Lesson Five Teacher Instructions

Lesson Five: Developing the Pitch

 

Overview

In this lesson, students will use all that they have worked on so far to develop a pitch for their business idea. They will have an opportunity to deliver a short Dragons’ Den style pitch to a panel of “Dragons” (peers, teachers or volunteers), demonstrating creativity, persuasive communication, and entrepreneurial thinking.

Objectives

• Develop and organize a persuasive business pitch that clearly explains a product or service idea, its purpose, and its target audience.
• Collaborate effectively in small teams to plan and prepare
• Demonstrate communication and presentation skills by confidently delivering a 2–3 minute pitch that uses clear language, creativity, and persuasive techniques.

Teacher Preparation 

• Review detailed instructions to become familiar with materials/activities
• Print copies of the Pitch Planner
• Review the Lesson 5 Slides before class. 

Agenda

1. Introduction – What is a Pitch? (5 min) 
2. Pitch Breakdown and Tips (15 min)  
3. Team Work Time – Develop Your Pitch (30 min)

Activities

 

1. Introduction – What is a Pitch? (5 min)

{Slide 2}

Project the Lesson 5 Slides and go through the slides as you go through each activity.  

Explain that a pitch is a short presentation to convince others (like investors or customers) that your business idea is worth supporting. Show a short Dragons’ Den or Shark Tank clip (1–2 minutes, school-appropriate) or describe one.

2. Pitch Breakdown and Tips (15 min) 

Review what makes a great pitch (see below). Discuss examples of confidence, clear ideas, and knowing your audience.

 Each team’s 2–3 minute pitch should include:

1. Business Name – catchy and relevant
2. The Problem – what issue or need are you solving?
3. The Solution – your product or service
4. Target Market – who will use or buy it?
5. Why It’s Unique – what makes it stand out from competitors?
6. Pricing & Profit – how much will it cost? how will you make money?
7. Call to Action – what do you want the Dragons to do? (e.g. invest, support, buy, etc.)

Optional add-ons:

• Show a logo, prototype, or poster.
• Include a short tagline or slogan.

{Slide 4}

Share the following tips for a great presentation. Insert your own suggestions as well.

  Tips for a Great Pitch Presentation

1. Be Clear and Confident

• Speak loudly and clearly so everyone can hear.
• Make eye contact with your audience.
• Smile — enthusiasm sells your idea!

{Slide 5}

2. Keep It Simple

• Focus on the most important points — don’t overload your audience with details.
• Use easy-to-understand language.

{Slide 6}

3. Tell a Story

• Start with a hook: “Have you ever wished…?” or “Imagine if…”
• Explain why your idea matters.

{Slide 7}

4. Show Teamwork

• Everyone in the group should have a speaking role.
• Practice transitions between speakers.

{Slide 8}

5. Be Creative

• Use visuals, props, or demonstrations if possible.
• Think outside the box — fun, bold ideas stand out!

3. Team Work Time – Develop Your Pitch (30 min) 

{Slide 9}

In their business teams, students prepare their 2–3 minute business pitch following the parameters. Encourage creativity, visuals, and role-play (e.g. CEO, marketing lead). Provide a copy of the Pitch Planner Document to help students plan their pitch. Remember: the top team from the class will be submitting their pitch planner to JA at the end of the program. 

Next Steps

{Slide 10}

• Ask students the questions on the slide as a reflection on Lesson 5.
• Remind students they will be pitching their ideas at the next session