Vocational Vibes Slides Career Blueprint: Lesson 1
VOCATIONAL
VIBES
Mapping your strengths, interests, and the path to your future career.
The Hook: Job Tinder
In a moment, we are going to play a rapid-fire game of Swipe Right.
SWIPE RIGHT: You like it!SWIPE LEFT: No thanks.
Don't overthink it. Go with your gut instinct!
HVAC Technician
Repair and install heating & cooling systems.
Essential Question
How do I align my personal strengths with a career path that works for me?
Interest vs. Aptitude
Interests
Things you ENJOY doing in your free time or at work.
• Playing video games
• Helping friends with problems
• Fixing things around the house
Aptitudes
Things you are NATURALLY GOOD at or learn quickly.
• Solving math puzzles
• Organizing information
• Working with your hands
The "Sweet Spot" is where these two overlap!
The Holland Code (RIASEC)
R
Realistic
"The Doers" — Working with tools, machines, or outdoors.
I
Investigative
"The Thinkers" — Science, research, and data.
A
Artistic
"The Creators" — Writing, design, and expression.
S
Social
"The Helpers" — Teaching, nursing, or counseling.
E
Enterprising
"The Persuaders" — Leadership, sales, and business.
C
Conventional
"The Organizers" — Data entry, finance, and details.
Today's Mission
1 Complete the Vocational Vibe Check.
2 Analyze your results for "Hidden Patterns."
3 Identify your top 3 Career Clusters.
Vocational Vibe Check Worksheet Vocational Vibe Check
Lesson 1: Interests & Aptitudes
Student:
Date:
The Mission
Finding the right career isn't just about what pays the most—it's about finding the intersection of what you enjoy (Interests) and what you are good at (Aptitudes). Complete this vibe check to see where you land!
1 Rapid Fire: Would You Rather?
Check the circle for the option in each pair that appeals to you more. Don't overthink!
A. Work outside in different weather
VS
B. Work in a temperature-controlled office
A. Solve a difficult math puzzle
VS
B. Design a poster for an event
A. Help a friend through a tough time
VS
B. Organize a complex filing system
A. Convince people to join a club
VS
B. Fix a broken lawnmower or engine
A. Write a script for a short film
VS
B. Lead a team toward a goal
2 Strength Scan: What's Easy for You?
List three things that you find easier to do than most other people (e.g., remembering names, building things, keeping track of details, listening, public speaking).
3 The RIASEC Reveal
Based on your teacher's explanation and your "Rapid Fire" answers, which two Holland Code types sound most like you?
Primary Type
Secondary Type
Self-Reflective Map
Write one career you've heard of that matches your primary type. Why does it interest you?
Career Discovery Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Vocational Vibes & Aptitudes
LESSON 1
Career Blueprint
Instructional Goal
Students will understand the difference between interests and aptitudes, use the RIASEC model to identify their vocational profile, and begin exploring career clusters that align with their findings. This lesson sets the foundation for identifying necessary workplace supports in later lessons.
Quick Stats
Duration: 60-90 Min
Approach: Workshop
Prep: Low
Pacing & Flow
10 MIN
The Hook: Job Tinder
Rapid-fire activity. Read out job descriptions (e.g., "Crane Operator," "Dog Trainer," "Accountant") and have students stand on the left or right of the room based on interest. High energy, low pressure.
15 MIN
Direct Instruction
Use the Vocational Vibes Slides to define interests vs. aptitudes. Introduce the RIASEC model with simple, relatable examples for each category.
30 MIN
Vibe Check Workshop
Students complete the Vocational Vibe Check Worksheet . Circulate to help students identify "hidden" aptitudes (e.g., if a student plays video games, their aptitude might be "spatial awareness" or "strategic planning").
Discussion Power Prompts
"Think of something you are good at but don't like doing. How would it feel to do that for 40 hours a week?"
"Is it better to find a job you love, or a job that supports the life you want outside of work?"
Differentiation Strategies
Support
Provide a "Word Bank" of aptitudes for Part 2 of the worksheet. Use picture-based cards for the RIASEC model for students with reading difficulties.
