Skill Detective Slides Skill Detective
Identifying Your Invisible Strengths
Lesson 01
The Two Types of Skills
Hard Skills
Specific abilities you learn through training or school. They are easy to measure.
Typing 60 wpm
Cooking a burger
Operating a forklift
Soft Skills
People skills or "transferable" skills. How you work and interact with others.
Teamwork
Punctuality
Communication
Mission: Skill Detective
Your Objective
Watch the video of a typical fast-food shift. Don't look at the food—look at the people .
The Search
Find at least 5 "Invisible Skills" (Soft Skills) required to do this job successfully.
Teacher: Please provide a video link of a workplace (e.g., "A Day in the Life of a Fast Food Worker") to embed here.
The Power of "Transferable"
Soft Skills
Restaurant
Construction
Office Job
Retail
"If you have them here, you can take them anywhere."
Debrief
1
Which soft skill was most common in the video?
2
What happens to a restaurant if employees have "hard skills" but NO "soft skills"?
3
Which soft skill do you think YOU are best at right now?
Skill Detective Worksheet Skill Detective Worksheet
Vocational Skills Readiness • Lesson 01
Name:
Date:
Hard Skills are things you learn (like using a cash register). Soft Skills are how you work (like being helpful or arriving on time).
1 Case File: The Workplace Observation
Watch the video provided by your teacher. List the Soft Skills you see the workers using to keep the job running smoothly.
01
02
03
04
05
06
2 Personal Skill Blueprint
Check off the soft skills you already use in your daily life (at home, school, or with friends).
Punctuality
Teamwork
Organization
Listening
Flexibility
Problem Solving
Patience
Reliability
Positivity
Proof of Skill
Choose ONE skill you checked above. Give an example of a time you used it recently.
Skill:
Skill Discovery Teacher Guide Teacher Resource Lesson 01
Skill Discovery Guide
Identifying Transferable Soft Skills
Objective
Students will differentiate between hard and soft skills and identify 3+ personal transferable skills.
Duration
45-60 Minutes
Materials
Skill Detective Slides
Skill Detective Worksheet
Workplace Video Clip
Facilitation Steps
1
The Hook: Invisible Skills (10 min)
Introduce the term "Skill Detective." Explain that while we can see someone flipping a burger (hard skill), the invisible skills that make them a good employee are harder to spot. Play the video clip once without taking notes, then a second time while students complete Part 1 of the worksheet.
Pro-Tip for SpEd:
Pause the video at key moments (e.g., when a worker smiles at a customer or checks the clock) and ask: "What skill are they using right now?"
2
Definitions & The Power of "Transferable" (15 min)
Use the slides to define Hard vs. Soft skills. Focus on the word Transferable . Use the "Blueprint" analogy: a blueprint for a house can be used to build a house in New York or California. A soft skill like "being on time" works at a pizza shop and at a law office.
3
Personal Skill Blueprint (20 min)
Students complete Part 2 and 3 of the worksheet. They often struggle to see their own strengths. Circulate and provide concrete examples from their classroom behavior.
"I see you help your classmates with their tech—that's patience and communication ."
"You always have your binder ready—that's organization ."
Discussion Prompts
"If you had to hire someone, would you rather hire someone who knows how to use the computer but is always late, or someone who is always on time but needs to be taught how to use the computer?"
Goal: Highlight that soft skills are often harder to teach than hard skills.
"What is a soft skill you use at home that would be helpful at a job?"
Example: Taking care of a pet (reliability/responsibility).
Common Misconceptions
"I don't have any skills because I've never had a job."
Correction: Remind students that skills are built in school, sports, hobbies, and family chores.
"Soft skills aren't as important as 'real' skills like welding or coding."
Resume Roadmap Slides Resume Roadmap
Building Your Professional Identity
Lesson 02
The Resume Defined
It is...
A one-page document that summarizes your skills, education, and experience.
The Goal...
