric attached).

Business Ownership Students - Creating A Company Logo

2008-02-11T21:45:00.000-08:00

Creating a well-designed logo is one of the best ways a small business can enhance its image. A good logo adds a professional look to letterhead, business cards and marketing materials. It's important for your logo to be unique and appropriate to your business.

Click here to access the powerpoint presentation on "Creating A Logo" used in class.
Click here to access the handout provided on creating your company logo and tagline.
Click here to access the logo & tagline planning worksheet.
After completing your planning worksheet, continue on to create your final digital logo design. Submit the finished product with this logo grading rubric.

If you have any questions, see your instructor.

2008-02-11T13:26:00.000-08:00

Using Graphics in Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is not the best software to use for creating graphic design but because it is what we have access to, we will be exploring the tools available to use in creating your logo. You are certainly welcome to create your logo in another program (outside of class) but be sure to save it in a format that can be used with Word, since you will be working on your business plan elements in the classroom.

Read & take some brief notes on the following article:

Using Graphics In Word 2003
OR
Using Graphics In Word 2000

ASSESSMENT:
After taking some notes on the above article and/or your teacher’s class presentation, you should be able to complete the tasks outlined below. Go to a computer and begin this assessment activity. Call your teacher over to check your work (for credit), when you feel you are ready to demonstrate these skills.

· Insert a text box
· Insert an auto shape
· Change the color and style of the line
· Change the color of the fill
· Add another auto shape
· Demonstrate layering by showing how to move one to the front.
· Add text to one of your auto shapes
· Group the two shapes together as one

Business Ownership Students - Creating Your Company Description

2008-02-05T23:54:00.001-08:00

Business Ownership Students - Creating Your Company Description

2008-02-05T23:54:00.000-08:00

Creating Your Company Description

What is the Company Description Section of a Business Plan?

The company description section of a business plan provides the reader with a brief overview of the business including the business name and other relevant information about the business. The company description section is usually placed near the beginning of the business plan to establish a framework for the reader.

What’s Included in the Company Description?
The Company Description section of a business plan usually includes the following components:
1. The company name
2. A general summary of the business
3. A declaration of a business form of ownership. Will the business be operated as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation?
a. Resource: Selecting The Legal Structure For You Business
4. An industry classification for the business. What NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code applies to your business? Refer to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Web site (http://www.naics.com/search.htm) for assistance in answering this question.
5. The location of the business. In other words, where will the day-to-day operations of the business take place?
6. The year the business was formed
7. The primary function of the business. What are the main products or services provided by the business?
8. How many employees, if any, will be working for the company? What will their job titles be?
9. Who (if anyone) will be providing advice on legal, insurance, and accounting issues? These people are commonly referred to as “business advisors.”

Sample Company Description

I. Company Name
The legal business name is “Decker’s Digital Desktop.”
II. Business Summary
Decker’s Digital Desktop is a desktop publishing business established to provide local area businesses with desktop publishing services.
III. Form of Ownership
Decker’s Digital Desktop will operate as a sole proprietorship. The proprietor of the business is Shaun Decker, the owner.
IV. Industry Classifi cation
According to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), the industry
classification for a desktop publishing business is “Document Preparation Service.” The NAICS code number is 561410.
V. Location
Decker’s Digital Desktop will operate from the owner’s home residing at 123 Prescott
Avenue in Pleasant Landing, NY.
VI. Year Established
Decker’s Digital Desktop was established in 2006.
VII. Primary Function
The primary function of Decker’s Digital Desktop will be to provide area businesses with desktop publishing services in the form of both print and electronic documents.
VIII. Employees
Shaun Decker, the owner, will be the only employee of Decker’s Digital Desktop.
IX. Business Advisors
Jeff and Caroline Decker, the owner’s parents, will serve as business advisors to Decker’s Digital Desktop.

Making A Commercial Project

2008-02-04T22:34:00.000-08:00

You have been "hired" to create a commercial for a potential client! Utilize your creativity and all the knowledge you have acquired about broadcast media to create a promotional masterpiece! Below you will find some documents you will need to complete this project. Good luck!

Making A Commercial Project Expectations
This cover sheet explains what is required for this project and how many points everything is worth. It must be submitted with your completed project.

Making A Commercial Worksheet
This worksheet establishes the basic plan to complete this project including particulars about your client, target market, marketing objectives, advertising team and timeline. This is the first step in completing this project.

Commercial Storyboard Form
Commercial Script Copy Form
These two forms will need to be word processed and included in your completed project.

Commercial Checklist
This checklist will help you to evaluate your commercial to be sure it is top quality and meets your marketing objectives.

You can also click here to access the powerpoint presentation on "Broadcast Media" used in class.

Marketing Students-Super Bowl Commercial Journal

2008-01-31T00:14:00.000-08:00

Watch at least 1/2 hour of the Super Bowl and complete the Super Bowl Commercial Journal. Access this info on Advertising Strategies to help you identify key strategies used in the commercials.

Business Ownership Students- Selecting A Name For Your Business

2008-01-30T23:33:00.000-08:00

Read this article : “How To Create A Great Business Name” Retain notes for future notebook check.

Brainstorm several names. Research the availability of each name using the United States Patent and Trademark Office Web site.

Discuss with friends and family and gather feedback on the name(s) you are considering.
Visit the Alameda County Clerk Recorder’s Fictitious Business Name Search Online & research to see if the name you have chosen is available.

You will likely want to establish some form of web presence. Check online to see if the domain name you want is available. You can use AT & T Yahoo! Domains.

FILING A DBA
Now that you've decided upon a name, do you need to file a DBA? If you're structuring your company as a sole proprietorship or a partnership, a dba ("doing business as") or fictitious business name allows you to legally do business under your new business name (rather than your own name). You may be required by the county, city or state to register your fictitious name.

Click here to complete a DBA form for Alameda County. You only need to print page 5 (instructions for filing, for your reference) and page 1 (as pages 2-4 are merely copies for various parties, if you were to actually file this form.) Title and number it accordingly and retain this for a future notebook check.

Flight Info - State DECA Conference

2008-01-21T16:05:00.000-08:00

Here is the flight info for the State Conference. Book immediately to ensure your spot & fare (as quoted).

Flight Information

CAMB DECA Scholarship

2008-01-17T13:14:00.000-08:00

DECA Members,

Take advantage of the California Association of Mortgage Brokers Scholarship. Eight $1000 scholarships & three $5000 scholarships will be awarded at the State DECA Career Development Conference in March. Apply today! The deadline is February 18th. Be sure you don't wait to the last minute and give your advisor advance notice for your letter of recommendation.

Click here to download the application.

Good luck!

State DECA Conference Student Packet

2008-01-16T07:54:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Foothill DECA! We had a great Nor Cal Conference (pictures will follow). Now we need to press on in preparation for the State Conference in March! Details are provided in the student packet linked below. Flight information will follow. Act quickly to ensure your spot! All registration forms and money will be due Thursday 1/31. If you need any additional details, see your teacher.

Foothill State DECA Conference Student Packet

DECA Prep Mini - Unit: Product Service Management

2008-01-09T10:46:00.000-08:00

DECA Prep Mini Unit Unit 10
Instructional Area: Product Service Management
Textbook Reference: Pages 630-693
Introduction:
This unit is a general introduction to product planning and management concepts. In Marketing Essentials chapters 30, 31 & 32, you learn about product planning, product development, and the product mix. You also learn about branding, packaging, warranties, and other extended product features.

Product planning can make sure that a business sells products that customers really want, and that the products have extended features that make them even more attractive.

Key Terms: product planning, product mix, product line, product item, product width, product depth, product modification, product life cycle, positioning, brand, trademark, national brands, private brands, generic brands, package, label, warranty, disclaimer, credit

Assessment Activity:
In response to the development of a market for ecologically sound products, manufacturers are designing products that are safe for the environment, or they are adapting current products to fit the green market.

Choose a company that interests you, describe its current product line, and suggest ways one or several products can be modified to be environmentally friendly. Finally, explain how the product modifications you are suggesting would affect the companys’s marketing strategies.

Extension Activity (optional; can be submitted for extra credit):

All found at www.glencoe.com

Chapter 30 Practice Quizzes E-Flash cards Interactive Tutor

Chapter 31 Practice Quizzes E-Flash cards Interactive Tutor

Chapter 32 Practice Quizzes E-Flash cards Interactive Tutor

DECA Prep Mini Unit - Distribution

2008-01-08T00:41:00.001-08:00

DECA Prep Mini Unit Unit 7
Instructional Area: Distribution
Textbook Reference: Pages 440-521

Overview: This unit covers distribution. In Marketing Essentials chapters 21-24, we learn about channels of distribution, physical distribution, purchasing, stock handling, and inventory control.

Imagine your busniess manufactures the best cell phone on the planet, but if the phone never makes its way to a store, kiosk, or even just a website, not many people will be buying it. Distribution is the key to making sure that a product is where people want it, when people want it.

Key Terms: channel of distribution, intermediaries, wholesalers, retailers, etailing, direct distribution, indirect distribution, exclusive distribution, integrated distribution, selective distribution, intensive distribution, physical distribution, transportation, storage, wholesale/retail buyers, inventory, inventory management, JIT (just-in-time inventory system), SKU (stockkeeping unit)
Key Concepts:

Assessment Activity: Using the scenario below, prepare an outline that you would use if you were going to be training a new assistant manager on how businesses use channels of distribution.

Case study scenario: You are the manager of an independent toy store. The store carries high quality, fairly expensive toys for all ages. The store is best known for its selection of dolls,which range from sturdy dolls for toddlers to fragile collectibles. You recently hired an assistant manager, whom you are training. The topic for today’s trainin is channels of distribution. On a separate piece of paper, explain what channels of distribution are and the purposes they achieve. Then, explain the difference between direct channels of distribution and indirect channels of distribution. Complete your training by naming the members of each type of channel of distribution.

Extension Activities (optional; can be submitted for extra credit):

All found at http://www.glencoe.com/

Chapter 21
Practice Quizzes
E-Flash cards
Interactive Tutor

Chapter 22
Practice Quizzes
E-Flash cards
Interactive Tutor

Chapter 23
Practice Quizzes
E-Flash cards
Interactive Tutor

Chapter 24
Practice Quizzes
E-Flash cards
Interactive Tutor

DECA Prep Mini Unit - Promotion

2008-01-05T20:07:00.000-08:00

Unit 6
Instructional Area: Promotion
Textbook Reference: Pages 358-439
Overview: This unit is about promotion and promotional strategies. Businesses spend a lot of time and money on promotion because it is a time-tested way to get consumers interested in a product or service. Many businesses make their profits by providing the time, the place, or the substance of promotion, from ad agencies to TV stations to billboard companies.