Extension
Ask students to go to O*NET OnLine and search for jobs that match their two-letter RIASEC code, then record the required education level.
Trade Route Slides Career Blueprint: Lesson 2
Trade
Routes
Exploring vocational training, apprenticeships, and the future of skilled work.
Hook: Reality Check
Electrician
Guess the Salary?
Plumber
Guess the Salary?
SURPRISE ENTRY
Cybersecurity Tech
Guess the Salary?
Essential Question
How do non-degree pathways compare to 4-year colleges in terms of cost and career growth?
Types of Training
Trade Schools
Specialized programs for specific jobs (e.g., HVAC, welding). Usually 6 months to 2 years.
FAST TRACK
Apprenticeships
Paid on-the-job training with a master technician. "Earn while you learn."
PAID TRAINING
Certifications
Short-term exams or courses that prove your skills in IT, healthcare, or safety.
SKILL SPECIFIC
The Path Comparison
4-Year Degree
Avg Cost: $100k+
Entry Age: 22-23
Debt: Likely
Vocational Training
Avg Cost: $10k-$30k
Entry Age: 19-20
Debt: Low or Zero
"Opportunity Cost"
In the 4 years someone is in college, a trade apprentice has already earned over $150,000 in wages.
Today's Mission
1 Investigate two different "Trade Routes."
2 Calculate the ROI (Return on Investment).
3 Present your "Trade Vibe Check."
Pathway Payoff Comparison Pathway Payoff
Lesson 2: Trade & Vocational Routes
Student:
Date:
The Guessing Game
Record your guesses from the slide presentation here:
Electrician: $__________
Plumber: $__________
Cybersecurity: $__________
"Vocational training often leads to high-demand jobs that cannot be automated or outsourced. Understanding the 'payoff' helps you make an informed choice."
1 Route Investigation
Choose two vocational routes that interest you (e.g., HVAC Apprentice, Certified Nursing Assistant, Web Dev Bootcamp, Commercial Pilot School).
Route A Name
Training Duration
Estimated Cost
Starting Salary
One Major Pro
Route B Name
Training Duration
Estimated Cost
Starting Salary
One Major Pro
2 Pathway Selection
Which of these two routes currently feels like the better "fit" for you?
Route A
Route B
Explain your reasoning (Consider cost, time, and your interests):
Fact Check
Did you know? In many states, a Licensed Plumber can earn more per year than many lawyers and architects, with significantly less student debt.
Vocational Ventures Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Trade Routes & Vocational Paths
LESSON 2
Career Blueprint
Instructional Goal
Students will explore high-demand technical and vocational careers that do not require a 4-year degree. They will analyze the "Return on Investment" (ROI) of these paths by comparing training costs, duration, and potential starting salaries against traditional academic pathways.
Quick Stats
Duration: 60-90 Min
Approach: Project-Based
Prep: Med (Research)
Pacing & Flow
15 MIN
Hook: Reality Check
Use the Trade Route Slides . Have students guess the starting salaries for trades. Reveal the answers using current BLS.gov data for your specific region if possible. Students record guesses on their worksheet.
15 MIN
Direct Instruction
Define: Apprenticeship, Trade School, and Certification. Explain the concept of "Opportunity Cost"—the money you lose by being in school instead of working.
40 MIN
Pathway Investigation
Students use the Pathway Payoff Comparison worksheet. Direct them to research sites like O*NET or local community college catalogs. Facilitate the calculation of "Total Cost" vs. "Year 1 Income."
Classroom Debate Prompts
"Is a 4-year degree always the safest option? Why do many people feel pressured to go even if they don't have a plan?"
"What are some common stereotypes about people who work in trades? Are they accurate based on the salaries we saw today?"
Differentiation Strategies
Support
Pre-fill one column of the Pathway Payoff worksheet with data for a common local trade (e.g., HVAC Tech) so students have a model to follow.
Extension
Have students calculate the ROI for a specific trade over a 10-year period, including hypothetical 3% annual raises.