To convince an employer that you are the right person to interview for the job.
The 5 Core Sections
Contact Info
Name, Phone, Professional Email.
Objective
1-2 sentences about the job you want.
Education
Your school and expected grad date.
Experience
Jobs, volunteering, or chores.
Skills
Those soft skills we identified!
Upgrade Your Language
Use Action Verbs to describe your experience. They sound more professional!
Instead of...
"I helped customers"
"I did the cleaning"
"I was in charge of dogs"
Use...
"Assisted customers with needs"
"Maintained a clean workspace"
"Supervised animal care"
"But I don't have a job!"
Employers hiring high schoolers look for Potential , not just history. You have experience in:
Volunteering Clubs/Sports Babysitting Yard Work Classroom Jobs
Resume Template Worksheet My First Resume Template
Vocational Skills Readiness • Lesson 02
Project No.
RES-001
Full Name
Phone Number
Professional Email Address
City, State
Objective
(Example: To obtain a part-time position at a retail store where I can use my teamwork and organization skills.)
Education
School Name
Expected Grad Date
Experience & Volunteering
(Jobs, volunteering, school clubs, sports, or helping at home.)
Position / Role
Organization / Place
What did you do? (Use Action Verbs like: Assisted, Cleaned, Organized, Helped)
Position / Role
Organization / Place
Top Skills
(List the soft skills you identified in Lesson 1.)
Resume Builder Teacher Guide Teacher Resource Lesson 02
Resume Workshop Guide
Building a First Professional Draft
Objective
Students will identify core resume components and draft a professional resume using scaffolded prompts.
Duration
60-90 Minutes (may span 2 days)
Materials
Resume Roadmap Slides
Resume Template Worksheet
Action Verb Cheat Sheet (on slides)
Workshop Facilitation
1
The Hook: The Hiring Vote (15 min)
Display three example resumes (one messy, one nearly empty, one professional - see slides for visual cues). Ask: "If you were the boss at a game store, which of these people would you call for an interview?" Discuss why formatting and "fullness" matter.
2
Section-by-Section Drafting (40 min)
Walk through the template one section at a time. Do not move to "Experience" until everyone has completed their "Objective."
Scaffolding Objectives:
Provide fill-in-the-blank options: "To obtain a [job type] position at [company type] where I can use my [skill 1] and [skill 2] skills."
Professional Email Warning:
Discuss why "gamerguy2010@email.com " might not be as good as "first.last@email.com ".
3
The Action Verb Challenge (20 min)
Have students look at their "Experience" section. Can they swap out a boring word (like "did" or "was") for a strong action verb? Use the slides as a visual bank of verbs.
Differentiation Strategies
For Students with Writing Barriers
Allow students to use "Experience Cards" (pre-written bullet points for common teen jobs like babysitting or lawn mowing) that they can select and glue onto their draft.
For High-Flying Students
Challenge them to research a *real* local job posting and tailor their "Objective" and "Skills" specifically to that posting.
Critical Checkpoints
Is the contact information accurate and professional?
Did the student use at least 3 soft skills from Lesson 1?
Is the formatting consistent (no huge gaps or tiny text)?
Application Ace Slides Application Ace
Mastering the Mechanics of the Job Application
Lesson 03
The Format Matters
Paper Applications
Use BLUE or BLACK ink only.
No cross-outs or "white-out."
Print clearly (NEVER use cursive).
Online Applications
Many are TIMED! They log you out if you take too long.
Spelling errors might get you filtered out by a computer.
Always have your Resume ready to upload.
Your "Cheat Sheet"
Don't guess! Before you start an application, you need to know:
Social Security Number
Addresses of previous jobs
Phone numbers for 3 References
Personal Data Sheet
Keep this in your wallet or phone!
The "No-Hire" Mistakes
Leaving Blanks
If a question doesn't apply, write "N/A" (Not Applicable). Never leave a blank space.
