Lesson Plan
Course Title: Concepts of Engineering and Technology
Session Title: Passport to Your Future – Technical Communication: The Résumé
Performance Objective:
After completing this lesson, students will be able to recognize and define the elements of a
Skills Résumé by creating a Skills Résumé (i.e., technical communication document) that
includes all of the elements requested in the Assignment: Elements of Skills Résumé.
Specific Objectives:
 Recall opportunities and careers they have studied in fields related to physical and
mechanical systems in preparation to learn what is included in a résumé.
 Differentiate types of résumés.
 Recognize and define elements of Skills Résumé.
 Apply strategies for résumé writing.
 Create a Skills Résumé.
 Reflect on why it’s important to document their education and career success over a
period of time.
Preparation
TEKS Correlations:
This lesson, as published, correlates to the following TEKS. Any changes/alterations to the
activities may result in the elimination of any or all of the TEKS listed.
Concepts of Engineering and Technology:
 130.362 (c)(9)(A)(B)(C)(D)
...describe the applications of physical and mechanical systems;
...describe career opportunities in physical and mechanical systems;
...apply design concepts to problems in physical and mechanical systems;
...identify emerging issues in physical and mechanical systems.

130.362 (c)(2)(D)
...maintain a portfolio
Interdisciplinary Correlations:
English:

110.44 (b)(6)(A)(B)
…expand vocabulary through wide reading, listening and discussing;
…rely on context to determine meanings of words and phrases such as figurative
language, connotation and denotation of words, analogies, idioms, and technical
vocabulary.
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
110.44 (b)(7)(H)
…use study strategies such as note taking, outlining, and using study-guide questions
to better understand texts;
Desktop Publishing:

126.24 (c)(2)(A)(B)
...demonstrate proficiency in the use of a variety of input devices such as mouse,
keyboard, disk/disc, modem, scanner, voice/sound recorder, or digital camera by
appropriately incorporating such components into the product; and
...use digital keyboarding standards in word processing such as one space after
punctuation, the use of em/en dashes, and smart quotation marks.

126.24 (c)(3)(B)
...demonstrate proper etiquette and knowledge of acceptable use policies when using
networks, especially resources on the Internet and intranet;

126.24 (c)(7)(C)(D)(E)
...use electronic productivity tools such as the word processor to edit text including
move, copy, cut and paste, and spell check;
...select and use the categories of type, font, size, style, and alignment appropriate for
the task;
...apply the basic elements of page design including text, graphics, headlines, and white
space;

126.24 (c)(8)(A)(B)
...develop technical documentation related to desktop publishing;
...demonstrate the use of technology to participate in self-directed and practical
activities;

126.24 (c)(10)(A)(D)(G)(H)
...define the purpose of the product and identify the specified audience;
...create a master template to include page specifications and other repetitive tasks;
...apply color principles to communicate the mood of the product for the specific
audience;
...incorporate the principles of basic design including, but not limited to, balance,
contrast, dominant element, use of white space, consistency, repetition, alignment, and
proximity;