Key Terms: promotion, product promotion, institutional promotion, advertising, direct marketing, sales promotion, public relations, press release, promotional mix, promotional tie-in, product placement, loyalty marketing programs, point-of-purchase displays, visual merchandising, artistic elements (to include line, shape, direction, texture, proportion, motion and lighting), complementary colors, triadic color scheme, media, print media, broadcast media, specialty media, media measurement terms (to include audience, impression, frequency, CPM), headline, copy, illustration, clip art, signature, slogan, ad layout, advertising proof

Key Concepts: promotional mix, product placement, advertising campaign

Goals of promotional activities are summarized by the phrase AIDA
Attract Attention
Build Interest and Desire
Ask for Action

Steps to plan an integrated advertising campaign
1. Identify target audience
2. Determine objectives
3. Establish the budget
4. Develop the message
5. Select the media
Evaluate the campaign

Assessment Activity:
1. Come up with an acronym/rhyme to help you to remember the steps to plan an integrated advertising campaign.
2. Illustrate your understanding of the concept of promotional mix by creating a promotional plan to promote a Saturday festival (pet adoption in the park) put on by a local non-profit pet and rescue organization. Keeping in mind the limited resources available to non-profits, how can they promote this event without spending a lot of money?

Extension Activities (optional; can be submitted for extra credit):

All found at http://www.glencoe.com/

Unit 6
Practice Quizzes, Interactive Tutor, E-flash cards – Chapters 17-20

DECA Prep Mini Unit - Selling

2008-01-05T19:37:00.000-08:00

DECA Prep Mini Unit 5
Instructional Area: Selling
Textbook Reference: Pages 256-356

Key Terms: personal selling, rationale motive, emotional motive, product feature, customer benefit, prospect, referral, endless chain method, objection analysis sheet, CRM, COD, UPC, POS, FOB, PO
Key Concepts: feature-benefit selling, steps of the sale, methods of approach, methods for determining needs, techniques for an effective product presentation, five buying decisions on which common objections are based, four-step process for handling objections, methods for handling objections, rules and methods for closing the sale, rules for effective suggestion selling, strategies for maintaining and building clientele

Assessment Activity:
Come up with an acronym/rhyme to help you to remember the seven steps of the sale.

Approach the customer
Determining needs
Presenting the product
Overcoming objections
Closing the sale
Suggestion selling
Relationship building
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Create a feature/benefit chart (page 262), as well as an objection analysis sheet (page 302) for a product of your choice.

Extension Activities (optional; can be submitted for extra credit):

All found at http://www.glencoe.com/

Unit 5 Selling
Practice Quizzes, Interactive Tutor, E-flash cards – Chapters 12-16

DECA Prep Mini Unit - Economics

2008-01-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

DECA Prep Mini Unit
Units 2 & 3
Instructional Area: Economics

Textbook Reference: Pages 48-147

Key Terms: economy, resources, factors of production, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, scarcity, traditional economy, market economy, command economy, capital, GDP, GNP, inflation, business cycle, expansion, recession, depression, recovery, import, export, balance of trade, trade barrier, competition, price competition, non-price competition, monopoly, nonprofit, business risk, profit, supply, demand

Key Concepts: concept of scarcity, factors of production, characteristics of a free enterprise system, distinguish between price and non-price competition, explain the theory of supply and demand

Assessment Activity:
Complete the Review Facts & Ideas questions 21-25 on page 69, questions 11-16 on page 119 and questions 16 & 20 on page 143.

Extension Activity (optional; can be submitted for extra credit):

All found at http://www.glencoe.com/

Chapter 3 E-Flash Cards
Interactive Tutor: Concentration Game
Practice Quiz

Chapter 4 E-Flash Cards
Interactive Tutor: Crossword Puzzle
Practice Quiz

Chapter 5 E-Flash Cards
Interactive Tutor: Concentration Game
Practice Quiz

Chapter 6 E-Flash Cards
Interactive Tutor: Crossword Puzzle
Practice Quiz

DECA Prep Mini Unit -Marketing

2008-01-05T18:27:00.000-08:00

DECA Prep Mini Unit

Unit 1
Instructional Area: Marketing
Textbook Reference: Pages 1-47

Introduction:
This unit is a general introduction to marketing and some of its most basic concepts. In Marketing Essentials chapters 1 & 2, you learned about the value added by marketing, customer relationship management, and the difference between consumer and industrial markets.

Marketing is found in every type of business enterprise. It is an important, non-stop process involving research, analysis, and decision making. It can make the difference between success and failure. Many job opportunities are available in this broad field.

Key Terms: marketing, goods, services, marketing concept, utility, market, consumer market, industrial market, market share, target market, customer profile, marketing mix, SWOT analysis, market segmentation, demographics, geopgraphics, pyschographics, disposable income, discretionary income, mass marketing, marketing strategy

Key Concepts: functions of marketing, marketing concept, benefits of marketing, economic concept of utility, components of the marketing mix, SWOT analysis, basic elements of a marketing plan, market segmentation

Assessment Activity:
Complete the Review Facts & Ideas questions 11-19 on page 21 and 8-15 on page 43.

Extension Activities(optional; can be submitted for extra credit):

All found at http://www.glencoe.com/

Chapter 1 E-Flash Cards
Interactive Tutor: Concentration Game
Practice Quiz

Chapter 2 E-Flash Cards
Interactive Tutor: Crossword Puzzle

Practice Quiz

Connecting To Careers

2008-01-05T18:18:00.000-08:00

Connecting to Careers

In the beginning of the year, we did some work with http://www.cacareerzone.org/. You took an interest profile to help you discover what your interests are, and how they relate to the world of work. This helps you decide what kinds of occupations and jobs you might want to explore based on your personal preferences. Recall back to your areas of interest and determine which of the following industry clusters is most closely associated with your findings.

DECA Career Clusters
· Business, Administration and Management
· Marketing, Sales and Service
· Finance
· Hospitality and Tourism
· Entrepreneurship

The career cluster that I have selected is:

The next step is to see how your career cluster choice parallels the DECA competitive event categories. Select one that suits you based on the chart found at this web address → http://www.deca.org/pdf/crosswalk.pdf You may wish to print this chart for future reference.

Note: Unless you are competing in a written project, it is recommended that you select either a Individual Series Event or a Management Team Decision Making Event for the purpose of this activity.

The DECA competitive event category I have chosen to explore is:

Next, you will visit the DECA competitive event listing on the DECA website found at → http://deca.org/celisting.html

Click on the event category you have selected and do the following:
· Print the event guidelines.
· Print a sample event (role play). You will then use this as a practice and your teacher (or other judge) will use the evaluation form to assess you.
· Review the performance indicators and complete the worksheet on the next page. Note: It is not necessary to print these pages, but if you are competing and wish to use them to study, you may.
· Take a practice exam (found on many of the desktops in the classroom) and print your results.
· Read the article “Get An Edge in Competitive Events” and use it to complete the worksheet on the next page. Article found at → http://www.deca.org/pdf/ceprepstudent.pdf
Using your event’s performance indicators complete this section of the worksheet.
Identify at least 5 different performance indicators in a variety of instructional areas.

Event Category: _________________________________________________________

Instructional area: _______________________________________________________ Performance element: ____________________________________________________
Performance indicator: ___________________________________________________

Instructional area: _______________________________________________________ Performance element: ____________________________________________________
Performance indicator: ___________________________________________________

Instructional area: _______________________________________________________ Performance element: ____________________________________________________
Performance indicator: ___________________________________________________

Instructional area: _______________________________________________________ Performance element: ____________________________________________________
Performance indicator: ___________________________________________________

Instructional area: _______________________________________________________ Performance element: ____________________________________________________
Performance indicator: ___________________________________________________

In reference to the article “Get An Edge in Competitive Events”, answer these questions.

1. What are two things you can do before the conference to help you prepare for competition?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2. When you are competing, what are two things you should do before the event?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
3. While you are competing, what three things should you remember?
__________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Creating A Logo - Part 1 (Business Ownership Students)

2007-12-19T12:52:00.000-08:00

Creating A Logo – Part 1
Use of Color in Graphic Design

As we begin to develop ideas for our businesses, one of the first things we will do is create a company logo. A logo (or signature) is the distinctive identification symbol for a business. A well-designed logo gets instant recognition for the business. No business plan or marketing materials are complete without it.

There are many considerations to be made when creating your company logo, but the first thing we will explore is the use of color and its impact in terms of our marketing efforts.

Step 1: Watch the video “Color In Everyday Life” & take notes.
These notes will be added to your assignment log and checked on the next notebook check.
.
Step 2:
Click on the link below to see the Color Wheel. You may find it helpful to print a copy for your binder.
Color Wheel & Simple Color Theory

Step 3:
Read the following articles and take some brief notes. These notes will be added to your assignment log and checked on the next notebook check.

Business & Marketing - Who Owns The Hue?
Why Color Matters
Color Psychology & Marketing

Textbook Scavenger Hunt

2007-10-25T19:15:00.001-07:00

Get to know your new textbook by doing the textbook scavenger hunt that coordinates with your book. Links are below.

Marketing Essentials

Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management

Online Version of Marketing Essentials

2007-10-25T19:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome Marketing Students to the FHS DECA Blog! This site will used often during the course of the year to convey information that supports our curriculum, as well as keep you up to date on the success of our Foothill DECA chapter!

This first blog entry relates to the use of the online student edition of our textbook. We have a set of textbooks for use in the classroom but this online tool will be valuable for you to use at home. In order to use this tool, you must have the most recent version of Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not, you may download it for free at www.adobe.com.

Click on this link to access the online textbook.
The access code is: B3B54BB786

You may also access online learning tools such as study organizers, review games, and much more at:
Glencoe's Marketing Essentials Online Learning Tools

New Resume Tips & Resources!

2007-10-13T13:11:00.000-07:00

Ok, well, after reviewing the first drafts of the resumes, it appears that we still have some work to do :). Overall, some areas that needed improvement were:
a) Format and appearance of the resume
b) Job Objective
c) Highlighting Skills and/or Experience

Click here for a great resource to help you strenghten the weaker areas of your resume.

I would like you to review both the section on creating a resume for a current afterschool job, as well as a career position. You can do this by clicking on the "students/jobseekers" tab (on the left) and then navigating through both current afterschool/career position options. Please explore the sections on objectives, skills & experience, work history, as well as "resume action verbs" (found on the left).

