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- If you have ever wondered if you are interested in a career in business or are just curious about why things happen in the economy or in your place of work, I highly recommend enrolling in this class. This survey course covers a wide range of topics that will aid you in understanding business functions and the world around you. There will be lots of discussion and constant reference to what is currently happening in the real world. Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 is recommended.
- Textbook: We will be using Entrepreneurship - Owning Your Future, by Mariotti, 11th edition, ISBN 978-0135128442. Amazon link You don't need to buy the Student Activity Workbook. The class will use lots of handouts and internet sources.
- Supplies: You will need a calculator (TI-30Xa is perfect, $10), and various types of graph paper throughout the course Printfreegraphpaper.com.
- You will need access to a relatively modern computer with internet connection. A computer less than 5 years old should suffice. You will need a webcam and mike to participate in the class.
- Homework: You'll be turning in your homework on Canvas. You will receive a join code.
Course Outline
1st Semester
Unit 1: Introduction to Entrepreneurship (Ch. 1)
In this Unit, we will look at the characteristics of the successful entrepreneur, as well as begin discussing what businesses need to succeed.
In this Unit, we will look at the characteristics of the successful entrepreneur, as well as begin discussing what businesses need to succeed.
Case Studies: The Jetson ONE and JetSuit are good examples of entrepreneurial thinking. We will discuss what goes into creating and developing (and funding!) new products like these.
Ch. 1 Review questions Instructions: Answer questions #1-12 in "Check your understanding", plus problem #18 in "Business Ethics". To save time, photocopy the page in your book, circle your answers, and upload that to Canvas. Question #18 will require a typed response. Class presentation: "Don't just start a business, solve a problem!"
Do internet research on a business of your choosing - it can be a startup, or a large business. Prepare a 5-minute PowerPoint (or Prezi) presentation describing the ways in which this business solves a problem through its product or service. You will present it at class. A 5-minute presentation typically uses 5-10 slides. Rehearse it so it's exactly 5 minutes +/-. www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/dont-just-start-a-business-solve-a-problem/236522 | |||||
Unit 2: The Economy (Ch. 2)
In this Unit, we will compare and contrast a 'command economy' with a 'free-market economy', and discuss competition, supply and demand, global trade, and how to read a profit & loss statement.
In this Unit, we will compare and contrast a 'command economy' with a 'free-market economy', and discuss competition, supply and demand, global trade, and how to read a profit & loss statement.
YETI Case Study: YETI Coolers www.yeti.com was started 10 years ago by brothers Roy & Ryan Seiders. Their market growth has been phenomenal, and the Wall Street Journal just announced (see below) their company was valued at $5 Billion! We will discuss...
Ch. 2 Review questions
Instructions: Answer questions #1-12 in "Check your understanding", plus problem #16 in "Business Math" and problem #18 in "Business Ethics". To save time, photocopy the page in your book, circle your answers, and upload that to Canvas. Question #16 will require a nice neat graph, and #18 will require a typed response. Free graph paper is at www.printfreegraphpaper.com. | |||||||||
Unit 3: Types of Business Organizations (Ch. 3)
Here, we learn about the four main types of businesses, as well as the three basic ways a business can be legally structured - and the pros and cons of each.
Here, we learn about the four main types of businesses, as well as the three basic ways a business can be legally structured - and the pros and cons of each.
"The Sharing Economy"
Scooter-sharing has sprung up all over! We will take a look at their business model and crunch some numbers to see if it makes any money. We will also see if the "juicers" (the rechargers) can actually make money....
Ch. 3 Review questions
Instructions: Answer questions #1-12 in "Check your understanding", plus questions 18 & 19 on the following page. To save time, photocopy the page in your book, circle your answers, and upload that to Canvas. Questions 18 & 19 will require a typed response. | |||||||||||
Unit 4: Opportunity Recognition (Ch. 6)
In this unit, we will discuss how to create a business plan, and how to identify opportunies for a new business.
In this unit, we will discuss how to create a business plan, and how to identify opportunies for a new business.
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We will learn
Apple Case Study
Apple Computer, founded by Steve Jobs, is a classic example on "recognizing opportunities" and coming up with creative products that changed the world.
Ch. 6 Review questions
Instructions: Answer questions #1-12 in "Check your understanding", plus questions 17 & 18 on the following page. To save time, photocopy the page in your book, circle your answers, and upload that to Canvas. Questions 17 & 18 will require a typed response. Elevator Pitch Prepare a 1-minute elevator pitch on a business idea of your choice. Be prepared to give your pitch at an upcoming class. You must include the "Three C's" in your pitch (see p. 141). You may choose a well known product, or come up with one of your own.