Bad Attitudes
Reason for leaving previous job? Never write "boss was mean." Write "Looking for growth."
Messy Printing
If they can't read your phone number, they can't call you for an interview. Slow down.
Application Sprint
You have 15 minutes to complete a full practice application without errors. If you leave a blank, you are disqualified!
Go for the Gold (and the Job!)
Application Practice Documents Personal Data Sheet
My Master List of Information
Private File
Why do I need this? Most job applications ask for the same information. If you have this sheet filled out, you won't have to look up phone numbers or addresses while you are at the store or applying online!
A Personal Details
Social Security Number
Driver's License / ID Number
B References (People who can talk about your work)
Think of teachers, coaches, or family friends (NOT family members).
Full Name
Phone Number
Relationship (Teacher, Coach, etc.)
Full Name
Phone Number
C School Info
School Address
School Phone Number
Standard Application for Employment
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Last Name
First Name
Middle
Street Address
Phone Number
Social Security Number
Position Desired
Job Title
Date Available to Start
Employment Type:
Full Time
Part Time
Work History
Employer Name
City, State
Reason for Leaving
Employer Name
City, State
I certify that the information contained in this application is true and complete. I understand that false information may be grounds for not hiring me or for immediate termination of employment at any point in the future if I am hired.
Signature
Date
Application Mastery Teacher Guide Teacher Resource Lesson 03
Application Mastery Guide
Navigating Job Applications and Personal Data
Objective
Students will gather essential personal data and complete a error-free practice job application.
Duration
60 Minutes
Materials
Application Ace Slides
Personal Data Sheet
Practice Job Application
Facilitation Steps
1
The Personal Data Strategy (15 min)
Explain that modern job applications (especially online) are "stress tests." They are often timed to see how quickly and accurately you can work. Give students the Personal Data Sheet . Have them fill out what they know, and assign the rest as "research" (e.g., asking parents for their SSN or ID numbers).
2
Navigating "Tough" Questions (15 min)
Focus on the social pragmatics of the application. Use the slides to discuss:
Reason for Leaving: Practice phrases like "Seeking new challenges" or "Seasonal position ended."Salary Desired: Discuss writing "Open" or "Negotiable" instead of a specific dollar amount.Legal Questions: Discuss being honest but brief.
3
The Application Challenge (30 min)
Students use their Personal Data Sheet to complete the Practice Job Application . To make it realistic, set a timer for 15-20 minutes. Students must finish accurately before the buzzer sounds.
Success Checklist
Mechanical Checks
No blank spaces? (N/A used where appropriate)
No cursive used for printing?
Consistent ink color (Blue/Black)?
Professional Checks
"Reason for Leaving" is positive/neutral?
References have phone numbers listed?
Spelling of the company/school is correct?
Support Strategies
Highlighter Scaffolding: Highlight the specific boxes a student *must* fill out to reduce visual overwhelm on the form.Pre-Filled Stamps: For students with significant motor delays, use labels with their address and phone number pre-printed so they can "stick" them onto the form instead of writing.Digital Choice: If handwriting is a major barrier, allow the student to use a fillable PDF version of the application. Workplace Rules Slides The Unwritten Rules
Workplace Etiquette & Social Pragmatics
Lesson 04
Professional Behavior
"Etiquette is the set of social rules that help people work together without conflict."
Tech Use
Dress Code
Small Talk
The #1 Mistake
Checking your personal phone during work hours.
The Rule:
"If you aren't on a scheduled break, your phone should be in your locker or pocket—out of sight!"
Even if it's "just for a second!"
Detective Work: The Case of "Leo"
"Leo started his job at the grocery store on Monday. On Tuesday, he was 5 minutes late. On Wednesday, he wore a hoodie with a large cartoon on it instead of his store shirt. On Thursday, he told his boss, 'Man, this job is boring.' Friday morning, Leo was fired."
Punctuality Dress Code Attitude
What was Leo's biggest mistake? Could he have saved his job?
