Our Business World
Inspiring Students to Become Canada’s Next Entrepreneurs
Volunteers from local businesses provide students with a first-hand look at how a business supports the community.
All Regions
Calgary & Airdrie: Grade 5
Other Regions: Grades 5 – 6
Other Regions: Grades 5 – 6
1 – 4 hour class
(1st period to lunch bell)
(1st period to lunch bell)
Canadian Business Entrepreneurs
During this interactive, in-class program students will:
- Learn why businesses are created and how they adapt to change
- Explore where customers come from and how to keep them
- Discuss how businesses impact the community and the environment
- Learn the history of some Canadian businesses and how they’ve changed over time
- Understand the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship
By the end of this program, students will see the power of the entrepreneurial spirit in Canada. This will inspire them to ask, "Do I have what it takes to become an entrepreneur?"
Teacher Info
COMMITMENT
- We request at least 3 hours of time in class
- Registration is required at least 6 weeks before your preferred program date (some exceptions may apply)
- JA volunteers are guest speakers; classroom supervision is required
LESSONS
- What is a Business?
- How do Businesses Benefit Communities?
- Why do Businesses Change?
- Could I be an Entrepreneur?
CURRICULUM LINKS
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Social Studies
- Health and Life Skills
BENEFITS
- Students learn from business leaders in the community
- Volunteers share real-life stories and experiences, making learning engaging and memorable
- Students develop confidence, leadership and critical thinking skills
Volunteer Info
COMMITMENT
- One-time volunteer commitment, or volunteer on as many occasions as you like
- Program training (90 minutes)
CLASSROOM
- A teacher will be present to help with classroom management
- Volunteer solo, with a friend, or with another JA volunteer
TRAINING
- New volunteers participate in a 90 minute training session at the JA office
- For corporate volunteer days, we’ll bring program training to you!
BENEFITS
- Volunteer hours can often be applied toward designations and professional development
- Work on your leadership, instructional, and public speaking skills
- Unique team building activity
Indigenous Info
The Our Business World program allows elementary students to explore how businesses are created and what makes them thrive. Using games and multimedia, students learn about innovation, start-ups and self-employment. Classroom volunteers transform key Indigenous concepts into a message that inspires and empowers students to believe in themselves, discover their potential, and can craft their future.
Your time commitment includes a 2 hour training session, and a morning or afternoon in the classroom. JA provides the materials and presentation supports, and you add your unique experiences, bringing the program to life!
JA Indigenous programs were developed in consultation with Indigenous advisors. Programs are culturally relevant to the context and learning styles of Indigenous youth, and meet the curriculum needs as aligned with Alberta Education’s Framework for Student Learning.