DECA Ontario Training Manual 9 WEEK TRAINING ROUTINE FOR SUCCESS

DECA Ontario
Training Manual
9 WEEK TRAINING ROUTINE FOR SUCCESS
DECA ONTARIO STUDENT OFFICER TEAM 2013-2014
DECA ONTARIO | 100 Richmond Street West. Suite 341. Toronto, Ontario. M5H 3K6
Jerry Zhang
DECA Ontario
100 Richmond Street West, Suite 341
Toronto, Ontario M5H 3K6
Dear DECA-migo,
Originally, I was going to begin this letter with something like, “Dear Chapter Executive,”
or, “Dear DECA Trainer,” but I realized that went against everything this training manual
is for.
We created this revised training manual because we wanted to make DECA training
resources and guidance accessible to everyone across Ontario. Whether you are a
Chapter President or a first-year member, this training manual is for you.
DECA Ontario dominates and sets records every year at the International competition.
DECA competition to Ontario is as track is to the Jamaican Olympic team.
We enjoy relentlessly demonstrating our superiority each year. This year, we hope to
take even more trophies, medals, and scholarships back onto Canadian soil. After all,
beavers and maple syrup are so much cooler than eagles and Big Mac sauce.
All joking aside though, this training manual is meant not as a curriculum that you must
follow to attain success. Rather, it is something that we think you can reference every
time you are looking for an activity to run or a concept to teach or learn.
Use it well. I believe in you.
#decaLOVE
Jerry Zhang
Below is the layout of the nine lessons:
Lesson
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Topic of Focus
Marketing Concepts: How to apply to roleplays
The Product Markets: How to apply to roleplays
Multiple Choice Testing: How to write the exams
Performance Indicators: What to do with them
Case Studies: How to do and set up a mock case study
Professionalism and Etiquette: How to prepare for DECA
Going the Extra Mile: Presentation training and being in character
Cluster-based Training: how to categorize and what to expect
Competition Boot Camp: Review of the basics
Table of Contents
Lesson One: Marketing Concepts ............................................................................................. 1
Lesson Two: The Product Markets............................................................................................ 5
Lesson Three: Multiple Choice Testing ..................................................................................10
Lesson Four: Performance Indicators .....................................................................................13
Lesson Five: Case Studies .......................................................................................................16
Lesson Six: Professionalism and Etiquette ............................................................................19
Lesson Seven: Going the Extra Mile .......................................................................................25
Lesson Eight: Cluster-based Training .....................................................................................29
Lesson Nine: Competition Boot Camp....................................................................................32
Other Resources ........................................................................................................................35
Important DECA Ontario Dates................................................................................................36
Stay Connected ..........................................................................................................................37
Lesson One: Marketing Concepts
Purpose
To introduce delegates to some of the basic concepts of marketing through the use
of various group discussions and activities. The use of business content is
extremely important when presenting a role play in order to form adequate ideas
and knowing how to approach your situation.
Preparation and Resources Required:
Task
Time
Assigned to… Complete by: Required
Create
Chapter
handouts for
president
meeting
suggestions in
the lesson
Meeting day
20 Minutes
Print handouts Executive
or meeting
Member
Meeting Day
5 Minutes
Send reminder Chapter
email for
president
meeting
2 days before
meeting day
5 Minutes
Understand all All executive
meeting
members
information
Meeting day
10 Minutes
Meeting day
5 Minutes
Collect a
product
package for
analysis
Executive
Member
Other notes
One for each
member
Go over all
aspects of
training at
your executive
meeting prior
1
Introduction Activity/Ice Breaker: Elevator Pitch
Duration: 10 Minutes
This game may come off as confusing, but I assure you this will be one of the more
interesting icebreakers. The objective of this game is to sell a product. You will select a
member from your chapter to head outside of the room (out of earshot). The remaining
members in the room will select a product (e.g. toothpaste). The member sent outside
will then come back into the room and stand in front of the chapter. The chapter will
then continue to ask the member at the front questions about the product. The member
is still unaware of what he/she is selling, but has to answer questions in a way that will
convince the chapter to buy the product. This is a confusing and chaotic game that has
value (trying to sell the product), and is guaranteed for a few laughs.
Introduction
Duration: 15 minutes
Begin the lesson by holding up a package of a product and have the class point out its
notable features.
Ask simple questions about the product:
o How much do you think this product costs? Who is their competition?
o Can you name similar products? How do they distinguish themselves
from others?
o Where can you purchase this product?
o When did you first hear of this product?
After a small list has formed on the blackboard, sort the words into the categories:
Product, Price, Place and Promotion.
Lesson
Duration: 25 minutes
Introduce the Marketing Mix, highlight key points and go into more detail.
Tip: Make real life connections to common brands
2
Category
Features
Product (includes goods and services)
 Can be tangible or intangible
 Product Lifecycle (Talk about all
phases [Intro, Growth, Maturity,
Decline, Decision Point], list
products and get class to guess
which stage their at. E.g.iPhone, Pet Rock, Backstreet
Boys CD, Crocs etc. Use
products from every stage)
 Quality
 Features and Benefits of product
 Packaging
 Pricing competition
 Pricing strategy
 Discounts
 Channels of Distribution
 Coverage (is it available
everywhere?)
 Locations
 Inventory
 Advertising
 Personal Selling
 Publicity
 Sales promotion
(Don’t take too much time with
promotion, introduce and discuss. It is
possible to run a whole lesson on the
Promotional Mix)
Price
Place
Promotion (promotional mix)
Reflection: Choose a brand, go over all aspects of the marketing mix.
Example: Coca Cola
Product: Beverage, originally came in a glass bottle. The bottle is shaped to
represent a woman’s body so it appeals to all, giving it a sleek figure. Lifecycle:
Maturity. Extremely good quality.
Price: Priced competitively; one of the first soft drinks so other companies used
Cokes price as a benchmark.
Place: Any convenience store, restaurant, etc.; sold globally.
Promotion- Strong supporter of the Olympics and promoted on almost all forms of
media.
3
Activity
Duration: 20 minutes
Split the class into groups of about 4-5. Give each group a piece of chart paper, and a
marker. Give them 15 minutes to create a product, and highlight each aspect of the 4
P’s. Give each group 1 minute to present their creation. (If there is a time constraint,
provide the different products for each group to classify).
Debrief Questions
Duration: 10 minutes