Dress for the Blueprint
Do This
Clean, wrinkle-free clothes.
Closed-toe shoes (Safety first!).
Shower and brush teeth.
Wear the provided uniform.
Not That
Pajamas or sweatpants.
Clothes with stains or holes.
Strong perfume or cologne.
Headphones in while working.
Case Study Analysis Worksheet Workplace Case Studies
Vocational Skills Readiness • Lesson 04
File Status
Action Required
Part 1: What Went Wrong?
Case #01: The Phone Call Retail Setting
"Sarah is stocking shelves at a craft store. Her phone buzzes in her pocket. It's her best friend. Sarah thinks, 'Nobody is in this aisle right now,' so she answers the phone and talks for two minutes about her weekend plans. Her manager walks around the corner while she is still talking."
1. What was the "Unwritten Rule"?
2. How could Sarah fix this?
Case #02: The Lunch Break Office Setting
"Marcus is on his 30-minute lunch break. He goes to the breakroom and heats up his food. While eating, he sees his coworker, Ms. Jenkins, who is busy typing an email. Marcus starts telling her a very loud and detailed story about a video game he played last night. Ms. Jenkins looks annoyed and gives short, one-word answers."
1. What social cue did Marcus miss?
2. What should Marcus do differently?
Case #03: The "Five Minutes" Fast Food Setting
"Jamal's shift starts at 4:00 PM. He pulls into the parking lot at exactly 4:00 PM. By the time he parks, walks in, hangs up his coat, and washes his hands, it is 4:08 PM. When he gets to the front, the line of customers is already long, and his coworkers look stressed."
1. Why is Jamal "late" even if he arrived at 4:00?
2. What is the rule for "on time" at work?
Part 2: Professional Self-Check
Be honest! Check the boxes for the skills you need to work on before you start a job.
Arriving 10 mins early
Ignoring my phone for 4 hours
Accepting feedback without getting mad
Keeping my clothes clean and professional
Etiquette Expert Teacher Guide Teacher Resource Lesson 04
Etiquette Expert Guide
Mastering Workplace Social Pragmatics
Objective
Students will identify "unwritten" workplace rules and analyze social errors through case studies.
Duration
60 Minutes
Materials
Workplace Rules Slides
Case Study Worksheet
Role-play props (optional)
Facilitation Steps
1
The Hook: "The Office" Analysis (10 min)
Show a short clip of a workplace comedy (e.g., *The Office*, *Parks and Rec*, or *Superstore*) where a character behaves inappropriately. Ask students: "Why is that funny? Why would that NOT be funny in a real job?"
2
The Unwritten Rule Game (20 min)
Use the slides to introduce rules that aren't usually in a handbook but are critical for success. Perform "Right vs. Wrong" role-plays:
Scenario: Handling a Mistake
Wrong: Shrugging and saying "It wasn't my fault."Right: "I'm sorry, I made a mistake. How can I fix it?"
Scenario: Cell Phone Use
Wrong: Texting while a customer is waiting.Right: Phone is off and in a locker during the shift.
3
Case Study Detective (20 min)
Students complete the worksheet. For the "Marcus" case study, discuss the concept of "Over-sharing" —an important social pragmatic skill for many SpEd students.
Questioning for Depth
"Can you be a 'good' worker (good at the hard skills) but still be a 'bad' employee? How?"
"Why is it harder to fix a 'social' mistake at work than it is to fix a 'mechanical' mistake?"
Key Vocabulary
Social Pragmatics
The unwritten rules of social interaction; knowing what to say and how to behave in different settings.
Professionalism
The conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a professional person at work.
Interview Ace Slides Interview Ace
The Final Step to Securing the Job
Lesson 05
The "Silent" Interview
An interviewer starts forming an opinion before you even say a word!
Eye Contact
Look at the speaker. It shows you are listening and confident.
Posture
Sit up straight. Lean in slightly to show interest.
