Course Profile   Introduction to Marketing, Grade 11, College Preparation, Catholic

 

Unit 2:  The Marketing Mix

Time:  35 hours

 

Activity 2.1 | Activity 2.2 | Activity 2.3 | Activity 2.4a | Activity 2.4b

Unit Description

Students learn how to successfully price, distribute, promote, and position products in a competitive environment. They examine the importance of marketing products that are in light of the common good. Specifically, they demonstrate an understanding of the factors involved in establishing a promotional plan that is both socially and fiscally responsible.

Unit Synopsis Chart

Activity

Time

Expectations

Assessment

Tasks

2.1: Product Positioning

540 min

MMV.01, MM1.01, MM1.02, MM1.03, MM1.04, MM1.05, MP3.03, TM2.02

CGE 2a,b,c,d, 3b,d,f, 4b,d, 5a,e, 7f,g,i

Application

Thinking/
Inquiry

Conceptualize a Product

Create a Package

2.2: What Price is Right?

420 min

MMV.02, MM2.01, MM2.02, MM2.03

CGE 2a,b,c,d, 3b,f, 4b,f

Knowledge

Thinking/ Inquiry

Pricing Report

Supermarket Activity

2.3: The Right Place!

420 min

MMV.03, MM3.01, MM3.02, MM3.03, MM3.04, MM3.05, TM2.01

CGE 2a,b,d,e, 3f, 4b, 5a,e, 7f,i

Application

Thinking/
Inquiry

Jigsaw Exercise

Channels of Distribution Exercise

Selecting a Channel

2.4a: “The Medium is the Message” Assignment

300 min

MMV.04, MM4.01, MM4.02, MM4.03, MM4.04, MM4.05, TM2.03, TM3.04, MM1.05

CGE 2a,b,c,d,e, 3b, 4b, 5a,e,f, 7f

Application

Communication

Advertising Medium Research Report

Public Relations Role-Play

Press Release

2.4b: Promotional Plan Assignment

420 min

MMV.04, MM4.01, MM4.02, MM4.03, MM4.04, MM4.05, TM2.03, TM3.04, MM1.05

CGE 2a,b,c,d,e, 3b, 4b, 5a,e,f, 7f

Knowledge, Application, Communication

Promotional Plan Website

 

Activity 2.1:  Product Positioning

Time:  540 minutes

Description

This activity involves the launch and positioning of a product in a competitive marketing environment. Students conceptualize a product and then create a package for it in accordance to some key marketing principles. The product and package design should reflect our concern for environmental and ethical values.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  The Marketing Mix

Overall Expectations

MMV.01 - explain what is required for a product to be positioned successfully.

Specific Expectations

MM1.01 - classify products according to type (e.g., consumer, industrial, institutional products;

MM1.02 - apply the product life cycle curve to different types of products;

MM1.03 - demonstrate an understanding of the importance of branding;

MM1.04 - explain how products are positioned in terms of demographics and lifestyles;

MM1.05 - demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics of effective packaging and labelling;

MP3.03 - explain how marketing affects competition between products;

TM2.02 - describe ways in which marketing activities (e.g., packaging, labelling) have been influenced by the environmental movement.

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 2a - listen actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE 2b - read, understand, and use written materials effectively;

CGE 2c - present information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others;

CGE 2d - write and speak fluently in one or both of Canada’s official languages;

CGE 3b - create, adapt, and evaluate new ideas in light of the common good;

CGE 3d - make decisions in light of gospel values with an informed moral conscience;

CGE 3f - examine, evaluate, and apply knowledge of interdependent systems (physical, political, ethical, socio-economic, and ecological) for the development of a just and compassionate society;

CGE 4b - demonstrate flexibility and adaptability;

CGE 4d - respond to, manage, and constructively influence change in a discerning manner;

CGE 5a - work effectively as an interdependent team member;

CGE 5e - respect the rights, responsibilities, and contributions of self and others;

CGE 7f - respect and affirm the diversity and interdependence of the world’s peoples and cultures;

CGE 7g - respect and understand the history, cultural heritage, and pluralism of today’s contemporary society;

CGE 7i - respect the environment and uses resources wisely.