When you rewrite your resume, you might consider using the heading "summary of qualifications" or "relevant skills and experience", in lieu of (or in addition to your employment information). Be sure to refer to the "bullet bank" (in the section on "identifying your skills" in the afterschool job resume portion) found in the internet resource above. Remember to also include volunteer work under job experience, particularly if you have no paid job experience.

I hope this helps. :) Back to the drawing board!

Conference Forms

2007-10-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

These forms must be on file for you to participate at any DECA function. The following two need only be done once a year.

DECA code of conduct

Foothill Conference Rules & Etiquette

The following form is used to determine your conference eligibility (attendance/grades etc) and must be submitted 2 weeks prior to each conference.

Grade/Attendance Check

DECA Week!

2007-09-26T20:53:00.000-07:00

DECA Week at Foothill is October 22-26th!
This is a great time to come together as a team and really promote the benefits of being in this great organization! It has been decided that each class will be responsible for one activity during DECA week. Below you will find many resources as you begin to work with your class leaders to plan your project. See your teacher for support and clarification as you begin to plan. Have fun!

DECA Week Class Assignment Overview

DECA Week Ideas Handout (handed out and discussed in class)

DECA Week Action Plan

DECA Week CAPE Narrative

DECA Week Group Performance Rating

Fundraiser Profit & Loss

Membership Campaign Overview

Membership Campaign/DECA Week Ideas

Membership Campaign Guidelines
(These guidelines will dictate how we document our activities to receive credit for this special recognition. If you are responsible for the Civic Conciousness point of the diamond, please read carefully the new "DECA Serve Day" criteria).

All DECA week work must be submitted by no later than Wednesday October 31st.

Resume Resources

2007-09-24T20:45:00.000-07:00

Below you will find many resources to assist you in creating a resume for your portfolio.

Resumes Powerpoint This is the powerpoint presentation that was given in class. The notes will be collected as part of the notebook check.

Resume (planning) Worksheet This is a tool in pre-planning what you want in your resume. It will be collected as part of the notebook check.

Microsoft Resume Templates

Sample Teen Resume

Great Article On Resume Rules & Advice by CSU Chico's Career Center

Resume Critique Worksheet This is a tool to help your peer edit a resume for a classmate. It will be collected as part of the notebook check.

Creating A Business Card

2007-09-23T23:41:00.000-07:00

Overview: During this lesson you will create a personal business card that contains a digital photograph of yourself, a logo or graphic, and a "motto" or quote to live by. You will also be encouraged to apply design concepts and color theory to your business card based on its intended audience.

Instructions:1) Have another student take your picture.2) Save the digital photos to either a flash drive, an email account or a folder on the server. DO NOT save to the hard drive. OPTIONAL – You can digitally manipulate and or enhance your photo using a paint or photo editing software program.3) Create a personal logo using clip art from a simple word-processing program (or a more advanced desktop publishing software program, if you desire). 4) Select a favorite saying or motto to include on your business card. See the quote web sites below.
Motivational Quotes
BrainyQuote
5) Sketch a design of the idea for your business card and answer the questions, using the format below.

Planning Tool for Business Card

By completing this worksheet, you will begin to make important decisions about how you want your card to look. Think about who (the audience) you will be giving your business cards to and what colors/fonts/graphics would be appropriate for them.
6) Once you have your plan in place, create your business cards based on your design (above). You can use the business card template file below or set up your own file in your word processor or paint program.
Create one complete card that includes your name, contact information, photo, logo and quote. Be sure to proofread your card and then cut and paste it 10 times into the template. Your cards are now ready to print!

Business Card Template- MS Word
7) Turn in one sheet of your cards for a grade (with a rubric attached).

Creating Your Portfolio

2007-09-23T23:35:00.000-07:00

Below are some resources we will use in class to help you create your portfolio.

Introduction to Portfolios - Powerpoint Presentation

Introduction to Portfolios - Student Notes Handout

Portfolio Checklist

Portfolio Evaluation

Online Grades Available

2007-09-19T09:48:00.000-07:00

To access Mrs. Raaker's online grades, click below and follow the intructions.

Mrs. Raaker's online grades

DECA Sponsor Letters

2007-09-12T23:43:00.000-07:00

Prospect List Worksheet

Sponsor Letter -Male

Sponsor Letter -Female

Management Team Resources

2007-09-11T22:40:00.000-07:00

As discussed in the management team meeting, here are some resources to help you complete your assigned task.

Meeting Agenda/Minutes Template

Officer Weekly Task Sheet

Go Green Campaign Info

Ted!

Communications Challenge

Membership Campaign/DECA Week
New for DECA Week is the addition of DECA Serve Day. This is a day during DECA Week, chosen by the chapter to concentrate its efforts on local or global community service projects. Imagine the impact of nearly 5000 DECA chapters all doing community service projects during the same week! Whether you are raising money for MDA, collecting food for a local food bank, sending Beanie Babies to children overseas or working on another service project, DECA Serve Day puts DECA at the forefront of the national effort to include community service as a part of all curriculums.

07-08 Chapter Awards Program Guidelines

Helpful hints to creating your POW

Action Plan Template

Project Profit & Loss Form

DECA Presidential Online Chat

2007-09-11T22:33:00.000-07:00

The presidential council has already had it's first on-line meeting, with
many more to follow. To register your chapter, please have your president (or the appointee in the interim) send their contact information to Amanda Parks (state president) at
cadecaamanda@gmail.com Explain to her that we have not yet selected a president.

Conducting Effective Meetings

2007-09-11T22:18:00.000-07:00

Click on the links provided here for the powerpoint presentation on "Conducting Effective Meetings" along with the notes handout and the meeting template.

DECA Resources

2007-09-11T22:15:00.000-07:00

Learn how to access the online membership processing: www.deca.org/membershipprocessing.html
What is the Membership Campaign/DECA Week fuss all about? Find out here: www.deca.org/membershipcampaign.html
See what other chapters have done for DECA Week activities: www.deca.org/campaignactivities.html
Get your easy-to-use, copy-and-paste recruitment brochure materials at: www.deca.org/recruitmentmaterial.html
See happy Membership Recognition winners at the gateway to Awards Programs: www.deca.org/membershiprecogoverview.html

Intro To DECA Quiz Presentation

2007-09-06T17:30:00.000-07:00

Below is a link for the key to the Intro to DECA powerpoint presentation handout. I hope this is a helpful refresher as you prepare for the quiz.

Intro to DECA student handout KEY

Powerpoint Presentations - Week 9/3-9/7

2007-09-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

Click on the links below to access the powerpoints presentations presented this week

Why Teams Underachieve

Management Styles

Dealing With Difficult People

DECA Conference Registration

2007-09-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

We are pleased that you have expressed an interest in one (or both) of the upcoming conferences. At these conferences, students will be participating in a variety of exciting workshops that will provide a unique educational opportunity. Please click the link below to download a student registration packet. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at traaker@pleasanton.k12.ca.us or call me in the classroom at (925)461-0425. Welcome to DECA!

Click below for student registration packets:

2007 Leadership Development Academy (San Ramon)

2007 DECA NY Experience Marketing & Merchandising Conference (New York)

2007-2008 DECA Officer Application

2007-09-03T11:33:00.000-07:00

Do you have what it takes to lead our team to the top?! Initiative? Attitude? Commitment? Enthusiasm? Click on the link below to download your application. Please provide as much information as possible. Be sure to indicate your officer preference but remember that we will not make any final decisions until October 1st. Applications are due by Friday September 7th. We hope to announce our leadership team by September 10th.

Click here for the DECA Officer Application

Intro To DECA Quiz Review

2007-09-02T00:05:00.000-07:00

Click on this link for the Intro To DECA Quiz review questions. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your teacher before the quiz.

Writing The Executive Summary

2007-05-10T07:11:00.001-07:00

Step 1:Read the information below and Chapter 14 in the BPPW. Take brief notes and complete the Reading Review on page 220. This should be titled "Creating An Executive Summary- Notes & Reading Review" and turned in. It will be worth 10 points. Title and number this assignment and retain this for a future notebook check.

WRITING THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Executive summaries are much like other summaries in that their main goal is to provide a condensed version of a longer report's content. The key difference, however, is that executive summaries are written for someone who most likely DOES NOT have time to read the original. An executive summary seeks to let the reader in on what the real significance of the report is--what is the reader expected to respond to? The reader is usually a decision maker who will have the responsibility of deciding on some issue(s) related to the report. The executive summary must be written with this need in mind.
The executive summary is usually no longer than 10% of the original document. It can be anywhere from 1-10 pages long, depending on the report's length. For the purpose of this project, your executive summary should be no longer than one page. It is a self-contained, stand-alone document. Accuracy is essential because decisions will be made based on your summary, by people who may have not read the entire content of your report.

Functions of an Executive Summary

Gives readers a summary of the essential contents of your document.

Previews the main points of your document enabling readers to build a mental framework for organizing and understanding the detailed information in your document.

Helps readers determine the key results and recommendations reported in your document.

Processes for Writing an Executive Summary
Executive summaries are typically written for longer reports. They should not be written until after your research is finished. Before writing your summary, try to:

Scan your research to determine what the content, structure and length of the report would be.

Highlight key points; determine purpose/central theme of the report.

Review your research and determine what the key ideas or concepts are.

Group ideas in a logical fashion and prepare a point form outline of the summary.

Edit the outline to eliminate secondary or minor points; use your judgement to keeping the summary concise.

Determine whether subtitles, bullets, selective bolding or some other type of organizational structure will add to the clarity of your summary.

Write the summary in your own words, using a professional style.

Questions to Ask Yourself as You Write
1.What is your report about?

2.Why is it important?

3.What is included in the report?

4.What is included in each report?

Concise Statement of your Findings
As a cover sheet to a document, an executive summary need not go into ANY mention of how you conducted your analysis and/or what you're basing your conclusion(s) on. Instead, begin with a concise statement of the conclusion(s) you reached after conducting your analysis and/or research in the paper that would normally be attached. How you word the conclusion will differ depending on your audience and what they care most about. The wording must change given an audience's needs.

Your executive summary should be concise and visually appealing. To accomplish this, it is a good idea to use:

subheadings for major sections
white space between sections
bullets for key points

Step 2:

Using the worksheets on pages 215-217in the BPPW, as a guide, complete a word-processed executive summary. Print two copies. One will go in your notebook as today's assignment and the other will go with your finished plan. Title and number this assignment and retain this for a future notebook check.