What do each of the P’s stand for the Marketing Mix? 
Name one characteristic of each P. 
Now that the chapter has a better understanding of the 4 P’s, re-exhibit
the original package and ask them to list more characteristics relating to
the Marketing Mix. 
Homework
Research a product and create a table of the 4 P’s as done in the class.
Include at least 3 different points for every ‘P’.
4
Lesson Two: The Product Markets
Purpose of the Topics of Focus and Summary of the Activities:
While the basic marketing principles such as the '4 Ps of Marketing' are necessary to
compete effectively in DECA, it takes more than that to deliver an excellent, 90 +
presentation. In our very fast-changing world, combing the elements of products in our
current markets, and their fluctuating supplies and demands may be helpful to consider
in a role-play situation. Understanding business terms and concepts, and knowing
where and when to apply them are fundamental elements to any presentation.
Preparation and Resources Required:
Task
Assigned
to…
Complete by: Time
Required
Other notes
Create a
PowerPoint to
present to the
members
All Execs
Day before
the meeting.
20 minutes
A PowerPoint
presentation about
the Product Life
Cycle and the other
Supply and Demand
graphs.
Print handouts
for meeting
(located on p.9)
Send
reminder
email for
meeting
Cluster
Leader
Meeting Day
10 minutes
Cluster
Leader
2 days before
meeting day
5 minutes
Prepare for a
mock roleplay
Cluster
Leader
Meeting Day
20 minutes
Print out one
copy for each
member and
have extras
on hand.
5
Compile a
mini- glossary
All Executives
Print out one
per member.
Make it
available
online.
Introduction Activity/Ice Breaker: Name that ...
Duration: 10 minutes
Compile a list of all the logos, keywords and tags of Social Media, new age technology
st
and new marketing words that have been developed during the 21 century.
1. Give everybody a piece of paper to name from 1-20.
2. People who get perfect will receive a small prize.
3. Ask people to describe the significance and the use of the buzz words.
Main Activity: Product Analysis
Duration: 30 minutes
1) Give each student one of the handouts (found below). First, review the
previous week’s lesson on the 4 P’s to refresh their memory.
2) Introduce the product life cycle to the class. Be sure to highlight each
stage of the five cycles. Use an example to give a thorough explanation
(iPad, SillyBandz, etc.)
The Product Life Cycle
Development
Introduction
Growth
Maturity












Product is prepared to be introduced to the market
No product sales have been made yet
Considered the “incubation period”
Period when product is first introduced to the market
People are still unaware of the product
Overall sales remain low
Advertising costs are very high and create brand awareness
Usually product prices remain high
Sales begin to rapidly increase
More retailers want to carry the product
Product quality improves (ex. packaging)
Advertising increases to grow preferential branding





Most profitable stage of the cycle
Sales increase, but at a slower pace than before
Product differentiation is explored and introduced
New resellers and distribution channels
Advertising focuses on brand loyalty
6
 Change in customer preferences, technology or
market can lead to product decline
 Number of products produced declines
 Lower prices on product
 Less resellers carry the product
 No real advertising; may reinforce brand image
Decline
3) Explain and define the terms: supply, demand and equilibrium. Use the
graphics associated with the terms if you feel necessary. Have the
students create their own mini-glossary of terms, or post one online for
future reference.
Supply and Demand
Supply
 The amount of a product which is
made available to consumers
 If factors remain constant, the
higher the price of the product, the
more quantity supplied
 Is directly related
Demand
 The amount of products which are
wanted by consumers
 If factors remain constant, the
higher the price of the product, the
less demand it will accumulate
 Is inversely related
Equilibrium
 The point of intersection of the
supply and demand graphs
 The time at which supply and
demand are equal
 A point of satisfaction for both
buyers and consumers
7
4) The executive team performs a sample role play for the class, making
use of some of the key business concepts explored over the last two
lessons.
5) Have the students identify and keep a list of how some of the business
terms were effectively used in the role-play scenario.
Debrief Questions:
Duration: 10 minutes
1) When might you apply the supply and demand graphs for a presentation?
2) How would you tie these key business concepts in with the performance
indicators?
3) Make a list of key business terms that could be used during roleplays.
Homework or Extension, Extra Tips:
o At home, research 3 articles relevant to your category and identify the
associated key business terms. If you are unfamiliar with their definitions, look
them up and update your personal glossary.
8
LESSON 2 - Handout
This lesson covers:
Let’s review
the concept
discussed in
Lesson 1 …