Planning Notes

·         The teacher should collect a variety of package examples for this activity.

·         Provide supplies for students when they are creating their packaging assignment.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Have students conceptualize an original consumer product in class.

2.   Define the process of market segmentation, including: demographic, geographic, benefit use, etc.

3.       Hand out Appendix 2.1.1 – Consumer Lifestyles and Demographics for explanations of demographic and lifestyles segments.

4.   Students are to identify and develop a demographic/lifestyle profile that outlines the needs of their target group.

5.   Introduce the concept of branding by having students complete a pre-test that gauges their knowledge and awareness of brand names (e.g., for each of the following products have students record the first brand name that comes to mind: Ketchup, Hand Soap, Canned Soup, Frozen Dinner, Chewing Gum, Deodorant, Hot Dog, and TV). This leads to a discussion of the significance of branding.

6.   Define and differentiate generic, private, and brand labels.

7.   Students are to develop a generic, private, or brand name for their product and justify their selection.

8.   Discuss the legal requirements of packaging and labelling in Canada. The teacher is to bring in a variety of package examples to illustrate effective design and or required elements.

9.   Have students create an actual package for their brand. Ensure students follow a prescribed checklist that accounts for elements such as the legal requirements, UPC Code, use of colour, lettering, type of illustration, and originality.

10.  Hand out Appendix 2.1.2 – Product Life Cycle to introduce the concepts of the stages of the Product Life Cycle Curve.

11.  Students place their product on the appropriate category of the Product Life Cycle.

12.  The teacher gives a written test on this activity.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Diagnostic

·         Checklist

·         Pre-test

Formative

·         Development of generic, private, or brand name for their product (Knowledge/Understanding, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         Packaging Assignment (Application, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         Product Life Cycle Exercise (Knowledge/Understanding)

Summative

·         Written test (Knowledge/Understanding, Application, Thinking/Inquiry)

Accommodations

·         Teachers should be aware of students that require modification to the mandated expectations for this course. See Ontario Secondary Schools (p. 24 5.4.4)

·         Students requiring enrichment could be asked to mentor peers requiring extra assistance.

·         Refer to Accommodations Chart if required.

Resources

Print

Barnes, J., M. Etzel, M. Sommers, W. Stanton, and B. Walker. Fundamentals of Marketing, 8th Canadian ed. Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 1998. ISBN 0-07-560436-1

Bearden, W. Marketing W/Powerweb Package, Third Edition. Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 2000. ISBN 0-07-246128-4

Careers in a Package. The Packaging Career Council of Canada. Packaging Association of Canada, 1998. Contact information – www.packagingcareers.org

Foot, David and Daniel Stoffman. Boom Bust and Echo 2000: Profiting from the Demographic Shift in the New Millennium. Toronto, ON: Stoddart, 2000.

Popcorn, Faith and Lys Marigold. Clicking 16 Trends to Future Fit Your Life, Your Work and Your Business. New York, NY: Harper Collins Publisher, 1996.

Appendices

Appendix 2.1.1 – Consumer Lifestyles and Demographics

Appendix 2.1.2 – Product Life Cycle


Appendix 2.1.1 – Consumer Lifestyles and Demographic Groups

Consumer Lifestyles

Cocooning

The strong desire to stay at home and protect ourselves from the outside world. Stay home and watch a video on the VCR instead of going out to a movie theatre.

Clanning

The inclination to belong to a group, thus giving a person the feeling of security and validating beliefs.

Egonomics

Looking for ways to make personal statements. Plastic surgery - “I” want to look better

Being Alive

Growing awareness of good health and the concept of “wellness.”

Health Food Stores, Fitness Gyms

People want to enhance the quality not just the length of their lives.

Cashing Out

Working men and women who have questioned the value of their high paying career and opted to leave that life and return to a simpler lifestyle.

SOS
(Save Our Society)

People that want to protect our planet and rediscover a social conscience of what is right and wrong.

Adults as Learners

People who want to return to school.