Putting It Together!

2007-05-10T07:11:00.000-07:00

Putting The Business Plan Together

Now it is time to work backwards a bit and start putting your business plan together. So far, you have created a company logo (and business card), as well as drafts for all sections. When you get all of your final drafts back, look over them to make any additional changes. Assembly all sections in the proper order. DO NOT put any work in your final project that has teacher notes on it. Make revisions prior to assembling it.

Each section will be numbered (and included on a table of contents.) For example, the first two sections should be titled and numbered as follows:
I. Management Team Plan
II. Company Description

You should also create your cover page. On the cover page you should have your logo, the name of your company, its address and phone number, and the chief executive's name. That may seem obvious, but it's amazing how many business plans don't have a cover page or have an incomplete one. Nothing will turn off a banker or investor faster than having to look up your telephone number in the phone book because you left it off the cover page. Moreover, if the plan is going to be distributed to several bankers or investors, you will want to number each plan prominently on the cover page -- to allow you to track the plans and to inhibit recipients from copying or widely passing around the plan. You may also have recipients sign a nondisclosure statement, if you wish.

You have done a lot of work on this project. Now it's time to put it all together. Be diligent. Work hard to make each section the best it can be so that the final project really reflects all your time and effort.

Creating Your Company Financial Plan – Part 2

2007-05-01T09:52:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Company Financial Plan – Part 2

Nearly everyone who has ever started a business has underestimated the costs, and then faced the danger of running with inadequate capital reserves. The key to avoiding this pitfall is to adopt a rigorous approach to your research and planning. You may obtain a Startup Expenses Spreadsheet Template from your teacher, that you can use to lead you through the process. Follow the directions on the right hand side of the spreadsheet. Delete the directions box prior to printing. Some of your data will have to be educated guesses, particularly in light of the fact that most of your businesses are start-ups and no records are available to work from. Do your research and use your best predictions for your start-up expenses. It is likely that you will need to also include a narrative to explain your financial plan and to ensure that you meet all of the objectives (as outlined below).

Before your begin to write your financial plan, read Chapter 19 (both sections) in the Entrepreneurship Textbook and take notes. Title and number these notes accordingly and retaim them for a future notebook check.

Objectives:

Explain the assumptions on which all financial decisions are based.
Prepare a statement of sources and uses of funds that tells potential lenders and investors how much money is needed to start the business and how the money will be spent.

Creating Your Company Financial Plan – Part 1

2007-05-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Company Financial Plan – Part 1

A large number of small businesses fail each year. There are a number of reasons for these failures but one of the main reasons is insufficient funds. Too many entrepreneurs try to start and operate a business without sufficient capital (money). To avoid this dilemma you can review your situation by analyzing these three questions:
How much money do you have?
How much money will you need to start your business?
How much money will you need to stay in business?

Read the following article, take notes and retain them for a future notebook check.
Cha$Ching- Money Matters!

Business Ownership Students - Create A Marketing Plan (Promotional Campaign) - Part 4

2007-04-12T17:41:00.000-07:00

The following steps will help you write your marketing plan/promotional campaign for your business plan.

Developing A Promotional Campaign

Before you begin this task, read the following articles (linked on the blogspot) and take notes (for a future notebook check).
Making An Effective Marketing Plan
Making An Effective Marketing Plan – Part 2

Step 1: Establish Your Promotional Objectives
What are you trying to accomplish with your marketing efforts? These should relate to what are called SMART targets - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time related. This ensures that there is a focus to the campaign and that all involved know exactly what they are supposed to be doing and where they are going.
Refer to the following information about "Marketing Strategies" or your notes on this topic, taken from a previous notebook check.

Step 2: Determine Your Customer Profile
Who is the campaign aimed at? This will involve identifying who the target market is going to be and this, in turn, may be related to the market segment/s that the business is focusing on. A market segment is a group of people with similar characteristics that may influence spending on the business's products. A market segment might be related to gender, age grouping, occupation, leisure pursuit, lifestyle, house type and so on. This will help to ensure that the campaign gets to the people who are most likely to benefit from it and buy the product/service concerned. Be sure to outline your customer profile in terms of demographic, geographic and psychographic characteristics.

Step 3: Create Your Marketing Concept
What is the message? A promotional campaign is designed to try to make customers more aware of a product, brand or service. Getting the right message across is therefore important and as such making sure the message is clear and unambiguous is vital. The message may determine the type of promotional media used - TV, radio, internet and so on. It will be the central theme of your campaign, to which all promotional efforts will be tied.

Step 4: Determine Your Promotional Mix
How will you get the message to your target audience? There are five basic categories in the promotional mix (personal selling, advertising, direct marketing, sales promotion, and public relations) and each plays a vital role in promoting businesses and their products. Most businesses use more than one type of promotion to achieve their promotional goals. All promotional elements must be coordinated.

Media planning is the process of selecting the advertising media and deciding the time or space in which ads should appear to accomplish a marketing objective. To establish a media plan and select the right medium to use, advertisers address three basic questions:
1) Can the medium present the product and the appropriate business image?
2) Can the desired customers be targeted with the medium?
3) Will the medium get the desired response?

Step 5: Establish A Promotional Timeline
What is the time frame? When the campaign is scheduled to run, for how long and the long term plans need to be considered. In some cases, a campaign might initially run for four weeks and then be 'rested' to return after a few months - possibly in a different format. The time of year might be relevant. The opening of a new venue might be a time of fevered activity and then subsequent campaigns might be needed as specific events take place. A lot will depend on the nature of your company and the objectives your team has established.

Step 6: Establish A Promotional Budget
You will need to determine the actual cost of the promotional decisions made in steps 4 & 5. You may use this Microsoft Word Advertising Budget Template, if you find it helpful. Be sure to read this article before you begin - Creating Your Advertising Budget. Title & number this assignment and retain for a future notebook check.

Step 7: Create Marketing Materials
(Note: These materials will be graded as stand-alone items and will not be part of the marketing plan section of your business plan. They can, however, be included in the appendix to provide samples of your marketing ideas.)

Marketing materials are the tools used to promote your business/product. Careful consideration must be given as these valuable pieces are created. Remember, all of your marketing materials must be in line with your promotional objectives, be suitable for your target audience and be coordinated with the entire promotional campaign.

Here is your chance for your team to get really creative! Based on the promotional mix (selected in Step 4), create (minimally) 2 samples of your marketing efforts. These might include (but are not limited to): brochures, print ads, web page, commercial, flyer, direct mail, coupon etc.

Remember, all marketing materials should be coordinated and tied to the concept created in Step 3.

Before you begin creating your marketing materials, read these articles (linked on fhsdeca.blogspot.com) & take notes (for a future notebook check).
Creating Sales Tools That Build Brand
What Not To Do When Designing Marketing Pieces

Creating Your Marketing Plan – Part 3

2007-04-12T17:39:00.001-07:00

For the purpose of your business plan project, the marketing plan will focus primarily on your promotional campaign and will include:
· Marketing objective(s)
· Promotional mix (combination of promotional elements to include personal selling, advertising, sales promotion, direct marketing and public relations)
· Marketing Implementation –timeline for activities/responsibilities
· Marketing budget

Web resources:
While many of you may find the following tool to be overwhelming, some of you may find it be helpful. It is a very comprehensive look at “How To…A Guide To Writing A Marketing Plan”.
Promotional Plan Grading Rubric

Marketing - Unit 6 Promotions Project

2007-04-12T14:18:00.000-07:00

Developing A Promotional Campaign
Unit 6 Promotions – Final Project
Worth 400 Points

Your task for this final project will be to create a promotional campaign for a product or your choice. You may choose a team (of no more than 3) to work together, if you choose. This project should demonstrate the knowledge/skills acquired from your study in the area of promotion (Chapters 17-20).

Before you begin this project, read the following articles (linked on the blogspot) and take notes (for a future notebook check).
Making An Effective Marketing Plan
Making An Effective Marketing Plan – Part 2

Step 1: Select Client/Product
Decide on a company & a product that you would like to represent with your advertising campaign. It is helpful to pick a local business (for the purpose of research) and even more beneficial if you choose a company that is willing to partner with you in this project.
Client/Product Description - Create a brief overview telling us who your client is and the product you have chosen to create your campaign for. This should be should be read to the group before you begin your presentation.

Step 2: Establish Your Promotional Objectives
These should relate to what are called SMART targets - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time related. This ensures that there is a focus to the campaign and that all involved know exactly what they are supposed to be doing and where they are going.

Read the following information about "Marketing Strategies" and take notes for a future notebook check.

Step 3: Determine Your Customer Profile
Who is the campaign aimed at? This will involve identifying who the target market is going to be and this, in turn, may be related to the market segment/s that the business is focusing on. A market segment is a group of people with similar characteristics that may influence spending on the business's products. A market segment might be related to gender, age grouping, occupation, leisure pursuit, lifestyle, house type and so on. This will help to ensure that the campaign gets to the people who are most likely to benefit from it and buy the product/service concerned. Be sure to outline your customer profile in terms of demographic, geographic and psychographic characteristics.

Step 4: Create Your Marketing Concept
What is the message? A promotional campaign is designed to try to make customers more aware of a product, brand or service. Getting the right message across is therefore important and as such making sure the message is clear and unambiguous is vital. The message may determine the type of promotional media used - TV, radio, internet and so on. It will be the central theme of your campaign, to which all promotional efforts will be tied.

Step 5: Determine Your Promotional Mix
How will you get the message to your target audience? There are five basic categories in the promotional mix (personal selling, advertising, direct marketing, sales promotion, and public relations) and each plays a vital role in promoting businesses and their products. Most businesses use more than one type of promotion to achieve their promotional goals. All promotional elements must be coordinated.

Media planning is the process of selecting the advertising media and deciding the time or space in which ads should appear to accomplish a marketing objective. To establish a media plan and select the right medium to use, advertisers address three basic questions:
1) Can the medium present the product and the appropriate business image?
2) Can the desired customers be targeted with the medium?
3) Will the medium get the desired response?

Step 6: Establish A Promotional Timeline
What is the time frame? When the campaign is scheduled to run, for how long and the long term plans need to be considered. In some cases, a campaign might initially run for four weeks and then be 'rested' to return after a few months - possibly in a different format. The time of year might be relevant. The opening of a new venue might be a time of fevered activity and then subsequent campaigns might be needed as specific events take place. A lot will depend on the nature of your company and the objectives your team has established.