126.24 (c)(11)(C)(D)
...distinguish design and printing requirements as they relate to purposes, audiences,
and final output; and
...use styles (style sheets) including a variety of type specifications such as typeface,
style, size, alignment, indents, and tabs.
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Teacher Preparation:
1. Be familiar with opportunities and careers in fields related to physical and mechanical
systems so that you can guide the students in selecting a career in which to prepare a
Skills Résumé.
2. Be prepared to present Passport to Your Future – Technical Communication: The
Résumé Microsoft PowerPoint presentation.
3. Make copies of all handouts used with lesson.
References:
Gomez, Oakes, Leone (2006). Engineering Your Future, second edition. Wildwood, MO: Great
Lakes Press, Inc.
Instructional Aids:
1. Computer with Microsoft PowerPoint installed
2. Computer with Microsoft Word installed
3. Video screen projector for Microsoft Word PowerPoint
Materials Needed:
1. Pen/Pencil
2. Computers
3. Internet access
4. Technical Terms and Definitions handout
5. Assignment: Elements of Skills Résumé handout
6. The Résumé: Passport to Your Future crossword puzzle questions
7. The Résumé: Passport to Your Future crossword puzzle
8. The Résumé: Passport to Your Future crossword puzzle key
9. Sample: Skills-Based Résumé handout
10. Elements of Skills Résumé Rubric
Equipment Needed:
1. Computers
2. Internet access
3. Video screen projector
Learner Preparation:
Students must understand the opportunities and careers in fields related to physical and
mechanical systems. Students must select a career in the fields related to physical and
mechanical systems.
Introduction
Introduction (LSI Quadrant I):
SAY: Today we will reflect on what you have studied about the opportunities and careers in
fields related to physical and mechanical systems; and then you will have a chance to prepare
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a Skills Résumé for a job that you would like to have in one of these fields.
ASK: Who can name a career from one of the fields of physical and mechanical systems?
SAY: Engineering
SAY: A résumé is one of the most important technical communication documents you will ever
create as an engineer. The résumé is the passport to an engineer’s future.
ASK: What is a résumé?
SHOW: Maggie Magopoulis’ skills résumé.
SAY: In this lesson you will create a skills résumé.
ASK: Has anyone created a résumé before?
SHOW: The Passport to Your Future PowerPoint.
Outline
Outline (LSI Quadrant II):
Instructors can use the PowerPoint presentation, slides, handouts, and note pages in
conjunction with the following outline.
MI
Outline
Notes to Instructor
I. Technical communication
A. Technical terms & definition
Begin Microsoft
PowerPoint
Slides 1-9
Teacher will discuss
the technical terms
and definitions with
students.
II. What is a résumé?
See Microsoft
PowerPoint
Slide 10
Teacher proceeds
through presentation
with questions and
answers from
students.
III. Why do I need a résumé?
See Microsoft
PowerPoint
Slide 11
IV. Types of résumés
A. Skills Résumé
1. Elements of a Skills Résumé
B. Experience Résumé
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See Microsoft
PowerPoint
Slides 12-23
4
Teacher discusses the
differences between a
Skills Résumé and an
Experience Résumé.
V. Strategies for writing a résumé
A. Recommended action verbs
1. Human relations
2. Research and design
3. Communications
4. Management
See Microsoft
PowerPoint
VI. Assignment: Elements of Skills Résumé
A. Review sample Skills Résumé
B. Write Skills Résumé
C. Complete quiz puzzle
See Microsoft
PowerPoint
Teacher will need to
have copies of
Assignment: Elements
of Skills Résumé
handouts; and The
Résumé: Passport to
Your Future, for each
student
Slides 24-29
Teacher points out
recommended action
verbs to use in
creating the résumé.
Slides 30-32
Verbal
Linguistic
Logical
Mathematical
Visual
Spatial
Musical
Rhythmic
Bodily
Kinesthetic
Intrapersonal
Interpersonal
Naturalist
Existentialist
Application
Guided Practice (LSI Quadrant III):
Open Microsoft Word on your computer. Open the Assignment: Elements of Skills Résumé
document. Review the document with your students.
Independent Practice (LSI Quadrant III):
Students will create a Skills Résumé using Microsoft Word. Students will complete quiz puzzle
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The Résumé: Passport to Your Future.
Summary
Review (LSI Quadrants I and IV):
Question: What is the difference between a Skills Résumé and an Experience Résumé?
Answer: The Skills Résumé is for people who have not yet completed significant work
experience. The Experience Résumé highlights prior work experience related to the job for
which a person is applying.
Question: What are the elements of a Skills Résumé?
Answer: Heading, Objective, Education, Work Experience (if any), Computer Skills,
Honors/Activities, References
Evaluation
Informal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III):
Teacher observes as students are using Microsoft Word to create their Skills Résumé.
Students complete The Résumé: Passport to Your Future crossword puzzle.
Formal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III, IV):
Students will complete the Assignment: Elements of Skills Résumé document and answer the
reflection question “It is important to be a well-rounded student with good grades, honors and
awards, community service, and extracurricular activities. How important do you think it is to
document this information over time?” and be assessed with the Elements of Skills Résumé
Rubric.
Extension
Extension/Enrichment (LSI Quadrant IV):
Students will present/discuss their Skills Résumé in class.
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Technical Terms and Definitions
Instructions: The terms and definitions listed below are discussed in this lesson.
Please review before proceeding with this lesson.