Success Supports Slides Career Blueprint: Lesson 3
Success
Supports
Understanding reasonable accommodations and the power of the ADA.
The Mystery Employee
The Scenario
Alex is a Stock Clerk who has difficulty staying focused in noisy environments due to ADHD.
The Challenge
How can Alex keep the shelves organized without being overwhelmed by the noise of the store?
Noise-Canceling Headphones?
Night Shift Schedule?
Visual Checklist?
These are Reasonable Accommodations.
Essential Question
What are reasonable accommodations, and how do I find them for my specific needs?
What is "Reasonable"?
Under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), an employer must provide a change in the workplace that:
Allows you to perform essential job functions.
Does not cause "Undue Hardship" (extremely expensive or difficult for the company).
Key Takeaway
Accommodations aren't "special treatment"—they are tools for PRODUCTIVITY.
Meet Your New Best Friend: JAN
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is a free database of accommodation ideas for almost any disability or workplace setting.
Ask JAN: "I have difficulty with time management. What can help?"
JAN Answer: Digital planners, vibrating watches, color-coded tasks, daily check-ins.
AskJAN.org
The ultimate directory for workplace success.
Today's Mission
1 Analyze Case Study Profiles.
2 Use the JAN Database to find 3 solutions for each.
3 Present your "Accommodation Match."
Accommodation Matcher Activity Accommodation Matcher
Lesson 3: Navigating Workplace Supports
Student:
Date:
The ADA Advantage
An accommodation is any change in the work environment or in the way things are customarily done that enables an individual with a disability to enjoy equal employment opportunities. Use AskJAN.org to find the best tools for the job!
01
Case Study: The Focused Librarian
Employee Profile
Jordan
Library Assistant
Challenge:
Jordan has an anxiety disorder and becomes overwhelmed by crowds or loud voices while shelving books.
Proposed Accommodations (Search JAN: "Anxiety"):
02
Case Study: The Detail-Oriented Welder
Employee Profile
Maya
Apprentice Welder
Challenge:
Maya has Dyslexia. She struggles with reading complex safety manuals and written technical blueprints on the job.
Proposed Accommodations (Search JAN: "Learning Disability"):
My Personal Blueprint
Think about the career you researched in Lesson 2. What is one specific challenge you might face in that job, and what accommodation could you request?
The Job & The Challenge:
The Accommodation I'd Request:
JAN Navigator Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Navigating Workplace Accommodations
LESSON 3
Career Blueprint
Instructional Goal
Students will define "reasonable accommodations" under the ADA and learn how to use the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) as a resource for self-advocacy. By the end of the lesson, students should be able to identify potential workplace barriers and match them with effective, legally protected solutions.
Quick Stats
Duration: 60-90 Min
Approach: Inquiry-Based
Prep: Internet Access
Pacing & Flow
10 MIN
Hook: The Mystery Employee
Use the Success Supports Slides . Present the scenario about Alex. Allow students to brainstorm solutions before revealing that these are "accommodations."
20 MIN
Direct Instruction: ADA & JAN
Introduce the Americans with Disabilities Act. Emphasize that accommodations must be "reasonable." Walk through the AskJAN.org website as a class, searching for a common disability (e.g., ADHD or Anxiety).
40 MIN
Accommodation Matcher Workshop
Students work individually or in pairs on the Accommodation Matcher Activity . They must use the JAN database to find specific, non-obvious solutions for the case studies.
Essential Knowledge: "Undue Hardship"
Students often ask, "Can I ask for anything?" Explain that an employer can deny a request if it is an Undue Hardship . Use these examples to clarify:
Not Reasonable
Asking a small coffee shop to install a $50,000 elevator.
Reasonable
Asking for a sit-stand desk or a quieter workspace.
Differentiation Strategies
Support
If internet access is limited, provide printed "JAN Fact Sheets" for Anxiety and Learning Disabilities to help with the worksheet.
Extension
Have students role-play the "Disclosure Conversation" using one of the accommodations they found on the JAN database.