Step 7: Create Marketing Materials
Marketing materials are the tools used to promote your business/product. Careful consideration must be given as these valuable pieces are created. Remember, all of your marketing materials must be in line with your promotional objectives, be suitable for your target audience and be coordinated with the entire promotional campaign.

Here is your chance for your team to get really creative! Based on the promotional mix (selected in Step 5), create (minimally) 2 samples of your marketing efforts. These might include (but are not limited to): brochures, print ads, web page, commercial, flyer, direct mail, coupon etc.

Remember, all marketing materials should be coordinated and tied to the concept created in Step 4.

Before you begin, read these articles (linked on fhsdeca.blogspot.com) & take notes (for a future notebook check).
Creating Sales Tools That Build Brand
What Not To Do When Designing Marketing Pieces

Step 8: Pitch Your Plan
The final step is to sell us on your ideas! Your team will make a presentation that includes: promotional objectives, customer profile, promotional concept, promotional mix/timeline, and samples of your marketing efforts.

Click here to review the grading criteria for this project

Creating Your Marketing Plan- Part 2

2007-04-03T17:44:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Marketing Plan- Part 2

A marketing plan is a plan used by a business to guide its marketing process to a desired conclusion.

For the purpose of your business plan project your marketing plan should include:

Marketing objective(s)
Promotional mix (combination of promotional elements to include personal selling, advertising, direct marketing, sales promotion and public relations)
Marketing Implementation –timeline for activities/responsibilities
Marketing budget

We are going to begin the challenge of writing this section of the business plan by tackling one piece at a time… let’s start by creating the marketing objective(s).

Step 1:
Read the following articles and take some brief notes.

Marketing Strategies
Marketing Message & Objective
Number & title this assignment and retain for a future notebook check.

Step 2:
Read the following information and add to the notes taken (above). Using your notes as a guide, you should begin to write your company marketing objectives.

Marketing objectives are what a business wants to accomplish through its marketing efforts. Objectives are defined as agreed intentions within a defined and agreed period to accomplish the company goals. Within your objectives you should look to state where you need to get to and in what timeframe; as well as having specific indicators to measure whether you are being successful or not.

Objectives should always be SMART:
SMART – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timed
Specific – Describe exactly what needs to be achieved
Measurable – Show how you will know that it has been achieved
Achievable – Confirm that the commitment and resources necessary to meet the objective are available
Realistic – Ensure that it is practical that the objective can be reached
Timed – Set out the timeframe by when the objective should be achieved

Example of a SMART objective:
Increase net profitable revenue for the professional services division by 15% between January 1st and December 31st, 2007

Every objective should help you achieve one or more of the following:

Retain existing profitable customer
Encourage customers to purchase more products or services from you
Encourage customers to make larger purchases than before
Capture a new market segment (win new customers)

Creating Your Marketing Plan – Part 1

2007-04-02T22:49:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Marketing Plan – Part 1

Objective: Students will write marketing plans that explain how their businesses will approach the marketing strategies of product, place, price and promotion.

Step 1:
Review Ch 10 The Marketing Plan in the Entrepreneurship Textbook & participate in Mrs. Raaker’s review lecture. You may click here to access the Powerpoint- Ch 10.1 Review/The Marketing Plan.
Complete found on pages 215 & 223. Title and number this assignment and retain for a future notebook check.

Essential Elements of Advertising

2007-04-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

As we begin to dig deeper into the world of advertising, it will be critical that you have a clear understanding of chapters 19 & 20. The concepts & terms explored here will serve as a foundation for future study.

Click below for the links to Mrs. Raakers Powerpoint presentations for each unit.
Chapter 19.1
Chapter 20.1

Creating Your Market Analysis/Industry Overview – Part 1

2007-03-25T21:07:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Market Analysis/Industry Overview – Part 1

This section of your business plan is your assessment of the customer groups you've targeted, other customer groups you might pursue, the competition, and an overview of the industry as a whole. Is the market growing, how fast is it growing, and what evidence do you have that it is interested in your product or service?

After completing this unit, you will create a Market Analysis/Industry Overview for your business plan. It should adhere to the following objectives.
Objectives:
1. Describe the industry, industry trends and factors influencing the trends.
2. Write a demographic, geographic and psychographic profile of the company’s target market.
3. Describe the historical growth, current market size, and the growth potential of the market.

Before you begin to write this section of the plan you must understand the concept of market analysis. To do this, begin by reading Chapter 6 in the Entrepreneurship textbook. Be sure to pay close attention to all key terms and concepts. Take notes on your reading. Title and number these notes accordingly and retain them for a future notebook check. As some of you may notice, this is a chapter we studied earlier in the year- if you saved your notes on them (as advised) you may use them for this assignment.

Click here to access Mrs. Raaker’s Ch 6 Power Point Presentation shown in class.

Creating Your Market Analysis/Industry Overview – Part 2

2007-03-25T21:01:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Market Analysis/Industry Overview – Part 2

Read the following articles. Take some notes, title/number accordingly and retain for a future notebook check.
How To Research Your Industry & Competition
Conducting A Market Analysis For Your Business Plan

Click here to access Mrs. Raaker’s powerpoint presentation on
“Using The Census 2000”

Web Resources:
www.business.gov
www.census.gov

Using your notes from the reading and some secondary research, you should now be able to write an industry overview (brief) and a market analysis for your business plan.

Objectives:
1. Describe the industry, industry trends and factors influencing the trends.
2. Write a demographic, geographic and psychographic profile of the company’s target market.
3. Describe the historical growth, current market size, and the growth potential of the market.

Click here to view samples of the market analysis/industry overview.

Click here to view the grading rubric for this section of your business plan.

Creating Your Product Service Plan – Part 3

2007-03-19T06:51:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Product Service Plan – Part 3

Now it is time to write the first draft of your product/service plan for your business plan project. Remember, this is the section of your plan that clearly defines the product(s) or service(s) you are offering. Your efforts must be clear, concise, and easy to follow. It is important that your plan provides compelling information on why your product/service is unique.

Take the information gathered in the (worksheet from the) previous step and use it to create your plan. If you word-processed a chart, you may be able to insert it into your plan. If you do include a chart, table or graph, be sure to include a narrative that ties it all together.

Click here to view some product/service plan samples.

Click here to view the grading rubric for this section. Carefully review the objectives of you plan before you begin.
Good luck!

Creating Your Product Service Plan – Part 2

2007-03-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Product Service Plan – Part 2

To help you prepare your product service plan, read the following helpful articles and take notes to be used for future reference.

Writing Your Product or Service Description-American Express Business Plan Resources

Product/Service Plan- Mistakes To Avoid

Title and number it accordingly, add it to your assignment log, and retain it for a future notebook check.

Next, you will begin to organize pertinent information about your business’ products/services and those of your competitor(s), using the worksheet below as a starting point. The competitive portion of this worksheet will be completed on an offsite class day. Both pages of the worksheet should be completed and retained for a future notebook check.
Business Plan Project Workbook Worksheet 3-1, 3-2, 3-3 (combined)

Creating Your Product/Service Plan – Part I

2007-03-12T23:07:00.000-07:00

Creating Your Product/Service Plan – Part I

Key Terms:
features
benefits
tangible benefits
intangible benefits
value proposition

Overview: The product/service plan defines the core products/services that the company will offer, and describes how they will be produced. The plan explains how the company’s products and services will meet potential customer needs. Review of the products and services currently being offered in the marketplace helps a company define how its features and benefits will be unique. It is important to clearly communicate the unique selling proposition (USP) of a company’s products or services to the target market. The USP should be based on the value proposition that the customer groups have.

Assignment: Read Chapter 3 in the Business Plan Project Workbook. Take notes on your reading, outlining the chapter, defining the key terms and paying close attention to the concepts introduced. After you finish the reading and notes, complete the vocabulary review (pg 31) & the reading review questions (pg 32). Title and number it accordingly, add it to your assignment log, and retain it for a future notebook check.

Creating An Action Plan For The Fashion Show!

2007-02-14T15:51:00.000-08:00

You are about to embark on a great challenge... planning and executing your very own fashion show! In order to be successful, though, you must have a plan! One of my favorite quotes is "Fail to plan, plan to fail!"

These next few exercises will help you begin to create your department's action plan for the fashion show. You will likely make revisions to this plan as we progress, but it will give you and your team a great place to start!

Preliminary Planning Steps

Step #1
Take notes on your teacher's presentation entitled "Creating An Action Plan". The power point presentation is linked for your reference.

Step #2
Create a binder for your department. Create a cover sheet & a word processed table of contents (using minimally 18 pt. font) to include the following:

Team roster
Team Action Plan
Samples (from previous year's,if available)
Meeting agendas
Weekly Team Assignments
Weekly Progress/Communication
Individual Weekly Logs
Team's "Work In Progress"
Miscellaneous

Step # 3

Type up your team roster (identifying your team leader)
Create a preliminary action plan (using the template) of things you would like to accomplish as a team. Note: This will be reviewed and revised, as needed, based on the overall consensus from all applicable parties.

Creating Your Management Team Plan

2007-02-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

Creating Your Management Team Plan

The long-term success of many companies depends, above all, on the quality of the team that provides leadership, direction and vision. In some cases, in fact, investors have been know to fund a start-up company purely based on the basis of the people who will run it.

If you’re going into business all alone, you don’t have to spend too much time describing yourself in your plan – although it’s not a bad idea to review your own education, experience, and accomplishments and write up a resume. Sole proprietors are sometimes called on to provide information about themselves to bankers, suppliers, and even prospective customers.

If you’re running a small business, include biographies of your top managers in your plan. We recommend limiting your plan to no more than 5 people – individuals in senior posts who are involved with day-to day operations of the business. This includes all the big C’s:

CEO Chief Executive Officer
COO Chief Operations Officer
CFO Chief Financial Officer
CTO Chief Technology Officer

[1]

Take some brief notes on articles below, as well as helpful info from the paragraphs above. Title and number it accordingly, add it to your assignment log, and retain it for a future notebook check.

Creating Your Management Team Plan
(This article includes questions to ask of yourself before writing your plan)
[2]
Creating Your Resume
[3]

It is now time for you to create your management team plan. Develop the appropriate plan for your business. This may be limited to a resume, but depending on the size of your business, could include such things as an organizational chart (that can easily be created in Word, Excel, PowerPoint & others), an overview of your team (biographies), and even possibly a brief description of members of your Board of Directors, Advisory Board or consultants who will play a major role in making your business a success. Remember, the goal of a management team plan is to present your team's qualifications and describe how your team has the capabilities to execute your business concept.