Demographic Groups

Baby Boomers born between 1946-1966 are split into two groups:

Front End Boomers

·         In their fifties, living very comfortably

·         Occupy senior positions in companies

·         Earning 30% more than their fathers did

·         Benefited from owning real estate

Generation X

·         Thirty something and struggling in a career

·         Earning 10% less than their fathers

·         Were in overcrowded schools and suffered from being a large cohort

·         Some individuals lost money in real estate because they bought houses at their peak value before the market crashed in the early 90s

The Baby Busters born between 1967-1979

·         Resemble the front end baby boomers in that they are idealistic and may for example, take a year off to visit Europe

·         Pay attention to social issues such as AIDS and the Environment

·         Have better employment possibilities than Gen X contingent due to their computer experience

·         Benefited from small classes and because this cohort was not as large as Gen X

The Baby-Boom Echo born between 1980 -1995

·         Outlook for them is not as bad as the Gen X contingent but not as good as the Baby Busters

·         Larger schools and more competition for jobs

The Future born between 1995-2010

·         These kids should be alright because they are part of a small cohort


Appendix 2.1.2

Product Life Cycle

 

 

1.   Introduction (e.g., High-speed Cable Modems)

·         Product is launched into the market with a full scale marketing program

·         This is the most riskiest stage because a lot of money of spent on consumer acceptance of the product

·         The company spends more money on stimulating demand for the product because there is little competition

2.   Growth (e.g., Cell Phones)

·         Market-acceptance stage

·         Sales and profits rise, often at a rapid rate

·         Competitors enter the market as profits look attractive

·         At the end of the stage profits lower because of the increased competition

3.   Maturity (e.g., Analog TV)

·         Sales and profits decrease causing marginal producers to go under

·         Sales promotions and discounts occur in this stage

4.   Decline (e.g., Tape Cassettes)

·         Need for product disappears

·         A decision to abandon or re-introduce into the market occurs


Activity 2.2:  What Price is Right?

Time:  420 minutes

Description

Students explore the various factors that influence how prices are set. Moreover, they analyse pricing strategies and policies and their impact on the sale of goods and services. Students realize that pricing strategies contribute to the level of a company’s profit. However, they understand that profitability can be attained within the precepts of our faith.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  The Marketing Mix

Overall Expectations

MMV.02 - identify the factors involved in product pricing.

Specific Expectations

MM2.01 - explain the factors that affect the price of products;

MM2.02 - identify the pricing strategies used to promote the sale of products (e.g., skimming, market penetration);

MM2.03 - describe the impact of pricing policies on sales of goods and services.

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 2a - listen actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE 2b - read, understand, and use written materials effectively;

CGE 2c - present information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others;

CGE 2d - write and speak fluently one or both of Canada’s official languages;

CGE 3b - create, adapt, and evaluate new ideas in light of the common good;

CGE 3f - examine, evaluate, and apply knowledge of interdependent systems (physical, political, ethical, socio-economic, and ecological) for the development of a just and compassionate society;

CGE 4b - demonstrate flexibility and adaptability;

CGE 5f - exercise Christian leadership in the achievement of individual and group goals.

Planning Notes

·         The teacher posts an example of a word cluster in the classroom.

·         Schedule 75 minutes in the computer lab for Internet research. If the lab is not available the Library/Resource Centre’s reference area can be substituted.

·         If students have access to a computer lab during the delivery of this course, they must be cognizant of the school or board’s policy regarding the ethical and safe use of the Internet.

·         The teacher should contact representatives at the supermarkets to make them aware of the culminating activity.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   As a class, create a word cluster with “price” as the centre word. The teacher records students’ responses on the board. From this list, definitions for the following should be discussed: fixed costs, variable costs, break-even analysis, demand/supply, cost-plus pricing, everyday low pricing, loss leader pricing, odd pricing, penetration pricing, predatory pricing, psychological pricing, etc. Teachers are encouraged to use newspaper or flyer advertisements to highlight each definition.

2.   Show the pricing segment of the video The Reasonably-Priced World of Marketing to reinforce the principles of pricing and pricing strategies.

3.   Introduce how organizational objectives can dictate a firm’s pricing strategy by showing the students a number of slogans and or company policies that revolve around the issue of price.

