Contents

Lesson 1: Introduction to Employability Skills .......................................................................................... 1

Objectives: ............................................................................................................................................ 1
Materials: .............................................................................................................................................. 1
Warm-Up/Preview: ............................................................................................................................... 1
Direct Teach: ......................................................................................................................................... 1
Discussion: ............................................................................................................................................ 2
Closure: ................................................................................................................................................. 3
Links ...................................................................................................................................................... 4

Lesson 1: Introduction to Employability Skills

Objectives:
- The student will understand the importance of employability skills in the workplace.
- The student will identify career development, education, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
- The student will recognize the value of professional standards and employability skills.

Materials:
- Whiteboard and markers
- Lesson ES.1 Slides
- Lesson ES.1 Student Notes Handout
- Computer and projector for presentations

Warm-Up/Preview:
5 minutes
• Slide 1: Ask students to complete the three-question prompt in their journal or on their warm
up page. You may ask them to write a paragraph or just answer in complete sentences. Begin
with a brief discussion about what students think "employability skills" are and why they are
essential for their future careers.

Direct Teach:
15 minutes
Define employability skills and explain their significance in the business and industry.
• Slide 2: Employability skills, often referred to as soft skills or job readiness skills, are a set of
attributes, behaviors, and personal qualities that enable individuals to perform effectively in the
workplace and contribute to the success of a business or industry. These skills go beyond
technical or job-specific knowledge and are considered essential for professional growth and
adaptability in a dynamic work environment.
 • Slide 3: Today, we're diving into an exciting journey to explore employability skills, which are the
valuable tools and attributes you'll need to not only succeed in your future careers but to stand
out as exceptional employees in any workplace.
• Slide 4: Hard skills, also known as technical skills, are the specific knowledge and abilities
essential for excelling in particular jobs or industries. These are the hands-on, practical skills that
will make you proficient in your chosen field and highly sought after by employers.
• Slide 5: Today, we're delving into the fascinating world of soft skills, which are the interpersonal
attributes and personal qualities that set the foundation for success in your future careers.
These are the skills that will help you communicate effectively, work well with others, and
navigate the complexities of the professional world with confidence and grace.
The significance of employability skills in business and industry is substantial for several reasons:
1. Effective Communication: Employability skills, such as verbal and written communication,
enable employees to convey their ideas, collaborate with colleagues, and interact with clients or
customers. Good communication fosters teamwork and helps resolve conflicts, ultimately
improving productivity.
2. Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Employees with strong problem-solving and critical
thinking skills can analyze complex situations, make informed decisions, and adapt to changing
circumstances. These skills are essential for innovation and continuous improvement in business
processes.
3. Interpersonal Skills: Building positive relationships and working effectively with others are
crucial in any industry. Interpersonal skills encompass teamwork, leadership, and the ability to
manage conflicts, creating a harmonious and productive work environment.
4. Adaptability: In a constantly evolving business landscape, adaptability is essential. Employees
with strong adaptability skills can learn new technologies and processes, stay current in their
field, and embrace change with resilience.
5. Time Management and Organization: Effective time management and organizational skills
help employees prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain high levels of productivity. These
skills are especially important in roles that require multitasking and project management.
6. Ethical Conduct and Professionalism: Maintaining ethical conduct and professionalism is
essential for building trust and credibility with colleagues, clients, and the public. These skills
ensure that businesses operate with integrity and adhere to legal and ethical standards.
7. Resource Management: Managing resources efficiently, whether they are financial, human, or
material, is vital for business success. Skills related to resource allocation and optimization help
companies operate more profitably.
8. Information Literacy: In the digital age, the ability to access, evaluate, and utilize information
is crucial. Employability skills related to information literacy enable employees to make
informed decisions and adapt to changing information needs.
9. Self-Motivation and Initiative: Employees who demonstrate self-motivation and take initiative
can drive their own professional development and contribute proactively to the growth and
success of a business or industry.

Discussion:
20 Minutes

• Slide 6: Employability skills are critical in business and industry because they promote a positive
work culture, enhance individual and team performance, and enable employees to adapt to
 changing demands and challenges. Employers value these skills because they contribute to a
more efficient and productive workforce, which, in turn, supports business growth and success.
As whole class using randomization techniques (varying how you call on students), discuss
career development, education, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Questions to ask students:
1. What comes to mind when you think about your future career? What factors are important to
you when considering your career path?
2. How do you think your education plays a role in shaping your future career? Can you identify
specific subjects or skills that are important for your chosen career?
3. Imagine you have a successful career in the future. What does it look like, and what steps do
you think you need to take to get there?
4. Are there any specific entrepreneurship opportunities that interest you? What kind of
business or venture would you like to start, and why?
5. How do you envision the connection between career development, education, and
entrepreneurship? Can you see how they might intersect and support each other?
• Slide 7: Utilize Think-Pair-Share to build in Higher-Order Thinking Questions:
1. Analyze the current job market and identify emerging trends in careers. How might these
trends impact your career choices and opportunities?
2. Evaluate the importance of education in preparing for a successful career. How does the level
of education impact earning potential and career advancement?
3. Imagine you want to pursue a career in a field that requires specialized skills or knowledge.
What education and training paths could you explore to become a competitive candidate in that
field?
4. Consider the qualities and skills of successful entrepreneurs. How do they differ from those of
employees in a traditional job? What personal traits and competencies are essential for
entrepreneurship?
5. Reflect on a specific entrepreneurship opportunity you have in mind. What are the potential
risks and rewards associated with this venture? How might your education and skills play a role
in its success?
6. Compare and contrast different paths to career development, such as going to college,
pursuing vocational training, or starting a business right after high school. What are the
advantages and disadvantages of each?
7. Investigate successful entrepreneurs who started their businesses while still in their teens.
What lessons can you draw from their experiences, and how might they inspire your own
entrepreneurial journey?
8. Consider the impact of technological advancements on the job market and entrepreneurship
opportunities. How might automation and artificial intelligence affect the skills and knowledge
needed for future careers and businesses?
9. Reflect on the role of mentorship and networking in career development and
entrepreneurship. How can seeking guidance from experienced professionals help you in your
journey?
10. Explore the concept of social entrepreneurship and its potential to address societal
challenges while creating a successful business. How can you align your career aspirations with
making a positive impact on the world?

Closure:
5 minutes
 • Slide 8: Have students return to their seat. Have them answer the following question: Reflect on
your own strengths and areas for improvement regarding employability skills. What specific
steps can you take to enhance these skills in preparation for your future career?

Links

Slides

Student Handout