Disclosure Dilemma Slides Career Blueprint: Lesson 4
Disclosure
Dilemmas
Deciding if, when, and how to share your story in the workplace.
The Big Question
Imagine you just landed your dream job as a mechanic. You have an IEP and struggle with reading manuals quickly.
Do you tell your boss on the first day?
Tell them during the interview?
Wait until a problem arises?
Don't tell them at all?
Essential Question
How do I decide when to disclose my disability and what is the most professional way to do it?
The Disclosure Balance
The Pros
• Get the accommodations you need.
• Legal protection under the ADA.
• Less stress from "hiding" your struggle.
• Honest communication with your boss.
The Risks
• Fear of unfair judgment/stigma.
• Loss of privacy.
• Boss may focus on what you CAN'T do.
• Timing might feel awkward.
Mastering the Script
1
THE STRENGTH
"I'm really good at keeping the inventory organized..."
2
THE CHALLENGE
"...but sometimes I have difficulty processing verbal instructions."
3
THE SOLUTION
"It helps me stay on track if I have a written checklist."
Always end with the solution!
Today's Mission
1 Analyze your personal "Disclosure Choice."
2 Draft your professional Disclosure Script.
3 Speed-dating style Disclosure Practice.
Scripting My Story Worksheet Scripting My Story
Lesson 4: The Disclosure Decision
Student:
Date:
1 My Disclosure Stance
"Disclosure" means sharing information about your disability with your employer. It is a personal choice, not a requirement, unless you need an accommodation.
Early Disclosure
Share during the interview or first week.
Delayed Disclosure
Share only if a specific need or issue arises.
Non-Disclosure
Choose not to share and manage independently.
Which stance currently feels right for you and why?
2 Professional Disclosure Script
Use the Strength-Challenge-Solution model from the slides to draft a professional statement. Focus on how you will be a great employee!
Part 1: The Strength
Example: "I am a very reliable worker and I am great at following technical diagrams..."
Part 2: The Challenge
Example: "...but sometimes I have trouble with reading long safety manuals quickly."
Part 3: The Solution
Example: "I've found that using text-to-speech software helps me work much faster."
Practice Log
Read your full script to a partner. Ask them: "Did that sound professional?" and "Did you understand what I need to be successful?"
Partner Feedback:
Self-Rating (1-5 Stars):
Disclosure Debrief Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Mastering the Disclosure Decision
LESSON 4
Career Blueprint
Instructional Goal
Students will navigate the nuanced decision-making process of disability disclosure. They will weigh the pros and cons of disclosure and develop a professional "script" that focuses on their strengths and solutions rather than limitations. This lesson is critical for self-determination and workplace success.
Quick Stats
Duration: 60-90 Min
Approach: Discussion
Prep: Low
Pacing & Flow
15 MIN
Hook: The Dilemma
Use the Disclosure Dilemma Slides . Facilitate a "Four Corners" activity: place signs for "Interview," "First Day," "After a Problem," and "Never" in the corners of the room. Have students move to the corner that represents when they would disclose and explain why.
20 MIN
Pros/Cons Discussion
Discuss the risks and benefits of disclosure. Use real-world testimonials (if available) or create "Employee Cards" with different outcomes to show that there is no one "right" answer.
40 MIN
Scripting Workshop
Students draft their scripts on the Scripting My Story Worksheet . Ensure students follow the Strength-Challenge-Solution model. Emphasize that the solution should always come from the JAN database research in Lesson 3.
Pro-Tip: Framing the Challenge
"Encourage students to avoid using clinical terms like 'Diagnosis' or 'Disability' if they aren't comfortable. Instead, use functional language: 'I have difficulty with [Action].' This keeps the focus on the task and the solution, making the conversation feel more like a professional collaboration than a confession."
Differentiation Strategies
Support
Provide "Sentence Starters" for each of the three script parts. Offer to record the student's script on a device so they can listen back and self-correct.
Extension
Ask students to draft two scripts: one for a supportive boss and one for a skeptical boss. Discuss how the tone changes.