Communications – a technique for expressing ideas effectively (as in speech).
Design – a plan or protocol for carrying out or accomplishing something.
Electronic Publishing - publishing in which information is distributed by means
of a computer network or is produced in a format for use with a computer.
Elements of the Skills Résumé:
 Heading - something that forms or serves as a head; especially: an
inscription, headline, or title standing at the top or beginning (as of a
résumé, letter or chapter).
 Objective - something toward which effort is directed: an aim, goal, or end
of action.
 Education - a degree, level, or kind of schooling.
 Work Experience - is the experience that a person has working; or
working in a specific field or occupation.
 Computer Skills - refer to one's ability to utilize the software (and
sometimes hardware) of a computer.
 Honors – an award: a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction.
 Activities - organized student activities connected with school and usually
carrying no academic credit, such as sports, clubs, volunteer activities.
 References - character: a formal recommendation by a teacher or former
employer to a potential future employer describing the person's
qualifications and dependability.
Employer - a person or firm that employs workers.
Experience - the accumulation of knowledge or skill that results from direct
participation in events or activities.
Human Relations - the social and interpersonal relations between human
beings.
Management - the act or manner of managing; handling, direction, or control.
Qualifications - are qualities, accomplishments, etc., that fits a person for some
function, office, or the like.
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Research - diligent and systematic inquiry or investigation into a subject in order
to discover or revise facts, theories, applications, etc.
Résumé - is a piece of paper (or an electronic document) that serves to
introduce you to the people who will eventually hire you.
Skills - the ability, coming from one's knowledge, practice, aptitude, etc., to do
something well.
Technical - of or relating to technique or proficiency in a practical skill.
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Assignment: Elements of Skills Résumé
Instructions: Create a high school Skills Résumé using Windows Microsoft
Word. Fill in the blanks below.
HEADING
The heading may seem to be the simplest section of your résumé. It is the first
section your prospective employer will see and it contains the information he or
she will need to contact you.
OBJECTIVE
When seeking a specific career path, it is important to list a job or career
objective on your résumé. This statement helps employers know the direction
you see yourself taking, so they may determine whether your goals are in line
with those of their organization and the position available.
EDUCATION
Education is usually the second most important element of a résumé. Your
educational background is often a deciding factor in an employer’s decision to
interview you.
School One
Major or Area of
Concentration
Degree
Dates
School Two
Major or Area of
Concentration
Degree
Dates
School Three
Major or Area of
Concentration
Degree
Dates
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WORK EXPERIENCE
Work experience is the most important element of a résumé. It provides the
central focus of your résumé. You will want this section to be as complete and
carefully constructed as possible. If you are entering the workforce, your résumé
will probably focus on your education, but you should also include information on
your work or volunteer experiences.
Job One:
Job Title
Dates
Employer
City, State
Major Duties
Special Projects
Accomplishments
Job Two:
Job Title
Dates
Employer
City, State
Major Duties
Special Projects
Accomplishments
Job Three:
Job Title
Dates
Employer
City, State
Major Duties
Special Projects
Accomplishments
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COMPUTER SKILLS
Employers look for job seekers who are computer literate and who have technical
skills using various hardware and software applications. Employers also seek
candidates who have received specialized training in their chosen career path.
Operating Systems
Software Applications
Languages & Scripts
Hardware
Certifications
HONORS
The honors section of your résumé should highlight any awards, honors, or
memberships in honorary societies that you have received. Often, the honors are
academic in nature, but this section may be used for special achievements in
sports, clubs, or other school activities.
Honor One
Awarding Organization
Date(s)
Honor Two
Awarding Organization
Date(s)
Honor Three
Awarding Organization
Date(s)
Honor Four
Awarding Organization
Date(s)
Honor Five
Awarding Organization
Date(s)
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ACTIVITIES
The activities section of your résumé should present community activities and
volunteer positions.
Organization/Activity
Accomplishments
Organization/Activity
Accomplishments
Organization/Activity
Accomplishments
REFERENCES
Employers need to know you have references who may be contacted, if
necessary. All you need to include is a single sentence at the end of the résumé:
“References are available upon request.”
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Your Name (centered)
Permanent Address
Street Address
City, State Zip code
Permanent Phone Number
Email Address
Objective:
Education:
Work Experience
(if any):
Computer Skills:
Honors/Activities:
References:
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Reflection: It is important to be a well-rounded student with good grades, honors and
awards, community service, and extracurricular activities.
How important do you think it is to document this information over time? Use the
space provided below to answer this question.
How your grade will be calculated:
Graded Elements
Elements of Skills Résumé
Completed
Complete Résumé with Seven
Sections - 5 pts each
