This small group session guides 9th-grade students through creating their first resume by identifying key components, brainstorming experiences beyond traditional jobs, and using powerful action verbs. it provides a foundational job search tool for future career exploration.
Teacher Notes: Explain how to list their current school and expected graduation year. Mention any honors or relevant coursework if applicable.
Section 4
Experience: Yes, You Have It!
Don't have a paid job? No problem! Experience includes:
Volunteer Work
Helping at school events, community service, or food banks.
Clubs & Teams
Sports, student council, band, or academic clubs.
Home Duties
Babysitting siblings, lawn care, or significant household help.
Personal Projects? Coding? Art? Building things? It all counts!
Teacher Notes: This is crucial for 9th graders. Help them brainstorm what counts as 'experience' beyond traditional jobs.
Make Your Experience POP!
Instead of:
"I helped organize the school play."
Try:
"Coordinated backstage logistics for the annual school play."
Use Your Tool!
Use the Resume Action Verb List to find powerful words that transform your bullet points!
Check Your Handout
Teacher Notes: Introduce the idea of using strong action verbs to describe their experiences. This is where the Resume Action Verb List comes in handy.
Section 5
Skills: What You're Good At
Hard Skills
Specific things you've learned to do.
• Basic Computer Programs
• Foreign Languages
• Playing an Instrument
• Video Editing
Soft Skills
Your personal qualities and habits.
• Teamwork & Leadership
• Problem-Solving
• Reliability & Punctuality
• Communication
Teacher Notes: Discuss both hard and soft skills. Provide examples relevant to their age group.
You're Resume Ready!
Resumes are important for showing off your best self.
You have valuable experiences, even without a "real job" yet.
Use the Template to start building yours today!
GOOD LUCK! 🚀
Teacher Notes: Summarize the key takeaways and encourage them to start drafting their resume using the provided template.