Use the worksheet (below) as a starting point. Title/number it and retain it for a future notebook check.
Management Team Plan Worksheet
The worksheet is hosted by Host-files.com. When you click on the link above, it will take you to their site. Midway down the screen, you will see “form 0609.pdf”. click “download” to view.

Before you begin word-processing your management team plan, you may wish to look at some samples, as a reference. You can download some management team plan examples at Host-files.com. When you click on the link above, it will take you to their site. Midway down the screen, you will see a word document icon. Click “download” to view.

Click here to review the grading rubric , before you turn in your word-processed first draft.

Footnotes:

[1] Steven Peterson, PhD & Peter E. Jaret, Business Plans Kit For Dummies (Indianapolis, Indiana : Wiley Publishing 2001 ) pg 139
[2] “The Business Plan – Management Team Plan, Computer Concierge International, February 7, 2007
[3] “Your Resume”, Purdue Online Writing Lab, February 7, 2007

Reminder: Balance Due for DECA State Conference -Wednesday 2/7

2007-02-04T20:45:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to another great trip!

Superbowl Log Makeup Assignment

2007-02-04T19:41:00.000-08:00

Marketing students:

If you were unable to watch the Super Bowl to complete your SB promotion log, here is a way you can make it up. Check out this recap of the 2007 Super Bowl Commercials thanks to aol.com & Mrs. Raaker (for providing this convenient link!)

Creating A Logo – Final Step

2007-02-03T18:33:00.000-08:00

Creating A Logo

Now that you have studied a little about the use of color, some graphic design principles and how to use graphics in Word, you are ready to create your own business logo! Utilize the concepts you’ve learned, in addition to the following logo basics.

Logo Basics
An effective logo will:

look good in a variety of contexts, for example, on a printed page, in an advertisement, on a screen or on a billboard
be simple (but powerful)
accurately represent the image of the business
convey an instant message
be memorable
be clearly identifiable in black and white as well as in color.

Read the following article and take some brief notes. Title this assignment “Guidelines For Selecting Logo Design” and add this to your assignment log, in your class binder, for an upcoming notebook check.

Guidelines For Selecting Logo Design

Now, it’s time! Create your company logo. See your teacher for a grading rubric and the assignment due date. Hand in your completed work (attached to the rubric) to the “in” box. Make good use of your class time to avoid having to do this at home. Be creative! Be sure to do your best work as this assignment is worth 60 pts!

Web Resources
Logo - Wikipedia

http://cooltext.com/Logos

Creating A Logo – Part Three

2007-02-03T16:31:00.000-08:00

Using Graphics In Word 2000

Title your notes "Using Graphics in Word" (Assignment #9) and add to your assignment log in your binder to be checked on the upcoming class notebook check.

ASSESSMENT:
After taking some notes on the above article and your teacher’s class presentation, you should be able to complete the tasks outlined below. Go to a computer and begin this assessment activity. Call your teacher over to check your work (for credit), when you feel you are ready to demonstrate these skills.

Insert a text box
Insert an auto shape
Change the color and style of the line
Change the color of the fill
Add another auto shape
Demonstrate layering by showing how to move one to the front.
Add text to one of your auto shapes
Group the two shapes together as one

Creating A Logo - Part Two

2007-02-03T15:45:00.000-08:00

Graphic Arts
Design Elements and Principles

DIRECTIONS: To use this online lesson, read each section completely and take some notes to help you remember the concepts that are being presented. Title this assignment (#7) “Design Elements & Principles Notes” and add this to your assignment log, in your class binder, for an upcoming notebook check.

In both the Elements and the Principles sections you will find highlighted text. When clicking on these words you will go to a graphic that illustrates the Element or Principle chosen. Please be patient as some of these graphics may take a bit longer to load than others.

When you have finished each section, proceed to the questions at the end of the lesson. Please write your answers on a separate piece of paper titled (#8) “Design Elements & Principles Assessment”. Add this to your assignment log, in your class binder, for an upcoming notebook check.

OBJECTIVES:
After studying this lesson, you will be able to:
1. Identify the necessary points to achieve well-designed printed material.
2. List the five elements of design and state their purposes.
3. Use the principles of design so images have a pleasing relationship.

INTRODUCTION
The basic task is to produce an image that will communicate the desired message to the intended audience. Well-designed printed material should:
1. Attract the reader's attention.
2. Be easy to read and understand.
3. Have a lasting effect on the reader.

Therefore, it is essential to develop a good layout of visual materials. To achieve this, the fundamentals of design must be applied.

ELEMENTS OF DESIGN
The basic design elements are: lines, shapes, mass, texture, and color.

Lines
Lines can take many forms. They can be loose and free or they can be straight and sharp. Lines can create patterns which adds emotional impact to the visual image. Lines can also be used as forms of universal language in communication.

Shapes
The three basic shapes: square, circle, and triangle.Each of these shapes have a psychological meaning associated with it. The triangle has the attitude of conflict or action. The circle gives the feeling of protection or infinity. Honesty or equality is associated with the square.

Mass
Mass refers to the size or amount of space taken up by an element. The mass or solid, plus the shape, tend to give relationship with other elements. The various weights of different shapes can be used to emphasize type styles.

Texture
Texture is a part of every printed image. The first reaction is to touch the surface. Texture can be produced by lines that form images. However, this element is usually visual and no reaction would be received through the sense of touch. Actual texture can be produce by embossing.

Color
When color is used on a layout, it causes that part of the layout to attract attention. Color can have a strong emotional and psychological impact on the reader. It can be used to add interest and to reduce boredom. Yellow, orange, and red are considered warm colors and often denotes aggression, excitement, and danger. Blue, green, and violet are considered to be cool colors and are associated with nature and passiveness.

PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN
The basic design principles include: balance, contrast, unity, rhythm, and proportion.

Balance
Balance refers to equalizing the weight of elements in a design. Formal balance is achieved when all of the elements on the page are of equal weight and are placed symmetrically on the page. If a line were drawn through the exact center, it would divide the design elements in half. Informal balance may be achieved when the value, size, and location of unequal elements on a page are changed.

Contrast
Contrast or emphasis adds variety to a design. It is the variations of elements in the printed product. Some elements of a layout stand out because of contrast. This is achieved by a difference in size, color or appearance. A few contrasts are: round and straight, ornate and plain, broad and narrow. Contrast can be used to keep the attention of the reader and to keep the reader's interest moving from one element to another.

Unity
Unity or harmony gives elements the appearance of belonging together. It is the proper balance of all elements so that a pleasing whole results. The image is viewed as one piece, as a whole, and not as separate elements. Using too many shapes or typefaces may cause a design to be unfocused. An organized design can be achieved by using a basic shape which is then repeated.

Rhythm
Rhythm is used to create eye movement and direction. It occurs when a design element is repeated. Rhythm acts as guide so the eye reads important parts of a message. Numbers can then be used to direct the reader from one element to another.

Proportion
Proportion is the relationship between size and shape. It helps to achieve balance and unity in a layout. To obtain good proportion the sizes of the elements must be regulated. To avoid the design from being dull and static, proportion must be balanced by the use of contrast or unity. Proportion is a means of developing an aesthetically pleasing relationship between each of the elements used in the layout.

DESIGN ELEMENTS & PRINCIPLES ASSESSMENT
Please write you answers on a separate piece of paper titled (#7) “Design Elements & Principles Assessment”. Add this to your assignment log, in your class binder, for an upcoming notebook check.

1. The following is NOT an element of design:
a. Shape. b. Texture. c. Mass. d. Beauty.

2. The attitude of conflict or action is associated with the __________.

3. The feeling of protection or infinity is given by the __________.

4. Honesty or equality is associated with the __________.

5. The design element that can be produced by lines that form images or can be created by embossing is __________.

6. Color can be used to add interest and to reduce boredom. True or False?

7. Warm colors are yellow, orange and red. True or False?

8. Cool colors are blue, green, and violet. True or False?

9. The following is NOT a design principle:
a. Balance. b. Unity. c. Equality. d. Contrast.

10. There are two kinds of balance, informal and __________.

11. Variety is added to a design by the use of _________.

12. Elements appear to belong together by the use of unity. True or False?

13. Eye movement is created by the design principle __________.

14. An aesthetically pleasing relationship between elements is achieved with __________.

Superbowl Project Timeline

2007-02-01T00:52:00.000-08:00

Review Chapter 29.2 & create survey
In class - Thursday 2/1

Watch ½ hour of the Superbowl & complete the promotion log
Sunday 2/4

Conduct survey (secondary research) Sunday/Monday

Conduct online(primary) research (promotional mix, etc.) In class - Monday 2/5

Create Powerpoint & prepare for presentation Tuesday 2/6

Presentations Wednesday 2/7 & Thursday 2/8

SUPERBOWL PROJECT OVERVIEW

2007-02-01T00:25:00.000-08:00

Are you ready to explore the world of promotion? Let's have some fun looking at Super Bowl Advertising!

At no time of year is there more focus on advertising than late January when the Super Bowl rolls around. An estimated 90 million viewers in 45 million American households will be tuned to Super Bowl XLI, to be played Feb. 4 in Miami. CBS will air the game, and the network has sold 80 percent of the commercial time, or about 48 of the 59 or 60 scheduled ad units. The network is charging as much as $2.6 million for some spots. Advertisers still appear to be willing to pay top dollar during the Super Bowl since a gigantic audience is virtually guaranteed, regardless of which teams are playing. Even when the Super Bowl is over, the Web provides video, stills photographs and lots of analysis from experts – and viewers, too.

What better place to study the concept of promotional mix, than by looking at the Superbowl?

Objectives
Students will:
1. Research the promotional methods used in promoting the SuperBowl.
2. Prepare a PowerPoint presentation demonstrating their understanding of concepts such as: promotional mix, advertising & market research.
3. Research what experts and viewers thought about the commercials shown during the Super Bowl paying special attention to the reason ads were popular or not.
4. Survey peers to find out most liked and most disliked ads, demonstrating marketing research methods of data collection and analysis.

