Get a Job

Project URL:
http://www.teachnet-lab.org/hornik/job/jobindex.htm
 
How it works:
What does it take to get a job that will lead to a successful career path? This WebQuest helps students identify positions on the job market and career interests, and understand the application and interview process. The students first take career interest surveys and then locate positions using the New York State Department of Labor website. They then create resumes and cover letters. Finally, they research tips for having a positive interview experience and create a thank-you letter to an interviewer.

Standards addressed:  
Students use information technology to assist in gathering, organizing, and presenting information. They compose correspondence such as a resume, cover letter and thank-you letter in a style appropriate to the purpose of the correspondence, and learn from models to assist in conducting project activities. They demonstrate a basic understanding of the rules of the English language in written work, and analyze and subsequently revise work to improve its clarity and effectiveness.

Materials used: 
Computers with Internet access, a word processing application such as Word or AppleWorks, and a printer are required.

The students:
Get A Job! is designed for high school students. Proficiency in Internet research and word processing is beneficial.

Overall value:
Along with academic and social skills, it is important for students to know how to effectively research, apply for, and land a job that will place them onto a successful career path. Students explore career options, develop skills in writing business letters and oral communication, and effectively use the Internet as a research tool.

Tips: 
When students take the career interest survey, stress that the interests, skills, and jobs that exist now will probably change as students mature and as the economy changes. When they are actually ready to find a job, they will need to retake these surveys.

Carolyn Hornik has been a New York City public school teacher for twenty five years (12 years as a classroom teacher in third, fourth, and fifth grades and 13 years as a technology coordinator.) She teaches in-service courses for the New York City Board of Education After School Professional Development Program and on-line courses for new teachers through Teachers Network.

Chornik@aol.com

Estimated Class Periods To Complete: 10 or more

Subject: English, Social Studies

Beginning Grade Level: 4

Ending Grade Level: 8