Marketing Mix
Product Life Cycle
Supply
Demand
Equilibrium
MARKETING MIX
PRODUCT LIFE CYCLE
(also known as the 4 P`s of marketing)
P _________________
P _________________
P _________________
P _________________
SUPPLY AND DEMAND
9
Lesson 3: Multiple Choice Testing
Purpose of the Topic of Focus and Summary of the Activities:
The focus for this week will be on preparation and practice for the Multiple Choice
Testing. The week will begin with a simple ice breaker that is great for both getting to
know your chapter and highlighting positive statements. Students will then break off into
their cluster groups and complete a portion of a ‘mock’ multiple choice test. The focus
for the meeting is to give students a feel for the multiple choice testing and practice
their decision-making skills. This website provides all the categories and the clusters:
http://2013.deca.ca/competitive-events/ . Practice is key for student success in DECA.
Preparation and Resources Required:
Includes resources such as rooms, people, technology, stationary, etc.
Task
Assigned to…
Complete
by:
Time Required
Other notes
Print multiple Cluster Leaders Day before
choice tests
meeting
according to
student’s
clusters for
main activity
Refer to
Advisor
Send
reminder
email for
meeting
Vice President,
Secretary,
Treasurer, etc.
Date:
Print
answers for
each cluster
test
Cluster Leaders Day prior to
the day they
will be
posted
Post answers President
in a
convenient
location.
Week before
meeting,
night before
meeting
Day of
meeting
Time:
Place:
Include long
answers
Refer to
Advisor for
sample tests
and answers
Tell students
this location
during the
10
Introduction Activity/Ice Breaker: Two Lies, One Truth
Duration: 10 minutes or less
Each student should write down three statements about themself. For example, “I
have attended 6 schools,” “I have a 12 year old sister,” and “I recently travelled to
California”. The catch is, only one of these statements is correct. The students then
share their three statements with each other, or the entire class, and decide which one
is true based on an elimination process. They must pick out the truth, or the positive
statement, and eliminate the wrong answers – much like one must do during a multiple
choice test. This activity provides both an interesting get to know chapter members on
a more personal level, and a chance for students to practice their elimination for
multiple choice testing in a fun and interactive way.
Introduction for Provincial Multiple Choice Testing:
Duration: 5 minutes or less
This is the perfect opportunity to teach those who have never competed before
about how multiple choice testing is set up at the Provincial Competition. Inform
them of the time limit, explain how the room will be set up, and describe what the
atmosphere is like. Perhaps have a senior member explain their own experience
with the multiple choice testing from provincials.
Main Activity: Mock Multiple Choice Test
Duration: 30 minutes
Students will be writing a mini ‘mock’ multiple choice test, allowing them to get the feel
of what it will be like during Provincials. Adding in a time limit will put a bit of pressure
on the students; forcing them to stay on track and work efficiently. This will get them
ready for the upcoming multiple choice testing and will allow them to see what works
and what they may need to fix before the real thing. It is your decision whether or not to
have executive students participate by writing the multiple choice test from their
category cluster.




Divide students into clusters and distribute tests accordingly.
Instruct students to try and complete at least the first 30 questions in 30 minutes
of silence.
Be sure to time them and give them a warning with 10 minutes left.
Do not collect booklets at the end as the students will be completing
the remaining questions at home
11
Debrief Questions:
Duration: 10 minutes
1) Do any of you have a specific way that you go about tackling a multiple
choice question?
2) Roughly, how long do you give yourself for each question?
3) What might you do if you weren’t sure of an answer or a word?
4) What are some good elimination strategies?
5) How else can you prepare for a multiple choice test, besides doing mock tests?
Homework or Extension, Extra Tips:
Duration: 5 minutes of explanation













Have students take home remainder of their multiple choice questions (70 or
less) to complete by the following week. 
Remind them to be cautious of completion time and encourage them to try not
using their resources.
Inform students that the answers will be posted (be sure to include date
and location).
Explain that you will post the explanations with the answers.
Stress the importance of going through ALL answers, even those
explanations/definitions of other terms. 
Hand out any important sheets. 
Write any important reminders on the board (i.e. dates, times, meetings, etc.).
Remember: Practice is key for a student’s success in DECA!
12
Lesson 4: Performance Indicators
Purpose of the Topics of Focus and Summary of the Activities:
There is nothing more important than the Performance Indicators (PI) when making a
DECA presentation. Ninety percent of competitor scores are based on the evaluation
of five performance indicators (four for Principles events). Thus, the purpose of this
lesson plan is to ensure that your competitors understand how to handle and adapt to
different performance indicators.
Start with a basic instructional period, then move onto a hands-on activity with a
case study.
Preparation and Resources Required:
Room for meeting, handouts for cluster members, any presentation materials you
will use and accompanying technology (i.e. PowerPoint, prezi, laptop, etc.)
Task
Assigned
to…
Complete
by:
Time
Other notes
Required
Give every
Cluster Leader a
copy of
performance
indicator booklet
(electronic or
hard copy)
Training
Coordinator
Meeting day
10
minutes
Find
performance
indicator booklets
under the
“Performance
Indicators”
column on this
page:
http://2013.deca.ca
/competitiveevents/
Print 2 different
case studies for
every person
Training
Coordinator
Meeting Day
10
minutes
1 case study to
take home, 1
case study to do
in class
2 days before
meeting day
5 minutes
Send reminder
Cluster
email for meeting Leader
13
Read the lesson
plan thoroughly
and know your
content
Cluster
Leader
1 day before
meeting day
20
minutes
Print a copy of
the lesson plan
for every
member
Training
Coordinator
Meeting day
10
minutes
Email the lesson
plan to cluster
leaders and
members
Training
Coordinator
2 days before
meeting day
10
minutes
Print out one
copy for each
member and
have extras on
hand
Instructional Period: Performance Indicators
Duration: 10 minutes
Points to cover:








The importance of performance indicators:
 Base your entire presentation around performance indicators (judges
judge the performance based on these PIs so make it clear that you are
delivering your content specifically to the PIs) 
DECA acronym: Define, Explain, Connect, Above 
 Define what the performance indicator means (e.g. operations encompasses
the day-to-day activities that keep a company running smoothly.) 
 Explain why it’s important or relevant (e.g. optimizing our operations
increases efficiency, cuts costs, and ensures quality control.) 
 Connect to solution (e.g. this will help our company because as you
mentioned, our quarterly earnings are down and our products’ perceived
value is suffering as well. Improving operations will help both aspects.) 
 Above the expectations. Ask yourself: “how do I stand out?” (e.g. I’ve put
together this chart that explains the correlation between resources dedicated
to improving operations and our quarterly earnings.) 
Main Activity: Joint Case Studies
Duration: 45 minutes
1. Split the class into groups of 3-5, by cluster or category if possible (depending on
your class size).
2. Assign each group a case study that matches their individual category clusters.
14
3. Give each member of the group a copy of the case study.
4. Give the class 10 minutes to solve their case study individually.
5. Ask each of the members for the performance indicator they liked the least;
assign the members to present that performance indicator for 2 minutes in front
of the entire class.
6. Rotate through the class and give positive reinforcement and
constructive criticism after each person.
Debrief Questions:
Duration: 10 minutes
1) What did you learn from this exercise?
2) What are some of your tips or ideas for solving performance indicators?
3) What do you like to do when you get a hard performance indicator?
Extra Time Activity: Performance Indicator (PI) Lottery
Duration: 10 minutes
From the PI booklet, choose one career-sustaining (marked by a bracketed “CS”
beside the PI) performance indicator to assign to each person. Make sure you are
picking from the right cluster (e.g. marketing cluster students should do a PI from the
marketing cluster).
Randomly select one person to present their PI. They are to present what they know
about this PI for one minute. Have the rest of the class count the number of stutters,
“ums”, and “uhs”. Whoever is able to complete this activity with the lowest count wins.
Homework or Extension:
1. Hand out one case study and ask them to do the case study at home,
focusing on the DECA acronym.
2. Record your performance if possible and watch it yourself. You can also upload it to
YouTube as an unlisted video and send the link to your trainers for feedback.
15
Lesson 5: Case Studies
Purpose of the Topics of Focus and Summary of the Activities:
This week, the focus will be on how to prepare your members in the most efficient
manner to set them up for the perfect case study performance. An ice breaker activity
will help improve their speech techniques and avoid word crutches. The main focus will
then be shifted to an activity regarding the use of visuals in case studies. Students will
present one case twice, and during the second round, they will use visuals to see how it
adds to their performance. Additional tips will follow on what to look for in cases as well
as a brief homework assignment.
Preparation and Resources Required:
Task
Assigned to… Complete by:
Print handouts Jr.
Day before
and collect
Exec/Secretary meeting
paper for main
activity
Time
Required
45 minutes
Other notes
Multiple
copies of 3-5 different
cases per cluster.
Send
reminder
email for
meeting
President
Beginning of
week of
meeting
5 minutes
Remind
members to bring
writing utensils and
paper.
Prepare
meeting room
Whole exec
Before
meeting
10 minutes
Ensure
enough chairs and
desks for all members
to sit.
Introduction Activity or Ice Breaker: “Umm….But…..Uhhhh”
Duration: 7-10 minutes
Instruct students to pick a partner; preferably one they do not know very well to imitate
the scenario of a role play. Dictate that the object of the game is to be able to speak for
a full minute about a completely meaningless thing, without using word clutches such as:
UMM, BUT, UHHH, LIKE etc. Furthermore, the speaker should try and sell the partner on
said thing, trying to convince them that they should like it or why they should buy one.
One partner will start while the other listens. After a minute, the other partner will then try
16
with a different topic to do the same task. Choose four different topics so each partner
can go twice.
Sample topics:
o
o
o
o
o
Cheese
Clouds
Toilets
Koalas
Lamps
Main Activity: Case Preparation: Using Visuals
Duration: 40 minutes
1) Break up students into their clusters (marketing, management, finance, hospitality
etc.). Have multiple copies of 3-5 different case studies per cluster (dependant on
chapter size) and many sheets of paper to go along with each.
2) Ask the students in individual events to pair up in twos, and those in team events
two get into groups of four (their partner and another team).
3) Instruct BOTH partners to start preparing for the case. Give them EIGHT (8)
minutes to do so, (instruct them it is a time management exercise). After the
allotted time, instruct one team/partner to present to the other (estimated 8
minutes). Remind them that a possible 18 points are awarded to each
performance indicator, and 10 are given for overall impression. At this point,
executives should be circling the room, acting as judges and giving tips to
the students presenting.
4) Once completed, switch and allow the other partner to present
(approximately 8 minutes).
5) After both teams have gone, stop the students and poll them on how many
addressed ALL of the performance indicators, and how many used visuals.
6) Give two minutes for students to change/add to their preparation for the case by
ADDING AT LEAST ONE VISUAL (chart, graph, picture, logo etc.) and ensuring
they address all of the performance indicators
7) Instruct them to present the same case again (both teams).
8) Once completed, poll to see if they found their presentation more
successful (almost guaranteed to be YES!).
Debrief Questions:
Duration: 5-8 minutes
1.
2.
3.
4.
How do visuals affect your presentation? (give evidence of its affect to peers)
What visuals did you utilize? (give examples to peers)
When is it appropriate to use the visuals? (ensure proper use)
Did the visuals take away from anybody’s presentation? (ensure proper use)
17
Extra Tips
Things to look for when preparing for a case study:
1. Creating a solution to the task at hand.
2. Satisfying all the requirements of the case study.
3. Addressing ALL of the performance indicators (other than overall impression,
this is solely what you are judged on).
4. USE OF VISUALS
a. Try folding your pieces of paper in half, creating makeshift PowerPoint
slides that can outline what you will be speaking about to your judge.
b. Create graphs (you don’t require real numbers) that can aid
the explanation of your solution.
c. Create a mini brochure by folding a piece of paper three times (does
not have to contain real information).
d. Hand your judge a business card that you can create quickly in the corner
of your paper.
5. Consider several possibilities and take a few seconds to think before answering
any questions the judge may ask you; try not to ramble on for the sake of time.
6. Be courteous, shake your judge’s hand, keep eye contact, ask to be seated,
and thank them for their time when you are done.
Study tips:
1. Try presenting in front of a mirror or recording yourself with a camera or phone
to be able to work out the kinks and nervous ticks in your presentation.
2. Present a case to a parent or a friend to get a true feel for what an actual case
will be like, taking into account time limitations and grading procedures like a
proper case would.
3. PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE! The only way to improve your consistency
is to keep practicing. It gives you the confidence to handle any case that is
thrown at you on competition day.
Homework:
(Not mandatory, but very beneficial if it were to be completed):
1. Practice at least one real life case scenario with a friend or parent, and have
them give you feedback.
2. Try creating a business card in under 30 seconds that can be handed to a
judge at the conclusion of a case. Do it on a corner of a piece of paper that can
either be folded or ripped neatly to give to the judge as an act of
professionalism (the credentials do not have to be real, but it acts as another
visual aid to the overall impression of your case).
18
Lesson 6: Professionalism and Etiquette
Purpose of the Topics of Focus and Summary of the Activities:
This week is slightly different from the others. Professionalism and etiquette are broken
down into several categories, but the focus is on: 1) Conduct and 2) Appearance. These
remain to be extremely important aspects to any professional scenario. The icebreaker
provides an overview of the importance of professionalism and etiquette and situates
the focus within DECA. The activities that follow educate and show members how to
prepare themselves for DECA competitions, including how to interact with judges and
how to dress and groom themselves appropriately. All activities can be done in groups
of 5-7 with one leader. (If you have a big group, you can split up and each executive
can lead one group.)
Preparation and Resources Required:
Task
Assigned Complete
to…
by:
Time
Other notes
Required
Obtain projector or
blackboard
Sr. Exec
Meeting
date
10
minutes
Obtain 5 rocks
Jr. Exec
Meeting
date
5 minutes They can be rocks of
any size
Obtain hand sanitizer Jr. Exec
Meeting
date
5 minutes
Practice the Four-inHand knot tie
Week
before
meeting, at
prior exec
meeting
45
minutes
All exec
The exec should all
be able to do the
Four-in-Hand knot by
the meeting time to
instruct chapter
members
19
Obtain a few ties
All exec
Print Professionalism Jr. Exec
and Etiquette
handout (one per
Meeting
date
Day before
the meeting
5 minutes There should be one
tie per 2-3 males in
the chapter.
Tip: Never leave
45
printing
minutes
for the last minute
because of tech
person)
difficulties that may
arise
Print Dress Your
Best handouts (one
per person)
Jr. Exec
Day before
the meeting
45
minutes
Print Grooming
Sr. Exec
Yourself posters (one
set) OR show on a
projector
Day before
the meeting
45
minutes
Introduction Activity/Ice Breaker: “Thank You for the Rock”
Duration: 10 minutes
Students are in groups of 5-7 and each group receives one rock. Going in a clockwise
manner, the first individual passes the rock on to the next person while explaining that it
is a gift. The next person must graciously accept the rock and thank the gift-giver and
state a use for the gift, no matter how outrageous. The goal is to deliver the message in
a sincere and courteous manner. Each individual has the freedom to elaborate upon
the basic “storyline” and all members of the group listen to each other’s exchanges. The
faster this game proceeds, the more outrageous and funny the responses can get. This
is a great icebreaker.
For example:



A: “B, I brought you this rock from Thailand from my recent trip there. It’s very
valuable and I thought you’d love it!” 
B: “Thanks, A. I lost my pet rock last week and this is perfect. I’ve been feeling a
void in my life ever since Rocky made a run for it.” 
Once everyone has had a turn giving and receiving the rock, do the following debrief as
a group. The leaders can ask the questions and take a few responses before sharing
the suggested responses. (Ideas should also be recorded in the Professionalism and
Etiquette handout to be distributed to members after the meeting.)

How might this be applicable in the business world? 
20




o Firstly, it can be applicable to professional exchanges that don’t go as
predicted – someone who is offering you something might see it as
valuable even if you don’t.
o Secondly, it’s important to always be courteous and positive with others
in exchanges even when surprised; it is simply polite.
Why is it important to respond positively? 
o You need to ensure not to offend people especially if they’re offering you
something; make them feel important.
Why is this relevant to DECA? 
o Sometimes a judge may not see a situation in the same way as you do –
just like two people might value a rock differently – thus, you should
always appreciate and respect the judge’s opinion.
o Because this is a professional environment, you should always be
polite and listen to what the judge has to offer without openly telling
them they are wrong or you disagree.
Brainstorm: What Not to Do
Duration: 5 minutes
The executive can set up a projector or a blackboard and be ready to write down
ideas. (Ideas should also be recorded in the Professionalism and Etiquette handout to
be distributed to members after the meeting.) Ask for ideas about definite no-no’s in
competition situations with judges. Brainstorm can be done in the following categories:





Addressing the judge 
Talking to the judge during your presentation 
At the end of the presentation 
Executives or senior members can support the brainstorm by giving ideas and tips if
members are stuck based on the following list. After 2-3 minutes, the executive should
share their ideas from this list and beyond:






Addressing the judge
o Sir, Madam 
o Do not use first names.
o Use Mr. or Mrs. if you know their last names.
o Avoid “you have to” and “you must” – always say “you should” or “I
recommend that”.
Talking to the judge during your presentation 
o Do not use slang.
o Do not use acronyms (e.g. lol, ttyl, gtg).
o Use full sentences and clarify ideas.
o Don not talk too quickly – take pauses and take a sip of water if you’re
at a loss for words.
21

o Do not swear.
o Do not say you forgot what you’re saying. If you do forget, take a break
for a moment and then restart (“Starting from where I left off”).
At the end of the presentation 
o Do not give the judge any business cards; just leave your notes if they
ask.
o Don’t leave before the judge asks questions and permits you to do so.
o Tuck in your chair after you leave.
o Shake hands with your judge if they initiate it and thank them for their time.
Handshake Hoopla
Duration: 10 minutes (2 minute introduction of criteria, 4 minutes on handshaking, 4
minutes for best handshake).
On a projector or blackboard, show the following criteria:









Shake Vigour 
Solid Grasp 
Moisture 
Timing 
Eye Contact 
Elaborate upon each point while passing around hand sanitizer to everyone in the room:









Shake Vigour (Motions?)
o Your hands should stay at a natural height.
o The shake should be up, down, up.
o Do not keep shaking hands.
Solid Grasp (Tight? Loose?) 
o Don’t grip the person’s hand too tightly but do not hold your hand limp either.
o This is an opportunity to show a moderate amount of assertiveness.
Moisture (Sweat?) 
o Wipe your hands off discreetly before a handshake.
o Do not ever have wet hands.
o Cold and clammy hands can be warmed up by rubbing your hands
together and then drying them off on paper towel or handkerchief.
Timing (initiating the handshake and letting go) 
o Take the initiative and extend your hand.
o Don’t hold on after the three shakes are done.
Eye Contact 
o Look at the other person in the eye when you shake hands.
Students pair up randomly for a handshake and exchange comments based on
the above criteria. Then students find new partners and repeat the process until 56 handshakes have taken place.
22
Ask students if there was anyone who had the “best” handshake. If there are
multiple students, get them to shake hands with each other and see if there is any
feedback amongst the “best” handshakes. If anyone struggles with this, the
executives can offer extra help after the meeting to those students.
Grooming Yourself
Duration: 10 minutes
As a group, rotate through images of either well-dressed and/or under-dressed
cartoons or individuals. Each person has one main problem that needs to be
remedied. Students can call out ways in which the people in the images can improve to
be competition-ready. For each change suggested, the executive should ask the
student to explain where this change can be made. Ideas for images are below:
Image
Change
-
Haircut - salon/barber
Tweeze - at home/salon
Fix hairstyle - at home (with gel)
At home
C
-
Shaggy hair
Unclean facial hair
Hair covering face
Thick eye makeup
Inappropriate
jewellery
Heavy lip colour
Hair covering face
Messy hair
Food in teeth
-
At home
At home
Anywhere – salon, bobby pins
Anywhere - tie hair up
Anywhere - floss or brush teeth,
D
- Hair covering face
-
Haircut - salon
A
B
-
Where to make the change
** The following two activities can be run simultaneously with female and male chapter
members separated. However, if the executive see fit, they may run both activities
consecutively so all members may partake in both activities.
Dress Your Best (female chapter members)
Duration: 10 minutes
Students are each given a $200 budget to buy a new work-appropriate wardrobe. Each
person receives the Dress Your Best handout which has a selection of clothing
appropriate for DECA. Students have to try and create an outfit with their budget. Then
after 5 minutes, students turn and share their ideas with 2 others and justify their
choices. Encourage students to discuss ways in which they can obtain business clothing
at a lower price (e.g. shop at thrift stores, shop at larger mass retailers, shop at the end
of seasons, shop for student discounts and special deals, shop for diverse pieces that
can be worn in many occasions).
23
Extension: To make the budget more flexible, you can offer students a 10% off
“coupon” on one item.
Tying a Tie (male chapter members)
Duration: 10 minutes
A member of the executive will demonstrate the Four-in-Hand knot. The other
members will practice the same tie one by one, with the help of an executive. The goal
is to centre the knot and make sure the tie hangs above the waist and the narrow end
does not show beneath the wider end.
Debrief Questions:
Duration: 5 minutes
1) Why is it important to conduct yourself professionally around judges?
2) What is the importance of making a good first impression?
3) How can you prepare yourself for competition?
Homework or Extension, Extra Tips:
Executive should complete the Professionalism and Etiquette handout and distribute
to members for reference.
24
Lesson 7: Going the Extra Mile
Purpose of the Topics of Focus and Summary of the Activities:
Being able to present yourself professionally is very important when you meet anyone.
You only have one chance to make a good first impression and if you are not
confident and prepared, your presentation will not be strong. Some people even say,
it’s 80% confidence and 20% knowledge; if you are not able to effectively
communicate an idea, your presentation will suffer. Communication is one of the main
focuses of this lesson, preparing students for upcoming role play scenarios.
Preparation and Resources Required:
Task
Assigned
to…
Complete Time
by:
Required
Write-up
presentation tips
for your chapter
(use the ones
listed below and
add your own)
Training
Coordinator
2 days
before
meeting
day
10
minutes
Make an
overhead of your
presentation tips
and send a copy
to everyone by
email
Training
Coordinator
2 days
before
meeting
day
10
minutes
Send reminder
President/
email for meeting Secretary of
Chapter
2 days
before
meeting
day
5 minutes
Read the lesson
plan thoroughly
and know your
content
Training
Coordinator
1 day
before
meeting
day
20
minutes
Print a copy of
the lesson plan
Training
Meeting
10
Other notes
Most school libraries
are able to print
overhead sheets.
Print out one copy for
each member and
25
and evaluation
sheet (found in
the back) for
every member
Coordinator
day
minutes
have extras on hand.
Instructional Period: Presentation Skills (Including Tips)
Duration: 15 minutes (if your chapter is large, split the chapter into clusters, and
have your cluster leaders guide the instructional period and the main activity)


Talk about the importance of communication and first impressions 
Read and discuss the following tips with your chapter/cluster: 
o Drink water before you go to the judging room to clear your throat.
o When you walk in the judging room, smile – seem enthusiastic!



o Immediately shake hands with the judge and introduce yourself. 
o Before you start to talk about your case and how you will solve it, tell the judge
what you will be talking about briefly.
o Always make eye contact with the judge.
o Do not make excessive hand gestures.