Smile
Friendly energy makes people want to work with you.
Greeting
A firm handshake or a polite nod and "Hello."
The STAR Method
Use this for Behavioral Questions (e.g., "Tell me about a time you had a problem...")
S
Situation: Set the scene.
T
Task: What was the goal?
A
Action: What did YOU do?
R
Result: What happened in the end?
Example:
"Once, I was late for a group project (S). I had to catch up quickly (T). I stayed after school to finish my part (A). My group got an A on the project! (R)"
Top 3 Interview Questions
01
"Tell me about yourself."
Answer with: Your name, your school, and 2 soft skills you are proud of.
02
"Why do you want this job?"
Answer with: Something you like about the company or how your skills help them.
03
"Do you have any questions for me?"
ALWAYS say yes! Ask: "What is a typical day like here?" or "What do you like about working here?"
Mock Interview Challenge
Today, we practice. Be respectful. Give honest feedback. Every mistake today is a lesson for a real interview tomorrow!
Resume Ready
STAR Method Ready
Positive Attitude
Interview Feedback Documents STAR Cheat Sheet
Your Guide to Answering Behavioral Questions
S
Situation
Describe the scene . Where were you? When did this happen?
"Last year, I was working on a group poster for my biology class..."
T
Task
What was the goal or the problem you needed to solve?
"The poster was due the next day, but one of our group members was sick..."
A
Action
What did YOU specifically do? Use those action verbs!
"I organized the remaining tasks and completed the final drawing myself..."
R
Result
What was the outcome ? How did it end?
"We turned the project in on time and earned an 'A' for our teamwork!"
Keep it brief! (60-90 seconds)
Mock Interview Feedback
Reviewer: ________________________
Candidate Name
___________________
1. First Impressions (Non-Verbal)
Good Posture
Y
N
Eye Contact
Y
N
Professional Greeting
Y
N
No Fidgeting
Y
N
2. Verbal Responses
"Tell me about yourself"
Response Strength:
Used STAR Method for behavioral question?
Clarity:
3. Final Thoughts
One thing they did great:
One thing to work on:
Interview Master Teacher Guide Teacher Resource Lesson 05
Interview Master Guide
Facilitating the Mock Interview Simulation
Objective
Students will demonstrate interview readiness through a mock interview simulation using the STAR method.
Duration
90 Minutes (may require multiple days)
Materials
Interview Ace Slides
STAR Cheat Sheet
Feedback Forms
Facilitation Steps
1
STAR Practice Game (20 min)
Give a sample problem (e.g., "I forgot my lunch"). Ask students to provide one part of the STAR answer. One student gives the Situation , the next the Task , etc. This builds the muscle memory for the structure without the pressure of a full interview.
2
The Simulation Set-Up (10 min)
Arrange the room with two chairs facing each other in "interview pods." Assign roles: Candidate, Interviewer, and Observer (if in groups of 3). Candidates should have their **Resume (from Lesson 2)** and **STAR Cheat Sheet** with them.
3
The Mock Interviews (40 min)
Interviews should last 5-7 minutes. Observers/Interviewers complete the Feedback Form . Rotate roles every 10 minutes to ensure everyone gets a turn to be the candidate.
Sequence Summative Rubric
Criteria Emerging Proficient Exemplary Preparation No resume or data sheet. Has draft resume and data sheet. Professional resume with action verbs. Communication Low volume/no eye contact. Audible voice; intermittent eye contact. Clear voice; consistent eye contact. STAR Content Answers are "Yes/No". Attempts STAR structure. Full STAR response with specific action.
Supporting Diverse Learners
For Non-Verbal Students:
The "Interview" can focus on the Application and Resume. If they use AAC, pre-program STAR responses into their device based on their identified skills from Lesson 1.
For High Anxiety:
Allow "Open Book" interviews where they can read their STAR responses from a pre-written card until they feel comfortable.
