Middle School CTE Teacher how-to

How to Start a Career Exploration Unit

Early exploration builds direction.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Early exploration builds direction. In short: survey; introduce; invite, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Survey student interests.

  2. Introduce career clusters.

  3. Invite guest speakers.

  4. Do a hands-on task from each field.

  5. Reflect.

  6. Share with families.

Safety reminders for middle school CTE teachers

  • Teach tool safety before use
  • Supervise labs closely
  • Use eye protection
  • Follow food safety in kitchens

CTE · Career cluster · Project-based learning · CTSO · TSA · FCCLA: see the full middle school CTE teacher glossary.

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