o Sit up straight when you are talking. 
o If you make a mistake when you are talking do not say “sorry”. Instead say, “let
me rephrase that”. 
o Make sure your volume is correct. Do not shout at the judge nor speak so
quietly that the judge needs to ask you to repeat what you are saying.
o
Do not speak too fast or too slow; a good range is 125 to 160 words per minute.
o Do not use difficult words; use the right words that communicate your idea
more effectively.
o
Remain calm and relaxed.
o When you are finished talking about your solution, do not just wait for the judge
to ask you questions. Say to the judge, “Now, if you have any questions I will be
more than happy to answer them”.
o
When you are done, shake the judge’s hand and thank them for their time.
o
SMILE when you are done, tuck in your chair and exit the judging room.
26
Main Activity: Evaluating your Presentation Skills
Duration: 30 minutes
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Ask your chapter/cluster to find a partner.
Give each person 4 evaluation sheets (found at the bottom of this activity).
Have a list of 8 different topics:
Examples:
 Math
 Science
 Siblings, etc.
There will be 4 rounds in this activity. The training coordinator will call out a
topic, and the partners must take turns evaluating each other on presentation
skills, using the rubric below.
Note: When the presenter is presenting they must make their presentation formal
(includes shaking hands and introducing themselves)
Each presenter will have one minute to present and after, the evaluator will have
1 minute to tell the presenter what they think the presenter did well and what they
could improve on.
The partners will then switch, and a new topic will be given.
After round 1 is complete, everyone must find a new partner. This process
will continue for 3 more rounds.
Note: The evaluation sheet that is completed by the evaluator should always
be given to the presenter at the end of his/her presentation
Debriefing Questions:
Duration: 10 minutes
1. What did you learn about how you present?
2. Are there some things that you found most people you spoke to can improve on?
3. What is one new thing that you learned to do when you are presenting?
Homework or Extension:
Practice with friends or family members and have them give you topic and tell them
to evaluate your presentation skills
27
Evaluation Sheets
Evaluation 1
1 – very poor
2- poor
1. Smile?
1
2
3
2. Hand Gestures
1
2
3
3. Volume
1
2
3
4. Speed
1
2
3
5. Relaxed
1
2
3
Evaluation 2
1 – very poor
2- poor
1. Smile?
1
2
3
2. Hand Gestures
1
2
3
3. Volume
1
2
3
4. Speed
1
2
3
5. Relaxed
1
2
3
Evaluation 3
1 – very poor
2- poor
1. Smile?
1
2
3
2. Hand Gestures
1
2
3
3. Volume
1
2
3
4. Speed
1
2
3
5. Relaxed
1
2
3
Evaluation 4
1 – very poor
2- poor
1. Smile?
1
2
3
2. Hand Gestures
1
2
3
3. Volume
1
2
3
4. Speed
1
2
3
5. Relaxed
1
2
3
3-average
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
3-average
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
3-average
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
4- good
5-excellent
Comments:
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
4- good
5-excellent
Comments:
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
4- good
5-excellent
Comments:
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
3-average
4- good
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
4
5
5-excellent
Comments:
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
28
Week 8: Cluster-based Training
Purpose of the Topics of Focus and Summary of the Activities:
One of the most effective ways to prepare members for competition is to split them
into clusters. There are 6 clusters that members can belong to: Marketing, Business
Management and Administration, Hospitality and Tourism, Finance, Principles, and
Written Events. If you need to clarify which events belong in each cluster, you can find
a list on http://2013.deca.ca/competitive-events/. By splitting into clusters, you will be
able to focus on the specific skills and knowledge required for each event cluster. This
will give your members a competitive edge over those who are only learning general
information. The following is a guide for your cluster meetings and the preparation
required before them.
Preparation and Resources Required:
Task
Assigned
to…
Complete by:
Time
Other notes
Required
Designate
clusters to
executive
members
All Execs
Meeting when
members
receive their
event
designations
20
minutes
Divide members
into clusters
All Execs
Meeting when
receive their
event
designations
One day before
meeting.
20
minutes
Print handouts for Cluster
meeting
Leader
Send reminder
email for meeting
Cluster
Leader
Prepare a
Cluster
calendar for mock Leader
role-play sign ups
and resource
sharing
2 days before
each meeting
day
First Meeting
Day
Ideally, each cluster
leader will have
experience in an event in
their cluster.
Mix experienced and
inexperienced in order to
allow individuals to give
advice, tips, etc.
10
Tip: Bring money if
minutes
required, keep receipt for
reimbursement.
5 minutes Compile a contact list
when you get your
members.
20
Print out one copy for
minutes
each member and have
extras on hand.
29
Introduction Activity or Ice Breaker: Cluster Name Game
Duration: 10 minutes
Everyone introduces themself and uses a cluster-related vocabulary word to
accompany their name (i.e. My name is Sarah and I like SWOT analyses…My name
is Mark and I like Marketing.)
The second person has to remember the name and word of the first person, and then
they introduce themselves and say their word. The third person does the same for the
first and second person and so on and so forth.
*If the cluster is larger than 10 people, have members remember the 3 or 4 names and
words before them, not all.
Examples of Main Activity:
Duration: 40 minutes
The main activity of each meeting will be different. Below are two examples of first
meetings; one for experienced members and one for inexperienced members. For ideas
of content to discuss in your other meetings, please refer to the other sections of this
training manual. Each would make a great meeting (or two).
(Recommended for inexperienced members/experienced members however, not
necessary to follow)
Inexperienced Members
1. Ask if everyone knows what their event is; for those who don’t, fill them in and
make sure they write it down.
2. Go through the basics of DECA (i.e. competition format, levels of competition,
differences between events, etc.).
3. Give members a handout with all the information you are telling them for reference.
4. Work out a schedule with members for mock role plays, a mock exam date, and if
applicable, when each member has their turn with library resources.
5. Present members with the other topics in this training manual and ask them which
area they are most interested in learning first.
6. Discuss any questions members have.
7. Assign homework (see ideas below).
Experienced Members
1. Ask those who have done the same event to share a bit about their past experiences.
2. Give members a handout with basic information about DECA for reference.
3. Have the members each contribute something they personally have found useful
(you should write these down and give a copy to everyone at the next meeting).
30
4. Work out a schedule with members for mock role plays, a mock exam date, and if
applicable, when each member has their turn with library resources.
5. Present members with the other topics in this training manual and ask them which
they are most interested in learning first.
6. Discuss any questions members have.
7. Assign homework (see ideas below).
Debrief Questions:
Duration: 5 minutes
1.
2.
3.
4.
What was the most helpful thing you learned today?
What didn’t we have the chance to cover today?
How will you integrate what we learned into your DECA presentation?
What will you do to retain what we’ve learned today? (Can also be used in a group
discussion rather than individual answers)
Homework or Extension, Extra Tips:
Duration: 5 minutes
This can be an activity or sheet for them to complete at home, a tip sheet for reference,
or a challenge/interactive activities.
31
Lesson 9: Competition Boot camp
Purpose of the Topics of Focus and Summary of the Activities:
The purpose of this week is to summarize the concepts, strategies and lessons that
have been taught over the past eight weeks in order to best prepare your team for the
competition.
Note: No icebreakers or homework needed this week.
Preparation and Resources Required:
Task
Assigned
to…
Complete
by:
Time
Required
Other notes
Research into past
competition
performance of
school chapter
President
Meeting
day
20 minutes
See below for specific
numbers.
Identify past
members who have
participated in ICDC
Vice
President
3 days
before
Meeting
Day
10 minutes
Ask them to share their
stories at the meeting.
Create Summary
Sheet.
All execs
Day
before
meeting
One hour
Create a summary sheet
that summarizes the key
Points taught over the past 9
weeks.
Obtain all
swags/resources
from Chapter
Adviser for
Distribution.
Vice
President
Day
before
meeting
30 minutes
Create a distribution
organizer
32
Fully understand the
dress code for
DECA Ontario:
Cluster
Leader
Day
before
meeting
20 minutes
Print out one copy for each
executive and have extras
on hand
Obtain advisor’s
contact information
President &
Vice
President
Meeting
Day
5 minutes
Obtain the contact info from
the advisors
Send an email to
members
summarizing
meeting.
President
After
meeting
30minutes
Summarize dress code,
meeting time, necessary
materials, etc.
www.deca.ca/docume
nts/DECA_Dress_Co
de_and_Code_of_Co
nduct.doc
Main Activities
Duration: 15 minutes
Begin the session by talking about the history of your chapter’s DECA and
performance in the past. Talk about the goals that your chapter would like to
reach.
st
 # of 1 place finishes 
nd
 # of 2 place finishes 

