Overview
Middle School learners will apply the 4 P’s of marketing to create and market a viable product. Components of financial literacy such as: market share, the role of investors, and the definition of a stock will be explained using the example of a business case for the cereal company, Kellogg’s. In small groups, students will work together and create a unique type of cereal that will appeal to their chosen demographic.
NB Curricular Connections
English Language Arts (Grades 6-8):
- Strand: Reading – Big Idea: Vocabulary – Skill Descriptor: Recognize how different strategies are used to determine the meanings of words
- Strand: Interactions – Big Idea: Expression – Skill Descriptor: Express and support ideas and opinions with evidence; Understand communication for a diverse set of audiences
Visual Arts (Grades 6-8):
- Strand: Create –Big Idea: Application and Product –Skill Descriptor: Create and present expressive work in visual arts for a range of audiences and purposes using a variety of art media including technology
What You’ll Need
- PowerPoint Presentation
- Card Stock Paper
- 1 Cereal box per group of four students
- Markers
- Tape
- Glue
Instructions
- Ask learners to brainstorm what the 4 P’s (Product, Price, Place, Promotion) of marketing could stand for. What are important factors to consider when developing and business and selling a product or service? Have learners find a partner to share their ideas with.
- Using slide #2 of the PowerPoint Presentation (included), unveil the meaning of each of the “P’s”
- Through whole-class discussion, consider the questions posed on slides #3-7 about each of the 4 P’s of marketing. These questions will be used as the basis for their project Cereal Craze which requires them consider what their product will be, how it will be priced, promoted and where they intend to sell it.
- Divide learners into groups of 3-4 students. Once in groups, ask learners to make a list of the factors or qualities that people might think about when they purchase cereal.
- List the demographics of the people who typically purchase cereal. What types of ingredients would appeal to which demographic? For example, children might long for sugary cereals while health-conscious adults prefer low sugar/high protein.
- Based on your answers for the above, create a cereal product that will complement Kellogg’s existing brands and be successful in the marketplace. On a white piece of paper or using computer software, design the box front of your new product. Include an original brand name and a visual design that will be attractive to potential customers.
- Prepare a short presentation to the class that will describe your new cereal product, the factors or qualities that will lead to customers purchasing your product, and the elements of your package design. (Apply what you have learned about the 4P’s of Marketing when creating your pitch)
Extension ideas
Social Entrepreneurship – Teaching the concept of social entrepreneurship to students is essential for many reasons: social awareness, problem solving skills, global citizenship and ethical decision making. Encourage learners to brainstorm ways to incorporate social entrepreneurship into the development and marketing of their cereal.
For example:
- Use eco-friendly packaging materials, minimize waste, and promote recycling.
- Ensure that ingredients are sourced responsibly.
- Donate a portion of profits to a local charity
Reflection Tool
Please see the attached PDF for several choices on how you and your learners can reflect on today’s activity.
Global Competencies
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Critical thinking and Problem-solving
- Innovation, creativity, and Entrepreneurship
- Self Awareness and Self-management