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Unit 5: Market Research (Ch. 7)
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Case Study: Aptera Motors
An excellent example of "targeting" and "product differentiation" https://www.aptera.us/ Starting a car company requires financing. This is how Aptera Motors initially hoped to gain investors: https://wefunder.com/aptera
Market Research focuses on 3 areas
1. The business environment
2. Your customers
3. Your competition
Case Study: Apple iPhone "1"
Steve Jobs introducing the iPhone in 2008. This is one of the most iconic product roll-outs in history! This product made Apple the most valuable company in the world. Watch the video in class:
Ch. 7 Review questions
Instructions: Answer questions #1-12 in "Check your understanding", plus question #16 on the following page. To save time, photocopy the page in your book, circle your answers, and upload that to Canvas. Question 16 will require a separate response.
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Unit 6: Marketing Your Product (Ch. 8)
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Marketing is how you present your business to customers. You are communicating the value proposition of your product or service.
We will discuss these key concepts in class:
Case Study: Tesla's marketing strategy
Tesla Motors was launched by Elon Musk, who made his initial fortune creating the firm "PayPal". In the video below, Mr. Musk recounts the whole marketing strategy of Tesla from its beginning. Incorporating your Business
You will complete the legal forms to create a California Corporation, and present them to the class via webinar.
Ch. 8 Review questions
These are hosted in Canvas as multiple-choice. Refer to due date there. Executive Summary Business Plan assignment
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Unit 7: Selling Your Product (Ch. 9)
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"Nothing happens until someone SELLS something" - Peter Drucker, famous management consultant
Characteristics of a successful salesperson:
Classroom Case Study: Cybertruck and Rivian electric trucks
Compare the 'sales pitch' given by CEO's Elon Musk and R.J. Scaringe. Then compare to a more-polished salesperson. How do they:
Sales homework
These are hosted in Canvas as multiple-choice. See the due date there. Self-Motivation video
Ch. 9 Review questions
These are hosted in Canvas as multiple-choice. Refer to due date there. |
Unit 8: Business Decisions (Ch. 10)
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Case Study: Eli's Cheesecake Company
We will look at how entrepreneurs make decisions around costs involved with running their business. Reading assignment
Read Ch. 10 Topics
Ch. 10 Business Decisions review questions
These are now hosted in Canvas. | |||
Unit 9: Financial Statements (Ch. 11)
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Things to know
The Income Statement shows a company's performance over a given time period (1 month, for example) The Balance Sheet shows a company's standing at a given point in time (Dec. 31st, for example) The Cash Flow Statement shows the flow of cash in-and-out, and the current cash balance (cash-on-hand) A business prepares the above 3 documents at least every month, for 1) the Bank and other Lenders, and 2) for inside management to examine A Calendar Year runs Jan 1st thru Dec 31st A Fiscal Year can occupy any 12-month period (July 1st thru Jun 30th, for example) Profit and Loss Statement is just another name for "Income Statement" Ch. 11 Review Questions
The Ch. 11 "Check Your Understanding" questions are hosted in Canvas. |
Midterm Exam
This is a take-home, open-book exam, covering 1st semester material. It is worth 33 percent of your semester grade. You may use your book and the Internet for resources. Do your own work. KEEP THE SAME NUMBERING!
This is a take-home, open-book exam, covering 1st semester material. It is worth 33 percent of your semester grade. You may use your book and the Internet for resources. Do your own work. KEEP THE SAME NUMBERING!
| business_management_&_entrepreneurship_midterm_exam_2023.docx |
2nd Semester
Unit 10: Financial Ratios & Breakeven Analysis (Ch. 12)
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Things to Know
Graphing
Ratios derived from Income Statement
Ratios derived from Balance Sheet
Liquidity Ratios
Measuring Return
Break-Even Point
California Electric Vehicles - Income Statement analysis
Ch. 12 Review Questions
The Ch. 12 "Check Your Understanding" questions are hosted in Canvas. | |||||
Unit 11: Financing Your Business (Ch. 13)
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Sources of Funding listed from 'easy' to 'complicated'
Bank Loan Application exercise
https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans https://caweb.sba.gov/library/pdf/Form1920_Lenders_Application.pdf https://www.opusbank.com/stream/forms/business-banking-loan-application.pdf California Electric Vehicle, Inc - Balance Sheet analysis
Turn in your completed work on Canvas.
Ch. 13 Review Questions
The Ch. 13 "Check Your Understanding" questions are hosted in Canvas. | |||||
Unit 12: Recordkeeping & Accounting (Ch. 14)
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Assigned reading
Ch. 14 Know these business documents
T-Accounts
"Money & Banking" class experiment
Ch. 14 Review Questions
These are hosted on Canvas CEV Marketing Plan assignment Begin a marketing plan for the 'E-Truck'! Turn in your completed work on Canvas.
