Lesson Plan

• Describe the key characteristics that define a small business.
• Explain at least three advantages and three disadvantages of operating as a small business.
• Analyse how these advantages and disadvantages impact overall business performance.
• Apply the concepts to a real‑world example and formulate a balanced judgement.

• Projector and screen
• PowerPoint slides summarising advantages/disadvantages
• Printed case‑study handout (local bakery example)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Exit‑ticket slips

Begin with a quick poll: “What business do you think of when you hear ‘small business’?” Use responses to link prior knowledge of local enterprises. State today’s success criteria: students will be able to list and evaluate the main pros and cons of small firms.

1. Do‑Now (5'): Students write three features they associate with small businesses on sticky notes.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Present definitions, characteristics, and the comparison table using slides.
3. Group activity (15'): In pairs, analyse the bakery case study, identifying at least two advantages and two disadvantages.
4. Class discussion (10'): Groups share findings; teacher highlights links to performance outcomes.
5. Exam‑style question practice (10'): Students outline a brief answer plan for the provided exam prompt.
6. Check for understanding (5'): Quick quiz via Kahoot or hand‑raised responses.

Recap the key advantages and disadvantages discussed, emphasizing their effect on decision‑making and financial stability. Students complete an exit ticket stating one advantage and one disadvantage they found most compelling. Assign homework: research a local small business and write a short paragraph evaluating its strengths and weaknesses.