Spelling and Grammar
Reflection
Total
Total Points
45
35
10
10
100
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Sample: Skills-Based Resume
Maggie Magopoulis
magmag@hotmail.com
Home Phone: (555) 555-9244
Cellular: (555) 555-9244
CAREER OBJECTIVE
To join a dynamic organization in which I can apply my enthusiasm, technical aptitude and exceptional team working
skills.
EDUCATION
Seneca College
Computer Technician Diploma
2002-2004
Toronto Technical Training Secondary School
Secondary School Diploma
1998 - 2002
HIGHLIGHTED SKILLS
Computer Skills
· Excellent knowledge of personal computer hardware and software and networked systems
· History of progressive experience as junior systems analyst (internship position)
· Familiar with Visual Studio.NET, OOP, C++, and Internet development tools
Interpersonal Skills
· Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
· Strong organizational and time management abilities
· Extensive customer service experience
· Responsible, reliable and dependable
EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE
A Computer Company. Cityville, Ontario
Technical Customer Service Representative (Internship Jan 2003 – Sept 2003)
· Answered customers questions regarding computer software and hardware
· Handled customer complaints
· Created transaction-oriented websites for customers
· Part of a contract Systems Analysis team that developed “Computer Health Reports” for small and medium sized
businesses IT departments
INTERESTS
· Creating computer programs to perform routine tasks
· Interactive web page design
References available upon request.
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Crossword Puzzle Questions – The Résumé: Passport to Your Future RESEARCH QUALIFICATIONS HUMAN RELATIONS HEADING HONORS TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES OBJECTIVE EDUCATION EXPERIENCE REFERENCES DESIGN Across
3 5 6 14 16 17 18 19 Down 1 speech) 2 WORK EXPERIENCE EMPLOYER SKILLS MANAGEMENT RÉSUMÉ COMPUTER SKILLS COMMUNICATIONS Down
An award: a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction A person or firm that employs workers Is a piece of paper (or an electronic document) that serves to introduce you to the people who will eventually hire you Is the social and interpersonal relations between human beings (2 words) A plan or protocol for carrying out or accomplishing something Is the experience that a person has working, or working in a specific field or occupation (2 words) The accumulation of knowledge or skill that results from direct participation in events or activities Character: a formal recommendation by a teacher or former employer to a potential future employer describing the person’s qualifications and dependability A technique for expressing ideas effectively 4 8 9 Diligent and systematic inquiry or investigation into a subject in order to discover or revise facts, theories, applications, etc. 7 The act or manner of managing; handling, direction, or control Something toward which effort is directed: an aim, goal, or end of action. Of or relating to technique or proficiency in a practical skill 10 Are qualities, accomplishments, etc., that fits a person for some function, office, or the like 11 The ability, coming from one’s knowledge, practice, aptitude, etc., to do something well 12 A degree, level, or kind of schooling 13 Something that forms or serves as a head; especially: an inscription, headline, or title standing at the top or beginning (as of a résumé, letter, or chapter) 15 Organized student activities connected with school and usually carrying no academic credit, such as sports, clubs, volunteer activities (as in Refer to one’s ability to utilize the software (and sometimes hardware) of a computer (2 words) Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2012. All rights reserved.
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Elements of Skills Résumé Rubric
Task Statement: The students will create a high school Skills Résumé using Windows Microsoft Word.
Task Assignment: The Skills Résumé will include the following (9) elements: heading, objective, education, work experience, computer skills,
honors, activities, references, name/contact information; (7) sections; and a reflection statement about the importance of documenting over time
the characteristics of being well-rounded.
Novice
1
Up to 3 elements
are completed
Criteria Categories
(Novice to Exemplary)
Developing
Accomplished
2
3
Up to 4 elements are
Up to 7 elements are
completed
completed
Exemplary
4
Up to 9 elements are
completed
(Possible 45 points)
Final completed Résumé with
Seven Sections –
name/contact information,
objective, education, work
experience, computer skills,
honors/activities, references
(5-15 points)
Up to 2 sections
completed on final
résumé
(15-20 points)
Up to 3 sections
completed on final
résumé
(20-35 points)
Up to 5 sections
completed on final
résumé
(35-45 points)
Up to 7 sections
completed on final
résumé
(Possible 35 points)
Spelling and Grammar
(5-10 points)
More than 2
misspelled words
and more than 2
incorrect uses of
grammar
(10-15 points)
2 misspelled words
and 2 incorrect uses
of grammar
(15-25 points)
1 misspelled word
and 1 incorrect use of
grammar
(25-35 points)
No misspelled words
and correct grammar
used
(Possible 10 points)
Reflection Statement on
importance of being well rounded
(2-4 points)
2 points made
about importance
(4-6 points)
3 points made about
importance
(6-8 points)
4 points made about
importance
(8-10 points)
5 points made about
importance
(6-8 points)
(8-10 points)
Total Points:_________
Criteria Concepts/Skills to be Assessed
Elements of Skills Résumé
Completed - heading, objective,
education, work experience,
computer skills, honors, activities,
references, name/contact
information
(2-4 points)
(4-6 points)
(Possible 10 points)
A = 76-100 points; B = 47-76 points; C = 33-47 points; D = 14-33 points
Points
Earned
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