rd
 # of 3 place finishes 

 # of Top 10 medalists 

 # of Top 20 medalists 

 # of Written winners 
Duration: 10 minutes
Talk about the prospect of competing in Atlanta and the excitement of
bonding together as a team. Have past ICDC delegates share their stories
and giver other personal DECA experiences. The purpose of this is to
pump up the students morale for the meeting as well as for the regional and
provincial conferences.
Duration: 20 minutes
Summarize the lessons that have been taught in the past nine weeks.
Include key concepts including:
1. 4ps of marketing
2. Buzz words
3. MC Exams
4. How to break down PIs
5. Professionalism & Etiquette
33
6. Going the extra mile
Duration: 15 minutes
Discuss about the logistics for the event including:
1. Meeting time to travel or meet at designated hotel area.
2. Dress code and the consequences of violating them.
3. Essential Things that are needed for the competition:
o Photo ID
o Pad folio
o Lanyard
o Plastic Name Badge
o Timecard
o Calculator
4. Give out the executives’/advisor phone numbers for contact purposes.
Duration: 15 minutes
Conclude and summarize the meeting while also distributing the materials for provincials.
Host a question and answer session at the very end. Encourage people to ask questions and
have the executives answer in detail in order to avoid and prevent any accidents,
misunderstandings, etc.











Find one current industry trend.
Do light research on 3 major companies in your industry.
Learn 5 new vocabulary words.
Complete a practice exam. 
Think of one question/topic to discuss at the next meeting.
Write a haiku using cluster-related words.
(I.e. Marketing is great. Price, Place, Product, Promotion. 4 P’s just for you). 
Final Question:
When and where is our next meeting? Where will be meeting on the competition dates?
Have all members program date, time, and place into their phones.
Tip: Always try to send out a reminder e-mail or Facebook post two days prior to your
upcoming meetings. Always include any important information they may need to know or any
specific things they may need to bring along.
34
Other Resources
DECA Ontario has plenty of other resources available for your chapter’s perusal.
Consider having a look at some of these links:
Events Calendar: http://2013.deca.ca/events-calendar/
Competitive Categories: http://2013.deca.ca/competitive-events/
Regionals Information: http://2013.deca.ca/about-regionals/
Provincials Information: http://2013.deca.ca/about-provincials/
How To Guide: http://www.deca.ca/documents/DECA_Ontario_How_to_Guide.pdf
Competitive Tips: http://2013.deca.ca/competitive-tips/
Additional Resources:
http://www.glencoe.com/sec/busadmin/marketing/sh/index.html#
35
Important DECA Ontario Dates
For the 2013-2014 Academic Year
Fall Symposium: Monday, September 23rd (Capitol Banquet Hall)
 Registration due: Monday, September 16th
DECA Power Trip (NARCON): Wednesday, October 30th – Sunday,
November 3rd (Boston, Massachusetts)
 Registration due: Tuesday, October 1st
Regional Competitions:
1. York Regionals: Tuesday, October 22nd (Seneca College)
2. Hamilton Regionals: Tuesday, November 5th (Hamilton
Convention Centre)
3. Waterloo Regionals: Saturday, November 9th (Sir John A.
MacDonald SS)
4. Toronto Regionals: Friday, November 15th (Riverdale Cl)
5. Nor-Eastern Regionals: Saturday, November 16th (Sinclair SS)
6. Peel Regionals: Sunday, November 17th (Ryerson University)
 Registration and money due: Tuesday, October 15th
Regional Online Written Test: Monday, October 28th
 Clusters must write at the same time; between 7:00am – 6:00pm
Provincial Competition: Sunday, February 9th– Tuesday, February 11th
(Sheraton Centre, Toronto)
 Registration due: Friday, December 6th
International Career Development Conference: Thursday, May 1st –
Thursday, May 8th
 Registration due: Saturday, March 1st
36
Stay Connected
Stay connected with DECA Ontario throughout the year…
@DECAOntario
/DECAOntario
Decaontario
DECAONTARIOOFFICIAL
[email protected]
[email protected]
For further student inquiries or
more resources and information!
37