Lesson Plan

• Describe how automation and technology improve production efficiency.
• Explain the impact of labour skill development and motivation on efficiency.
• Apply a break‑even analysis to evaluate an automation investment.
• Analyse efficiency measures such as output per labour hour and unit‑cost reduction.
• Propose a concise action plan to increase efficiency in a business scenario.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Slide deck summarising efficiency methods
• Printed worksheet with case study and calculations
• Calculator or spreadsheet software
• Short video clip of a robotic assembly line
• Flip chart and markers for group brainstorming

Begin with a quick video of a fully automated production line to spark curiosity. Ask students to recall examples of technology or training that have made their own school projects easier. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to evaluate and design efficiency‑boosting strategies using clear success criteria.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Students list three ways businesses they know have become more efficient.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Present key methods (automation, advanced tech, process re‑engineering, training, incentives, maintenance) with real‑world examples.
3. Video & Discussion (8') – Show the robotic assembly clip; students identify which efficiency method is illustrated.
4. Break‑Even Calculation Activity (12') – In pairs, use the worksheet to calculate the break‑even volume for a proposed automation investment.
5. Skill‑Development Brainstorm (8') – Groups create a short training plan for up‑skilling staff, linking it to efficiency gains.
6. Check for Understanding (5') – Quick quiz (Kahoot or hand‑raise) covering definitions and measurement formulas.
7. Action‑Plan Synthesis (7') – Each group drafts a 3‑step efficiency improvement plan using the checklist provided.

Recap the main routes to higher efficiency and highlight how the break‑even analysis and skill‑development plan connect. Students submit an exit ticket stating one specific change they would recommend for a local business. For homework, they research a recent automation case study and prepare a one‑page summary.