4.   As an in-class exercise, students are to perform an Internet search of ten companies selected by the teacher. Through their research of each site, they are to create a report, using a word-processing software package, which lists and briefly explains how the company’s slogan and/or operating policy is price related. Students cut and paste the slogans and/or operating policies into their report to corroborate their explanations.

5.   The teacher should focus on how the cost structure of a product, shapes its price. Specifically state how fixed costs, variable costs, break-even analysis and cost-plus pricing relate to product pricing. Create a similar table to Appendix 2.2.1 – Pricing Exercise on the board that clearly shows how these elements fit together.

6.   Have students complete Appendix 2.2.1 – Pricing Exercise.

7.   As a culminating activity, have students visit at least two supermarket stores. They are to research ten different types of products that satisfy different needs. Students create a comparative table using a word-processing software package that outlines: store name, brands offered, package sizes, price ranges, quantities visible to the consumer, supply/demand issues, pricing strategy used (e.g., competitive, psychological, etc.), and location of the product in the store (e.g., the middle of isle, lower shelf). This table is followed by a one-page report that makes a recommendation based on the student’s findings, for those shoppers who are looking for value in terms of quality and price.

8.   The teacher gives a written test at the end of this activity.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Diagnostic

·         Word Cluster

Formative

·         In-class exercise (Application, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         Appendix 2.2.1 – Pricing Exercise (Knowledge/Understanding, Application)

Summative

·         Written test (Knowledge/Understanding, Application, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         Supermarket Culminating Activity (Knowledge/Understanding, Application, Thinking/Inquiry)

Accommodations

·         The teacher may need to modify the complexity of pricing examples and teach the use of a calculator.

·         Refer to Accommodations Chart if required.

Resources

The Reasonably-Priced World of Marketing. Virginia: Cerebellum Corporation, 1998. 10 min.

Appendices

Appendix 2.2.1 – Pricing Exercise


Appendix 2.2.1

Pricing Exercise Student Copy

 

Unit Price

 

 

(1)

Unit Variable Costs

 

(2)

Contribution to Overhead

 

 

(1)-(2) = (3)

Overhead (total fixed costs)

(4)

Break-Even Point

 

 

(4) ÷ (3) = (5)

Markup (percent of unit price)

 

(6)

Retail Price

(cost plus)

(7)

$60

$30

$30

$20 000

667 units

45%

$87

$70

$42

$28

$20 000

714 units

30%

$91

$80

$56

$24

$20 000

833 units

25%

$100

$90

$67

$23

$20 000

870 units

20%

$108

$100

$79

$21

$20 000

952 units

10%

$110

$110

$90

$20

$20 000

1000 units

5%

$115.50

 

 

 

 

Unit Price

 

 

(1)

Unit Variable Costs

 

(2)

Contribution to Overhead

 

 

(1)-(2) = (3)

Overhead (total fixed costs)

(4)

Break-Even Point

 

 

(4) ÷ (3) = (5)

Mark-up (percent of unit price)

 

(6)

Retail Price (cost plus)

(7)

$60

$30

 

$20 000

 

45%

 

$70

$42

 

$20 000

 

30%

 

$80

$56

 

$20 000

 

25%

 

$90

$67

 

$20 000

 

20%

 

$100

$79

 

$20 000

 

10%

 

$110

$90

 

$20 000

 

5%

 

 

Teacher Copy


Activity 2.3:  The Right Place!

Time:  420 minutes

Description

Students investigate why distribution policies may vary for the same or different products in a variety of markets. They compare the advantages and disadvantages of various shipping strategies. Students examine different systems of inventory control, how information technology affects each system and contributes to the effective and efficient use of resources.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  The Marketing Mix

Overall Expectations

MMV.03 - compare a variety of distribution strategies.

Specific Expectations

MM3.01 - compare the channels of distribution for a variety of products in a variety of markets;

MM3.02 - describe how effective and appropriate distribution policies may vary from product to product and for the same product;

MM3.03 - compare the advantages and disadvantages of the various ways in which goods can be shipped from one point to another;

MM3.04 - explain different systems of inventory control;

MM3.05 - demonstrate an understanding of how technology, including information technology, has altered distribution and inventory control systems;

TM2.01 - identify marketing issues created by changes in information technology (e.g., shopping on the Internet creates new competition, cell phones connect shoppers to home, new information-gathering techniques limit privacy).

