Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 04/03/2026
Subject: Economics
Lesson Topic: an understanding of other objectives of firms: survival
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe why firms may prioritise survival over profit maximisation.
  • Identify key financial and non‑financial indicators used to monitor firm survival.
  • Analyse how cost‑minimisation, revenue‑stabilising and financial‑management policies support survival.
  • Apply break‑even and cash‑flow concepts to a real‑world case of a retailer in recession.
  • Evaluate the differences between profit‑maximisation and survival objectives.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen for slides/diagrams
  • Printed handout of indicator table and case study
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Calculator or spreadsheet software for break‑even calculations
  • Sticky notes for group brainstorming
 Introduction:

Begin with a quick poll: “If your favourite brand disappeared tomorrow, why would that happen?” Use responses to highlight the importance of firm survival. Review the classic profit‑maximisation objective and set the success criteria: students will be able to explain and apply survival‑focused policies.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – Students list three reasons a firm might fail; share and connect to survival.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Present the survival objective, key indicators and compare with profit maximisation (use slide with tables).
  3. Group activity (15') – In pairs, analyse the provided case study; calculate the cash‑flow ratio and break‑even output using calculators.
  4. Policy brainstorm (10') – Teams create a poster of one survival policy (cost‑minimisation, revenue‑stabilising, financial management, strategic flexibility) and justify it with indicators.
  5. Whole‑class discussion (10') – Compare posters, highlight overlaps, and discuss trade‑offs with profit‑maximisation.
  6. Formative check (5') – Quick quiz on indicator targets and policy examples (via Kahoot or handout).
Conclusion:

Recap the five learning objectives, emphasising how survival metrics guide firm decisions. Students complete an exit ticket: “Name one indicator and one policy that would help a firm survive a recession.” Assign homework to research a recent news article where a company adopted a survival strategy and write a short reflection.