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Unit 13: Staffing Your Business (Ch. 15)
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Assigned reading
Ch. 15 Know the basic types of Organizational Structures Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Corporation Line vs. Staff personnel Project or "Matrix" structure Be aware of the costs of hiring someone Wages, incentives, payroll taxes, paid holidays, benefits Recruiting & Hiring Indeed, LinkedIn, Monster, CareerBuilder, and company job boards How to write a job description How to write a resume Types of compensation Salary Hourly wage Benefits Union vs Open shop, and Prevailing Wage (Davis Bacon) How to train employees Coach and train them tirelessly Shadowing w/another employee Job training services, Comm'y College Apprenticeship In-house training Theories of workforce motivation (compare & contrast)
How to build a company
How to motivate employees (some random ideas)
How to be an inspiring leader
Steve Case, AOL founder, used these (3)
Organizational Chart assignment
This is hosted on Canvas Ch. 15 Review Questions Hosted on Canvas Performance Review assignment
Instructions are in Canvas. Here are a few examples, but DO YOUR OWN!
Company Research Assignment
"Leadership Styles" class presentation
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Unit 14: Protecting Your Business: Legal Issues (Ch. 16)
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Intellectual Property - "Intangibles"
Copyright Patents - 1. novel, 2. non-obvious, 3. useful Trademarks/Service Marks Trade Secrets 
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Contracts - (4) necessary elements
Lucy vs. Zehmer - a famous 'contract' example: 
Insurance
Ch. 16 Legal Issues - Review Questions
These are hosted in Canvas Virus Pandemic Business Shutdown scenario
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Unit 15: Taxes and Regulations (Ch. 17)
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All the Federal & State data here: https://www.usgovernmentspending.com/
2023 Federal Income Tax for Corporations is 21% 2023 California Income Tax for Corporations is 8.84% 
Businesses pay Federal AND State taxes
Government Regulations
Deadliest Industrial Accidents report (Workplace Safety research assgmt)
Research one of the "Deadliest Workplace Accidents" from the list below. Make a management-style report, or a PowerPoint, on the incident. You must discuss the following:
1860 Pemberton Cotton Mill factory collapse 1878 Washburn Flour Mill dust explosion 1900 Pleasant Valley Coal Mine black powder explosion 1902 R.B. Grover shoe factory collapse and burning 1902 Fraterville Coal Mine methane gas explosion 1907 Monongah Mine underground explosion 1909 Lake Michigan water intake tunnel construction project, powder magazine explosion and fire 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory garment fire and 10th story window jumping 1919 Great Molasses Flood from burst storage tank at Purity Distilling Co. 1935 Wilkes-Barre Miners crushed when large boulder crashes down a shaft You can find others... Ch. 17 Taxes and Regulations - Review Questions
Hosted in Canvas |
Unit 16: What is Management? (Ch. 18)
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In this Unit, we discuss the 'Four Functions of Management'
We compare 'Leadership' vs. 'Management', and examine the qualities needed for both. We contrast the "Three Leadership Styles"
We also compare "Theory X" and "Theory Y" management styles, and discuss when each might be appropriate. We learn how to create a "Gantt Chart" for managing a project, as well as a "Cash Flow" spreadsheet Finally, we discuss the factors contributing to a "Toxic work environment" vs. a Healthy, Positive Company Culture.
Ch. 18 Management - Review Questions
These are hosted in Canvas Leadership & Motivation ranking What motivates people to follow a leader? Rank these according to "importance", and provide a brief explanation for each one stating why you ranked it in the order your did.
TESLA Covid-Reopening assignment
During the 2020 lockdowns, Elon Musk announced he was reopening his large Fremont, CA car factory, stating, "Tesla is restarting production today against Alameda County rules. I will be on the line with everyone else. If anyone is arrested, I ask that it only be me." (Do a search on "Tesla reopening factory")
You will need the "Interim Guidance for Employers" found on p. 56-59: https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/6889330-Guidance-for-Opening-Up-America-Again-Framework.html?fbclid=IwAR1R-cU5uuAB6TxOYlkS_jkp0H7B4dzzAYhDwtLM7jmTS_jrmovUvg-vlhc Write a 1-2 page "memo" to your management:
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Unit 17: Managing Production, Distribution, and Operations (Ch. 19)
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Production
Distribution
Operations (this book means "Back-office operations")
Ch. 19 Review Questions (Production & Operations)
These are hosted in Canvas |
Unit 18: Making Your Business Grow (Ch. 21)
Types of Growth
Product Life Cycle
Four Growth Strategies (see Ansoff chart, above)
Vertical Integration
Horizontal Integration
Ch. 21 Review Questions (Making Your Business Grow)
These are hosted in Canvas |
Final Exam
This is a take-home, open-book-style exam, covering material we studied in class. It is worth 33 percent of your semester grade. You may use your book and the Internet for resources. DO YOUR OWN WORK. Upload to Canvas by the due date.
This is a take-home, open-book-style exam, covering material we studied in class. It is worth 33 percent of your semester grade. You may use your book and the Internet for resources. DO YOUR OWN WORK. Upload to Canvas by the due date.
| business___entrepreneurship_-_final_exam_2023.docx |