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 2a - listen actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE 2b - read, understand, and use written materials effectively;

CGE 2d - write and speak fluently one or both of Canada’s official languages;

CGE 2e - use and integrate the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology, and information systems to enhance the quality of life;

CGE 3f - examine, evaluate, and apply knowledge of interdependent systems (physical, political, ethical, socio-economic, and ecological) for the development of a just and compassionate society;

CGE 4b - demonstrate flexibility and adaptability;

CGE 5a - work effectively as an interdependent team member;

CGE 5e - respect the rights, responsibilities, and contributions of self and others;

CGE 7f - respect and affirm the diversity and interdependence of the world’s peoples and cultures;

CGE 7i - respect the environment and uses resources wisely.

Planning Notes

·         The teacher may need to re-acquaint him/herself with the Jigsaw cooperative learning strategy. All handouts for the jigsaw activity are to be prepared beforehand.

·         Plan a field trip to a manufacturing plant that uses the “kanban” inventory system such as Toyota Manufacturing Company in Cambridge, Ontario. Ensure that you book the field trip well in advance. The field trip consists of a 10- to 15-minute video presentation, followed by a 20-minute tour of the facilities. A question answer period occurs after the tour. Request for an information package to be sent to your school well before the tour. This information will help you construct your assignment for this field trip.

·         If a field trip to Toyota is not possible, book a guest speaker or request for an information package about their “kanban” inventory system that can be used to prepare a Socratic lesson.

·         Options include: a) give students an Internet research assignment that investigates the use of the “kanban” system in the automobile industry.b) plan a field trip to an automaker. The objective is to allow students to see a modern inventory control approach in practice.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Define the term “channels of distribution.” List and explain each of the five distribution channels (Producer-Consumer; Producer, Retailer, Consumer; Producer, Wholesaler, Retailer, Consumer; Producer, Agent, Retailer, Consumer; and Producer, Agent, Wholesaler, Retailer, Consumer). Tangible product examples should be used to illustrate each channel.

2.   Have students complete an exercise that asks them to indicate the channel(s) of distribution through which ten assigned products are most likely to be distributed. They are to explain their choice(s). In addition, students are to identify five different products that could travel through each of the five aforementioned channels of distribution.

3.   Engage students in a discussion that focuses on the physical distribution of tangible products within each channel. Create a chart on the board that cross references the major transportation methods (rail, water, highway and air) with the following criteria: speed, cost, reliability in meeting delivery schedules, variety of products carried, number of geographic locations served, and most suitable products. The advantages and disadvantages of each transportation method should evolve.

4.   Introduce the factors that affect the choice of channels selected by a business, using the Jigsaw cooperative learning strategy. Create groups of four (home group). Hand out an information sheet that outlines one of the four factors affecting the choice of channels by a business to each member of the home groups (market considerations, product considerations, intermediaries considerations and company considerations). Assemble expert groups according to each factor. Students discuss the information with their expert group members in conjunction with the teacher to ensure a thorough understanding of the material. Students reassemble in their home groups to report their findings.

5.   Have students complete an assignment that revolves around a new product such as a MP3 Player (a hand held device that plays digitally saved music). They determine what needs to be known about the product (product characteristics, price point, promotional aspects, and target market) to establish a channel of distribution. Students are to justify their choice of distribution channel using market, product, company, and middleman considerations.

6.   Introduce different inventory control systems used by some of the most dynamic corporations (e.g., Just-In-Time (JIT) Inventory and Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) systems). Your focus should be on (JIT) due to its immense popularity and use of information technology.

7.   Your explanations of (JIT) should include Wal-Mart’s “cross-docking” and Toyota’s “kanban” systems. Have students read File 16-4 – Logistics Lessons from Wal-Mart – p. 482 of Fundamentals of Marketing, 7th ed. to reinforce their understanding of the “cross-docking” strategy.

8.   The “kanban” system can best be exemplified by taking students on a field trip to a manufacturing plant, which employs such an inventory control system. Construct an assignment that ensures that students address the kanban system (see Planning Notes).