Resources and materials:Web sites with information:
http://superbowl.com/
http://www.superbowl-ads.com/2007/index.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advertising_in_the_Super_Bowl (history & more)

MARKET RESEARCH
1. Conduct Internet Research (secondary data), in addition to reviewing your Marketing Essentials textbook & notes to include:

Brief history of Superbowl advertising
Review of last year’s ads http://www.class5consulting.com/Superbowl%202006%20.pdf (superbowl ’06 commercial review)

2. Conduct a survey (primary data). (Refer to Ch 29.2 in the textbook for help in creating and formatting your survey).

NOTE: Blank survey will be turned in with final project. Survey findings should be included in your Power Point presentation (below). Survey should include:

What their peers liked and disliked most about the Superbowl ads.
Explain how these preferences relate to effective advertising techniques.
Demographic statistics (give a profile of those surveyed)
Questions - minimally 6 (not to include demographics); should demonstrate at least two different types of questions (rank, scale, grid, etc.) and should include both quantitative and qualitative research.
Watch at least an half hour of the Superbowl (live or taped) and complete the promotion log (included). Submit an individual log (one per person) with the completed project.

PROMOTION
1. Conduct research on the promotional methods used to promote this year’s Super Bowl.
2. Review advertising techniques & ways to measure their effectiveness.
3. Create a promotional mix for the Superbowl to include at least two examples of each of the four types of promotion (Advertising, Personal Selling, Promotion & Publicity)
Students will make an oral presentation to the class utilizing Power Point to include:

Brief history of Superbowl advertising
A promotional mix related to the Superbowl (as described above
Best & Worst Ad (due to market research) & why. Relate back to the concepts of effective advertising
Survey findings Chart/Graph (to include demographic statistics of persons surveyed, as well as results from each of the 6 questions
Bibliography (citing at least 2 sources)

Presentations should be:

Informative
Well-organized
Creative
Professional
Minimally 6 slides
Include ALL of the above components

Students should come in professional dress on the scheduled day to present. If you have any questions as to what is deemed as appropriate attire, please see your teacher. Students are expected to work cooperatively & efficiently, in teams of no more than four. Use class time wisely. Time management, productivity and teamwork will be factored in to the final grade.

Creating A Logo - Part One

2007-01-31T19:04:00.000-08:00

The Importance of Color

As we begin to develop ideas for our businesses, one of the first things we will do is create a company logo. A logo (or signature) is the distinctive identification symbol for a business. A well-designed logo gets instant recognition for the business. No business plan or marketing materials are complete without it.

There are many considerations to be made when creating your company logo, but the first thing we will explore is the use of color and its impact in terms of our marketing efforts.

Step 1:
Click on the link below to see the Color Wheel. You may find it helpful to print a copy for your binder.
Color Wheel & Simple Color Theory

Step 2:
Read the following articles and take some brief notes. These notes will be checked on our first Semester 2 Binder check. Please title the notes accordingly and be sure to number them, as well.

Assignment #2
Business & Marketing - Who Owns The Hue?

Assignment #3
Why Color Matters

Assignment #4
Color Psychology & Marketing

Step 3:
Assess your understanding of the color theory we have explored by taking a practice quiz. The answers to the questions can be found in the video we watched in class entitled “Color In Everyday Life” or by reviewing the notes you took in Step 2. This will also be checked in your binder check. Please title it Assignment #5 Practice Quiz - "Color In Everyday Life".

Extra Credit Options

2007-01-29T15:21:00.000-08:00

All extra credit work must be submitted at the end of grading period with an up-to-date log (see your teacher to get a form). All work must be submitted in writing and is subject to teacher approval. Students are eligible to turn in up to 350 pts (max. 10%) per grading period. Don't miss out!

Here are some extra credit work options that are available to you:

1. Visit the DECA dimensions publication online at http://www.deca.org/dimensions.html or see additional archived articles at: http://www.deca.org/dimensionsarchives.html
Read an article and write a summary of what you learned (including some practical way you could apply this to your own life). These can be emailed to me at traaker@pleasanton.k12.ca.us - 25 pts a piece
2. Visit the textbook student center and do the chapter "interactive tutor" activities for any of the chapters that we have covered in class. After completing the activity you will have to print out (ctrl + p) the finished screen and turn it in (showing an 80% or better on the material). - 20 pts each one
Marketing Essentials (Marketing textbook)
Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management (Economics of Business Ownership textbook)
3. Search out a website related to the unit we are studying in class, or any site relevant to Business, Marketing or DECA. Write a brief summary (minimum ½ page) of what you learned from your visit. Include the web address of the site you visited. - 25 pts a piece
4. Review and summarize a current newspaper article that deals with a Business, Marketing or DECA related topic. Your summary should be 1-2 paragraphs (minimum ½ page), and you must attach the article (or copy of it) with your work. - 25 pts a piece
5. Choose a half hour program on television or radio that is related to Business, Marketing or DECA. Write a 1-2 paragraph (minimum ½ page) summary of what you learned. Be sure to include the name of the show, when it is on and what channel it appeared. - 25 pts a piece
6. Visit the DECA website at http://www.deca.org/. Click on “High School”, select “Competitive Events” and then click on the “DECA Guide”. Select an area that you might like to compete in; print the guidelines for this event. Next, visit the DECA Connection area at the Glencoe McGraw-Hill website at http://www.glencoe.com/sec/busadmin/marketing/dp/index.html. Take a practice (10 question) test available by clicking on the event category of your choice. After you check your answers, print it out to turn in. - 25 pts a piece

Success Traits Of An Entrepreneur

2007-01-08T19:25:00.000-08:00

Take this quiz: Entrepreneur’s Personality Quiz . Once you have completed the short quiz, hit “check your score” and then hit CTRL + “P” on the keyboard to print your results.

Read this article and jot down some brief notes for future use:
What Traits & Characteristics Make An Entrepreneur Successful?

Take the findings from these activities, along with this handout & rubric, to create a class bulletin board on the “Success Traits of An Entrepreneur”.

Join Our Apprentice Fantasy Game Team!

2007-01-04T13:51:00.001-08:00

Join in on the fun! Sign up to be on the FHS DECA Yahoo Apprentice Fantasy Game Team. First, sign up yourself and then click on "join a group" and then "join a private group". Our ID is 559 and the password is falcon. Click here to join Check back weekly to answer questions and see what your score is. It's a fun, friendly competition. Let's see whose analytical skills are the strongest! In the words of Donald, "It's not personal, it's business!" Hone in on your critical thinking ability!

Check out the Apprentice Website to "Meet The Candidates" and complete your first Apprentice assignment.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens Training Program

2006-12-10T15:05:00.000-08:00

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens Training Program

Congratulations! As a Business Ownership student and an outstanding employee, you have been tasked with helping to train other teens at your workplace. The following are the guidelines on what you will need to do to prepare to conduct a training program on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens. You will work on a team and will present (with your team) one key concept from the chapters in the book.

Step 1: If at all possible, read the text, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, by Sean Covey. You are strongly encouraged to purchase this book, however, you can also borrow it from the local library, if you prefer. If you cannot obtain the text, some highlights will be provided, that will be needed to complete this activity.

Step 2: Form a group (size to be determined by the teacher) and get your assigned “habit”.

Step 3: With your partners, conduct preliminary research on your topic and decide the following:

Key points you wish your audience to know about the “habit". Prepare an outline of what you plan to present (to be collected at the end.)
One skit (or interactive activity) that represents your “habit”
What type of creative evaluation can be conducted to assess the students’ understanding of the concepts (game, quiz, review questions, etc)

Step 4: Choose one team member to act as secretary and record all decisions made in Step 3. Include this data in your final packet to be turned into your teacher.

Step 5: As a group, create a poster to use as a visual aid in your training program. Be sure to include the "habit". Use examples that will help you explain how to implement the habit. Graphics are encouraged! Make your poster both creative and professional!

Step 6: Present your "habit" to the class. Your team will have 15 minutes to present all material, conduct an activity, and provide an assessment.

Step 7: Submit all written work to your teacher (outline/step 3 data, poster, etc.)

Bonus Activities:Play the 7 Habits Matching Game or the Word Search! You can also begin your personal mission statement by doing "The Great Discovery"

DECA Students Achieve Success

2006-12-10T14:55:00.000-08:00

DECA Students Achieve Success

The Foothill DECA chapter attended this year’s first Career Development Conference (CDC), which took place at Livermore High School on Thursday, October 26th, 2006.

DECA, an Association of Marketing Students, gives high school students the opportunity to explore today’s business world and gain hands on experience with industrial professionals as they compete.

The goal of this event was to train students to compete at the District, State & International competitions that will be held later this year. Close to 200 students, from 5 local high schools, participated in 4 different events in the areas of Retail Merchandising, Restaurant and Food Service Management, Business Services Marketing & Marketing Management. As always, the competition was intense, so we would like to take this time to congratulate our winners:

Amy Crawford
Austin Abbruscato
Calem Tamayo
Danica Gragg
Erroll Jenkins
Jordan Friedman
Justine Lecco
Katie Johnson
Megan Ortisi
Nick Martell
Russell Takehara
Sarah Spiegel
Scott Tomlin
Stephen Yoshida

This success gives us tremendous momentum as we proceed to train and develop all of our Foothill DECA members for future competitions.
Our conference schedule is as follows:

Nor Cal Career Development Conference (Nor Cal CDC)
San Ramon Marriott
January 12-14, 2007

State Career Development Conference (State CDC)
Costa Mesa, CA
March 1-4, 2007

International Career Development Conference (ICDC)
Orlando, FL Must qualify to attend
April 27-May 2, 2007

DECA, is a national organization whose program of leadership and personal development is designed specifically for students interested in marketing, management and entrepreneurship. For more information, contact Tami Raaker at traaker@pleasanton.k12.ca.us

Mini Conference Update

2006-10-25T00:49:00.000-07:00

Important notes:

Students MUST be available for the entire conference. DO NOT ask to leave early.
All students must be in professional dress. Guys: slacks, shirt, tie, dress shoes, dress socks (jacket preferred). Girls: slacks or skirt, career blouse with jacket or sweater set. Girls must wear dress shoes and pantyhose, if you are in a skirt.
Students must adhere to DECA code of conduct
Parking is an issue so allow plenty of time to find a spot and try to carpool, if you can.
Be sure to eat lunch before you get to the school; a snack will be provided.
Arrive at the student union at Livermore High School not before 12 and not after 12:30, to check in. There is a map available on the Foothill Web site at: Foothill Sports Directions The address is 600 Maple St. Take Stanley Blvd to Livermore. Stanley turns into First Street; take this through downtown. Cross Livermore Avenue in the center of downtown; go another two blocks to Maple. Turn right onto Maple Street: the school is four blocks from First Street on the right.
Judges are still needed...
Calculators are permitted (but will probably not be necessary).
Know what event you are competing in.
In preparation for tomorrow’s DECA competition, review the performance indicators for your instructional area/event category (see links below).
DECA Competitive Events
The Instructional Areas for tomorrow in each role play category are:
MMS Business, Management and Entrepreneurship
MMS Performance Indicators

BSM Communication and Interpersonal Skills
BSM Performance Indicators

RFSM Professional Development
RFSM Performance Indicators

RMS Communication and Interpersonal Skills
RMS Performance Indicators

Remember, give it your very best shot, no matter what happens. Even if this is not important to you, seeing you give your best effort IS important to Mrs. Raaker! Go Foothill DECA!