Workplace Wins Slides Career Blueprint: Lesson 5
Workplace
Wins
Mastering the soft skills that keep you hired and moving up.
Hired or Fired?
Scenario: Your alarm didn't go off. You are 30 minutes late for your shift. Your boss is already busy.
What do you do?
Text the manager ASAP, apologize, and offer to stay late.
Sneak in through the back and hope nobody notices.
Post a story on TikTok about how life is unfair.
Essential Question
What professional soft skills are most valued by employers, and how do I develop them?
The "Big Three"
RELIABILITY
Showing up on time and doing what you say you'll do.
COMMUNICATION
Asking questions when you're confused and giving updates.
COLLABORATION
Working well with people you might not like.
Your Portfolio is Ready.
Over the last 5 lessons, you have built a complete blueprint for your future.
Interest & Aptitude Map
Vocational Path Comparison
Accommodation Strategy
Professional Disclosure Script
EMPLOYABILITY LEVEL: MAX
You are ready for the workforce.
Today's Mission
1 Play the "Workplace Friction" Challenge.
2 Develop "Damage Control" Strategies.
3 Finalize your Career Blueprint Portfolio.
Soft Skill Scenarios Worksheet Workplace Friction
Lesson 5: Professional Soft Skills
Student:
Date:
1 The Reliability Ripple
When you are late or miss work, it affects more than just you. Use the diagram below to list three people at a typical job who are affected when an employee doesn't show up on time.
THE ABSENT WORKER
Impact 1:
Impact 2:
Impact 3:
2 Handling the Heat
Read each scenario and write a professional response. Remember: communication and accountability are key!
Scenario: The Critical Critique
COMMUNICATION
Your supervisor tells you that you did a task incorrectly in front of a coworker. You feel embarrassed and frustrated.
Professional Reaction (What would you say or do?):
Scenario: The Difficult Duo
COLLABORATION
You are paired with a coworker who isn't doing their fair share of the work. You are worried the job won't be finished on time.
Professional Reaction (What would you say or do?):
Blueprint Checklist
You have completed the Career Blueprint sequence! Check off the items you've added to your portfolio:
Interest Map
Vocational Plan
Accommodation Plan
Disclosure Script
Final Thought: What is the most important thing you learned about yourself?
Hired or Fired Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Developing Professional Soft Skills
LESSON 5
Career Blueprint
Instructional Goal
Students will define and practice critical workplace "soft skills"—reliability, communication, and collaboration. They will role-play professional responses to common workplace friction points, learning how to maintain employment and professional reputation during stressful situations.
Quick Stats
Duration: 60-90 Min
Approach: Game-Based
Prep: Low
Pacing & Flow
15 MIN
Hook: You're Hired/Fired
Use the Workplace Wins Slides . Read scenarios aloud. Have students use "Thumbs Up" (Hired) or "Thumbs Down" (Fired) to react to different employee choices. Focus on the why behind each reaction.
20 MIN
The Big Three Mini-Lecture
Define Reliability, Communication, and Collaboration. Use the slides to connect these skills back to the transition goals. Explain that for students with disabilities, "Reliability" is often the most important skill for keeping a job.
40 MIN
Friction Scenario Workshop
Students work on the Soft Skill Scenarios Worksheet . After writing their responses, have students role-play the scenarios with a partner. Encourage "Director's Cut" feedback: "How could you say that in a way that sounds even more professional?"
Culminating Action: The Career Portfolio
"As this is the final lesson, dedicate the last 15 minutes to having students assemble their work from all 5 lessons into a physical or digital folder. This 'Career Blueprint' becomes a tangible tool they can take to IEP meetings, vocational rehab appointments, or actual job interviews."
Differentiation Strategies
Support
Use "Script Cards" for the role-play activities so students don't have to generate dialogue on the fly. Provide visual icons for each of the "Big Three" skills.
Extension
Ask students to write their own "Hired or Fired" scenario based on a personal experience or a story they've heard, and then share it with the class for a vote.