9.   A written test should be created to ascertain students’ knowledge of elements outlined in this activity.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Diagnostic

·         Informal observation of Jigsaw Exercise

Formative

·         Channel of Distribution Exercise (Knowledge/Understanding, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         New Product Distribution Assignment (Application, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         Field Trip (Knowledge/Understanding, Communication, Thinking/Inquiry)

Summative

·         Written test (Knowledge/Understanding, Application, Thinking/Inquiry, Communication)

Accommodations

·         The teacher may use mnemonics to teach the five major distribution channels

·         Refer to Accommodations Chart if necessary.

Resources

Barnes, J., M. Etzel., M. Sommers, W. Stanton, and B. Walker. Fundamentals of Marketing, 8th Canadian ed. Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 1998. ISBN 0-07-560436-1

Bearden, W. Marketing W/Powerweb Package, 3rd ed. Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 2000.
ISBN 0-07-246128-4

 

Activity 2.4a:  “The Medium is the Message” Assignment

Time:  300 minutes

Description

This activity allows students to evaluate the various forms of advertising media (e.g., television, radio, billboard, Internet). They assess the effectiveness of advertisements in each of these media in light of the common good. In addition, with an informed moral conscience, students assess how e-commerce and communication impact product promotion opportunities and strategies.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Product Promotion, Issues in Marketing, International Marketing and Product Positioning

Overall Expectations

MMV.04 - distinguish between product marketing and product promotion.

Specific Expectations

TM2.03 - present a summary of current issues that consumer consumers that are affecting promotion and marketing (e.g., concern about racism, sexism, truth in advertising, use of child labour in manufacturing);

TM3.04 - report on the cultural, linguistic, and geographical difficulties that arise when corporations market their products aboard;

MM1.05 - demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics of effective packaging and labelling;

MM4.01 - compare the various methods of advertising a product;

MM4.02 - assess the effectiveness of advertisements in each of the major media;

MM4.03 - describe how electronic commerce and communication (e.g., telemarketing, the Internet, e-mail, desktop publishing software) are affecting product promotion opportunities and strategies;

MM4.04 - describe the role of the public-relations function in a business.

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 2a - listen actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE 2b - read, understand, and use written materials effectively;

CGE 2c - present information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others;

CGE 2d - write and speak fluently one or both of Canada’s official languages;

CGE 2e - use and integrate the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology, and information systems to enhance the quality of life;

CGE 3b - create, adapt, and evaluate new ideas in light of the common good;

CGE 4b - demonstrate flexibility and adaptability;

CGE 5e - respect the rights, responsibilities, and contributions of self and others;

CGE 5f - exercise Christian leadership in the achievement of individual and group goals;

CGE 7f - respect and affirm the diversity and interdependence of the world’s peoples and cultures.

Planning Notes

·         The teacher should have examples of various advertising campaigns (e.g., television commercials, radio, magazine, and newspaper advertisements) in order to cite some examples of current campaign strategies.

·         Access to the Internet would allow students to view some current on-line advertising formats (e.g., banners, pop-up screens, radio ads, and videos).

·         The teacher should research several examples of public relations crises (e.g., Tylenol scare – 1980s, Firestone Tires on Ford Explorers – 1999, etc.).

·         The SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats), analysis approach to identify and solve business case problems should be illustrated and a sample case study/problem should be reviewed with the class prior to this lesson.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher begins a class discussion regarding the various forms of advertising media (e.g., television, billboard, radio, Internet). The teacher creates a list of advertising media by asking students to brainstorm ideas identifying as many advertising “vehicles” as they can. The teacher asks students to recall one or two commercials or advertisements for each of the media identified. The teacher then shows some current examples of advertisements.

2.   The teacher forms groups and assigns an advertising medium to each group. Distribute
Appendix 2.4a.1 – The Medium is the Message Assignment.

3.   In pairs, students discuss where they feel the future of advertising is going (i.e., more Internet ads, shorter television commercials (e.g., five seconds), more or less visible minorities in advertising). A teacher-led discussion follows on ethics in advertising and the role that the media/advertising plays in society. These topics may be further explored by asking students to prepare an opinion paper on one or several of these issues.

