This lesson plan adheres to New York State Learning Standard 1- History of the United States and New York, Elementary Level, Key Idea #3. Additionally, this lesson plan corresponds with the National Social Studies Curriculum Standards thematic strand of production, distribution, and consumption.
ANTICIPATORY SET
Display the image of the Kodak camera, (image # 15), to students. Ask students what the object is. Give them hints such as, “now these are digital” and “this was made over 100 years ago” and “this invention revolutionized how we see the world” and “this object was invented in Rochester, New York”.
OBJECTIVE
Students will be able to analyze primary sources for evidence of American entrepreneurship during the early 20th century. Students will identify the attributes that helped George Eastman succeed as an entrepreneur and consider the role advertising played in his success as well as create their own advertisements.
PURPOSE
This lesson is based on the George Eastman Discovery Kit. The lesson should be used in Social Studies courses in units on early 20th century business development. It provides an alternative to studying the textbook “robber barons” while illustrating the importance of an entrepreneurial spirit and successful advertising.
INPUT
Essential Information -
Discuss with students the importance of photography at the turn of the century and George Eastman’s company, Kodak. Specifically, view images from the Discovery Kit and define what an “entrepreneur” is and how “advertising” helped with the success of Kodak.
Activities -
Collect recent advertisements for consumer goods, you may want to make this a homework assignment the night before for students. As a class, have students categorize the advertisements by product. For example, clothing, household goods, children’s items, beauty products, and luxury items could be used as categories.
Assign each group a category that was illustrated in the previous advertisements. Have students work in groups to come up with an idea for a product. Distribute art supplies for groups to make an advertisement for their product.
Independant Practice -
Assign students the following for homework: Besides an entrepreneurial spirit and successful advertising what makes businesses successful? Give an example of a successful business in your neighborhood.
MODELING
When students are creating their advertisements remind them of the successful elements of Kodak advertisements that they viewed.
CHECK FOR UNDERSTANDING
Students present their advertisements, noting the similarities to the Kodak ads.
GUIDED PRACTICE
Monitor student work answering questions throughout.
CLOSURE
Discuss with students the importance of entrepreneurship, advertising and how it affects economic success.