Passionately Pink For The Cure (TM)!

2006-10-09T21:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Teachers,

Did you know it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Did you know it is expected that more than 212,000 women and men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and more than 41,000 people will die from breast cancer in 2006 alone?! This dreaded disease touches millions of lives. Foothill DECA, with the help of our awesome student body & faculty, has an opportunity to make a difference by showing our passion and sharing the promise for the cure.

Foothill DECA has chosen Wednesday, October 18th as our day to go Passionately Pink for the Cure(TM). We are asking everyone to participate by doing one of the following:

* Wear pink on Wednesday, October 18th
* Participate in the "Miracle Minute" on 10/18 (details to follow)
* Come by our table on the quad this week and get a Breast Cancer
Awareness sticker by making a donation of any amount.
* Click below make a donation online

Passionately Pink For The Cure (TM)!

The Komen Foundation is a global leader in the fight against breast cancer. Our contribution will be put directly to work by the Komen Foundation to fund critical research, education, screening and treatment programs in more than 15,000 communities.

Please say you'll go Passionately Pink for the Cure(TM)! Contact Foothill DECA at traaker@pleasanton.k12.ca.us for more information. Also, be sure to visit the Komen Foundation Web site, www.komen.org, for the latest breast health and breast cancer information.

Thank you!

Michael Garrity & Eric Gabbani
Foothill DECA Vice Presidents & Breast Cancer Awareness Coordinators

Economics of Business Ownership Chapter 1 Test Review

2006-09-20T00:21:00.000-07:00

When studying for the upcoming chapter test, be sure to review all objectives and key terms as well as any text that is highlighted or in bold print. Pay close attention to the following:

Explain how the laws of supply and demand (in a free enterprise system) affect entrepreneurship.
Distinguish between elastic & inelastic demand.
Describe economic systems.
Discuss the role of economic indicators and business cycles.
Describe what entrepreneurs contribute to the economy.
Discuss the five components of the entrepreneurial start-up process.
Explain how to achieve business success.
Distinguish between business failure and discontinuance.
Explain the concept and role of competition in a free enterprise.
Define venture.

Be sure to bring your chapter notes and a #2 pencil with you to class for the test on Thursday, 9/21.

Marketing Chapter 1 Test Review

2006-09-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

When studying for the upcoming chapter test, be sure to review all objectives and key terms as well as any text that is highlighted or in bold print. Pay close attention to the following:

Understand the marketing concept.
Define the concept of market.
Explain goods and services.
Understand the seven marketing functions.
Explain the five economic utilities (and know which of the five is not directly related to marketing).
Explain the economic benefits of marketing
Know the difference between a consumer & a customer.
Differentiate between an industrial and a consumer market.
List the components and explain the concept of the marketing mix
Define customer profile.

Be sure to bring your chapter notes and a #2 pencil with you to class on Thursday, 9/21 for this test.

DECA Quiz review

2006-09-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder, we have a DECA quiz on Thursday 9/7. Below you find areas you will want to review as you prepare for it.

what is DECA?
know at least two of DECA's goals
know what the DECA logo (or emblem) is
know what the DECA diamond stands for
know the DECA web sites
know when & where the conferences are held
know at least one series event and one written or chapter event
know what the college division of DECA is called
know at least 4 of the available officer positions
know at least one of the qualifications to becoming an officer

Economics of Business Ownership Online Resources

2006-09-05T22:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome Economics Of Business Ownership Students to the FHS DECA Blog! This site will used often during the course of the year to convey information that supports our curriculum, as well as keep you up to date on the success of our Foothill DECA chapter!

This first blog entry relates to the use of the Glencoe's online learning resources. You can access the online learning tools associated with our textbook by clicking below.
Glencoe's Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management Textbook Online Resources

If you have any trouble, please let me know.

End Of The Year Memories!

2006-06-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

If you enjoyed the end of the year slide show and would like to purchase any of the photos, you may click here to access the FHS DECA photo album (featured online at Costco.com).

It has been a fun year, with some great memories. I will miss MOST of you, just kidding... I will really miss all of you!

Mrs. R

Creating A Parody Ad

2006-05-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

Marketing to Teens: Parody Ads

Parody ads are a fun way to analyze popular advertisements. When you spoof an ad, you take the elements of the ad that give it power, and make them absurd. You turn the message around to show that it is ridiculous or even untrue. You become savvy to the tricks of advertising!

Overview: In this lesson students explore what's hidden behind advertising messages by analyzing and creating parody advertisements.

Learning Outcomes
Students demonstrate:

an understanding that advertisements don't necessarily tell the whole truth about a product.
an awareness that advertisements are designed to deliver very specific messages to consumers.

Preparation
1. View some of the parody ads featured on the Ad Busters Website. Also, try to find the original ad it parodies, if possible. Choose three ads and answer the following questions in your notes. These notes will be handed in as part of this group assignment. Students may be asked to share their responses with the rest of the class.
What was the first thing you noticed about the ad?
What is being made fun of in the ad?
What is different or the same compared to the real ad?
How did it make you feel?
Did the parody ad change how you look at the original advertisers?

2. Read and take notes on how to create your own ad. These notes will be handed in as part of this group assignment.

3. Gather materials needed (as outlined below) and delegate tasks.

4. Create your own parody ad! You may want to make collages by cutting out of magazines, draw or paint your ads, use computer generated images, or you may think of another medium you would like to use.

5. Write a word-processed parody ad analysis that should include your:

communication objective
target audience
explanation of your concept

You will not be making a presentation on your ad, so be sure your ad analysis provides sufficient detail on the rationale behind the decisions made in creating your parody ad.

6. When submitting your parody ad, be sure to also hand in:

the answers to questions from step 1 (10 pts)
the notes from step 2 (10 pts)
your parody ad analysis (15 pts)
parody ad (25 pts.)

This assignment is worth 60 points!

Materials
You will need:

construction paper (or small poster board)
assorted magazines
art supplies (optional)
markers

Foothill Alumni Has Breakthrough In Music Industry!

2006-05-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

Support our local FHS Alumni Brent Messenger & Joey Clark!

Check out the success of their band and be the first to get your copy of their new single being released on 5/22!
Every Move A Picture Website

Pre-order the single today!
Signs Of Life Single

To any of my marketing students that may be visiting this site, this is marketing! :)

Media Awareness Web Activity

2006-04-09T15:50:00.000-07:00

Visit the following web resources to learn more about marketing. Take notes and answer questions, as appropriate on a piece of paper entitled “Media Awareness”.

Explore some advertising “tricks of the trade”!

Click here to learn about “Food Advertising Tricks”

1. What is the advertising trick to a:

a. “perfect hamburger”?

b. “roasted chicken”?

c. “scoop of ice cream”?

2. See if you can spot the ways that television commercials try to convince you to buy and do things. Look for catchy slogans, funny jokes and famous people. Click here and see “What’s In An Ad?”

Watch the Pepsi Ad.

a. Who is this ad targeted at?

b. What advertising techniques are they using to attract customers?

Watch the Levi’s Ad

c. Who is this ad targeted at?

d. What advertising techniques are they using to attract customers?

Watch the Phillips-Morris Ad.

e. Who is this ad targeted at?

f. What advertising techniques are they using to attract customers?

3. Click here and view the presentation entitled “Be An Ad Detective”. Click on the black arrow in the bottom right corner that is marked “get started”. Examine the pictures and find where the ads are hidden. Some are obvious but, some are not. Use your Ad Detective skills to find out where companies place their ads and why.

a. Who is the first advertiser shown in the illustration?

b. What form of advertising are they using and what are they paying for it?

c. Who is the second advertiser shown in the illustration?

d. What form of advertising are they using and what are they paying for it?

e. Who is the third advertiser shown in the illustration?

f. What form of advertising are they using?

g. Who is the fourth advertiser shown in the illustration?

h. What form of advertising are they using? Is this effective? Why or why not?

4. Click here to see “Question The Commercial”.

a. What do they presenters suggest we ask ourselves about the commercial?

b. What should we ask ourselves after we make a purchase?

5. Click here and do the activity entitled “What Is In The Shopping Bag”?

a. What is the item being sold here, in the first illustration?

b. What should we be cautious of, as savvy consumers?

c. In example #2, what ingredient would we assume is in this product? Is it?

d. How do we know what is found in the product?

e. What ingredient is found in the pizza rolls (illustration #3)? Where else is this ingredient found?

f. Who is the advertiser in example #4? How does the packing mislead us?

g. Who is the advertiser in example #5? How does the packing mislead us?

h. Who is the advertiser in example #6? How does the packing mislead us?

6. Through the years, advertisers have convinced us to buy all kinds of stuff. Why are some products hot sellers while others become sales flops? Click here to explore more on this topic “Hot or Snot”.

a. Who is the advertiser in example #1? Were they successful? Why or why not?

b. Who is the advertiser in example #2? Were they successful? Why or why not?

c. Who is the advertiser in example #3? Were they successful? Why or why not?

d. Who is the advertiser in example #4? Were they successful? Why or why not? What have we seen change in this product through the years? Why?

e. Who is the advertiser in example #5? Were they successful? Why or why not?

f. Who is the advertiser in example #1? Were they successful? Why or why not?

7. What role does music play in advertising? Click here to explore more on this topic. “Money & Music”

a. What advertiser created one of the first jingles? What dictates the type of music advertisers use? Click here for the answers “Music In Commercials”.

b. Take the “Jingle Quiz”. List your answers below.

8. Click here to read Selling Out Or Paid Publicity? Why will some musicians sell to advertisers and others won’t? Explain your personal opinion on this topic.

9. These days, becoming a pop star takes more than talent and good looks. Big record companies spend a ton of money advertising and promoting their artists. Click here to read “Making Mu$ic”.

a. Who decides what music gets played on the radio?

b. How did this happen?

c. How do these big companies decide what music to play on the radio?

d. How do bands and artists become popular?

e. Where can you learn about different kinds of music, the good stuff that doesn't get much promotion from the record companies?