4.   In an effort to explore the role that public relations play in the promotional process, the teacher breaks the class into small groups and assigns a well-known company public relations crisis to each group. Each group is given the entire period to brainstorm ideas that will help the company solve its problem. A SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats), analysis approach should be outlined and utilized by each group. Each group is to prepare a press release outlining their proposed solution to the problem. Students should outline the advertising medium/media that would be utilized to inform the general public of how they plan to rectify the situation. Also, students may be asked to role-play the situation/problem and the proposed solution the class.

5.   A written test is administered at the end of this activity.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Diagnostic

·         Informal observation

·         Brainstorming

·         Recall (commercials/advertisements)

Formative

·         SWOT analysis (Application, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         Press release (Communication)

·         Role-play (Communication)

Summative

·         Appendix 2.4a.1 – The Medium is the Message Assignment (Knowledge/Understanding, Application, Communication, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         Written test (Knowledge/Understanding, Application, Thinking/Inquiry, Communication)

Accommodations

·         The teacher may need to employ peer-editing strategies when students create their press releases.

·         Refer to Accommodations Chart if required.

Resources

Textbooks

Barnes, J., M. Etzel, M. Sommers, W. Stanton, and B. Walker. Fundamentals of Marketing, 8th Canadian ed. Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 1998. ISBN 0-07-560436-1

Bearden, W. Marketing W/Powerweb Package, 3rd ed. Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 2000.
ISBN 0-07-246128-4

Magazines

Advertising Age
Publishes articles on trends in the advertising industry and on up-and-coming companies and people. Contains a database for industry research.

PRWeek
Major print publication’s on-line version provides comprehensive and current public relations information. Features event and job listings.

Electronic Resources

Canadian Consumer Information - http://www.consumerinformation.ca/
This government site has information for consumers concerning children as consumers of industrial automotive products.

Other

Coca-Cola Ltd. Coca-Cola Business Studies Program. Toronto, ON, 1994.

Appendices

Appendix 2.4a.1 – The Medium is the Message Assignment


Appendix 2.4a.1

“The Medium is the Message” Assignment

 

Name:                                                             Date:

 

Instructions

1.   Your group has been assigned the task of studying an advertising medium and preparing a research report based on your findings.

 

2.   Your research report must include the following elements:

·         the origins and evolution of this medium, general costs of advertising (i.e., rate cards), the strengths and weaknesses of using this form of advertising vs. other forms of advertising, a list of product or product categories that commonly use this form of advertising, a list of advertising firms specializing in this medium, any pertinent scheduling information (e.g., must submit finished copy and artwork two-three months in advance for a magazine ad), and any unique opportunities presented by this medium (e.g., newspaper and magazine advertising allows for the “pass along factor”).

·         a poster/collage that illustrates some of the key points of your topic

 

3.   Your group will report back the class by doing an oral or electronic slide-show presentation on your advertising medium. Also your group will present the poster/collage and distribute a two-page typed summary handout to the class.

 

4.   Finally, at the end of your presentation the class will fill out a written test comprised of five true/false and five multiple-choice questions prepared by your group based on what you presented.


Activity 2.4b:  Promotional Plan Activity

Time:  420 minutes

Description

Students engage in an activity that allows for a complete understanding of the factors involved in establishing a promotional plan that is socially, fiscally, and morally responsible.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Product Promotion, Issues in Marketing, International Marketing and Product Positioning

Overall Expectations

MMV.04 - distinguish between product marketing and product promotion.

Specific Expectations

MM4.05 - identify criteria that should be considered in evaluating a promotional plan;

TM2.03 - present a summary of current issues that are affecting consumer promotion and marketing (e.g., concern about racism, sexism, and truth in advertising, use of child labour in manufacturing);

TM3.04 - report on the cultural, linguistic, and geographical difficulties that arise when corporations market their products aboard;

MM1.05 - demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics of effective packaging and labelling.

