| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Business |
| Lesson Topic: the different types of external growth through merger and takeover: horizontal, vertical (backward and forward), conglomerate diversification, friendly merger, hostile takeover |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe the six types of external growth (horizontal, vertical‑backward, vertical‑forward, conglomerate diversification, friendly merger, hostile takeover).
- Explain the strategic motivations and typical approaches for each type.
- Compare the advantages and risks associated with each external growth strategy.
- Analyse real‑world examples to identify the growth type and evaluate its likely success.
- Apply the concepts by evaluating a case study and recommending an appropriate growth option.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector and screen
- PowerPoint slides summarising each growth type
- Printed case‑study handout (one per student)
- Worksheet with comparison table
- Whiteboard and markers
- Sticky notes for group brainstorming
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Introduction:
Begin with a brief news clip of a recent high‑profile merger to spark interest. Ask students what they already know about how businesses expand beyond organic growth. Explain that today they will identify and evaluate six external‑growth strategies and will be able to justify which is most appropriate in a given scenario.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5'): Students list ways a business can grow; share and categorize into internal vs. external.
- Mini‑lecture (15'): Present each external growth type with purpose, example, and typical approach (slides + whiteboard diagram).
- Group case analysis (20'): In groups of 4, examine the provided case study, identify the growth type used, and discuss motivations and risks (record on worksheet).
- Whole‑class comparison (10'): Groups present findings; teacher highlights key differences using the comparison table.
- Quick quiz (5'): 5 multiple‑choice questions via Kahoot to check understanding.
- Reflection (5'): Students write one “key takeaway” on a sticky note and place it on the board.
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Conclusion:
Summarise the six external growth strategies and their strategic purposes. Have students complete an exit ticket stating which type they would recommend for a new tech start‑up and why. Assign homework: research a recent merger or takeover, classify its type, and write a short evaluation of its success factors.
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