Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Business
Lesson Topic: the translation of objectives into targets and budgets
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the difference between business objectives, targets, and budgets.
  • Apply the SMART criteria to convert an objective into measurable targets.
  • Construct a simple operating budget based on departmental targets.
  • Analyse budget variances and propose corrective actions.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Handout with objective‑target‑budget flowchart
  • Sample financial data worksheet
  • Calculator or spreadsheet software
  • Sticky notes for group activity
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: “What do you think separates a goal from a target?” Review the previous lesson on business objectives, linking to today’s focus on translating them into targets and budgets. Explain that students will be able to create SMART targets and draft a basic budget by the end of the lesson.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5’) – Students list one business objective they recall and share why it needs further detail.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Define objectives, targets, budgets; introduce SMART criteria and budget types.
  3. Guided practice (12’) – In pairs, convert a given profit objective into SMART targets using a worksheet.
  4. Budget building activity (15’) – Groups allocate resources to departmental targets and fill in a simple operating budget template.
  5. Variance analysis simulation (8’) – Teacher presents actual vs. budget figures; students identify variances and suggest adjustments.
  6. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick quiz via Kahoot or exit ticket summarising key steps.
Conclusion:
Summarise the step‑by‑step pathway from objectives to targets to budgets and highlight the importance of monitoring variances. Ask students to write one key takeaway on a sticky note as an exit ticket. For homework, assign a brief case where they must develop SMART targets and a corresponding budget for a new product launch.