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 2a - listen actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE 2b - read, understand, and use written materials effectively;

CGE 2c - present information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others;

CGE 2d - write and speak fluently one or both of Canada’s official languages;

CGE 2e - use and integrate the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology, and information systems to enhance the quality of life;

CGE 3b - create, adapt, and evaluate new ideas in light of the common good;

CGE 4b - demonstrate flexibility and adaptability;

CGE 5a - work effectively as an interdependent team member;

CGE 5e - respect the rights, responsibilities, and contributions of self and others;

CGE 5f - exercise Christian leadership in the achievement of individual and group goals;

CGE 7f - respect and affirm the diversity and interdependence of the world’s peoples and cultures.

Planning Notes

·         The teacher should be aware of all elements that may be included in a promotional plan including advertising (e.g., television commercials, radio and magazine ads), sales promotion techniques (e.g., coupons, bonus packs), public relations, personal selling techniques, and publicity. A brief review of how to create a cluster diagram may be necessary. A brief review of demographic profiles and the AIDA (Attention, Interest, Desire, Action) formula may be necessary. The teacher should book a computer lab or Library/Resource Centre to allow students to do research and to generate their website. The teacher should preview the step-by-step website launch programs available at sites such as www.geocities.com, www.angelfire.com, or www.homestead.com.

·         Appendix 2.4b.3 – The Marketing Plan outline has been added for the convenience of the teacher. This culminating activity should be handed out at the end of this unit. This outline should provide guidance on how the Marketing Plan should be shaped keeping in mind the expectations of this course.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher begins a class discussion of what elements comprise a promotional campaign. The teacher asks students to recall/brainstorm any promotional campaigns and create a cluster diagram (with the product/brand located in the centre) of the elements that are contained in this campaign. Some examples of well known promotional campaigns include Eggs-Get Crackin’ (includes television, radio, magazine, and billboard ads), Coca-Cola-Always Coca-Cola included radio, television, magazine, and transit ads and Chevy Trucks – Like a Rock, (includes newspaper, television, radio, magazine, and billboard ads).

2.   The teacher discusses the elements that made these campaigns successful.

3.   The teacher should outline/estimate some of the general costs (i.e., budget) for these campaigns

4.   The teacher divides the class into small groups of three or four and distributes Appendix 2.4b.1 – The Promotional Plan Assignment.

5.   Each group should create a web address (e.g., ourproduct.com) and launch a website as part of their promotional campaign and present their promotional plan to the class.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Diagnostic

·         Informal observation

·         Brainstorming

Formative

·         Self- and peer checklists

Summative

·         Appendix 2.4b.1 – The Promotion Plan Assignment (Knowledge/Understanding, Application, Thinking/Inquiry, Communication)

·         Oral presentations (Communication)

·         Website (Application, Thinking/Inquiry, Communication)

Accommodations

·         Before handing out the Promotional Plan Assignment, the teacher may need to select groups based on computer literacy skills to ensure that there is a diversity of knowledge in each group.

·         Refer to Accommodations Chart if required.

Resources

Textbooks

Barnes, J., M. Etzel, M. Sommers, W. Stanton, and B. Walker. Fundamentals of Marketing, 8th Canadian ed. Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 1998. ISBN 0-07-560436-1

Bearden, W. Marketing W/Powerweb Package, 3rd ed. Toronto, ON: McGraw-Hill Ryerson, 2000.
ISBN 0-07-246128-4

Magazines

Social Marketing, Novartis – Take a free, short on-line course in social marketing, provided by the Novartis Foundation for Sustainable Development.

Target Marketing – On-line magazine is for the direct-marketing industry. Subscribers can get news, find articles, and comb the directory of service providers.

Electronic Resources

Marketing Magazine - http://www.marketingmag.ca (on-line version of Marketing Magazine)

Angelfire – http://www.angelfire.com/ (website launch program)

Geocities – http://www.geocities.com/ (website launch program)

Homestead – http://www.homestead.com/ (website launch program)

Appendices

Appendix 2.4b.1 – The Promotion Plan Assignment

Appendix 2.4b.2 – Promotional Plan Assignment Rubric

Appendix 2.4b.3 – The Marketing Plan Outline

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix 2.4b.1

Promotional Plan Assignment

 

Name:                                                             Date:

 

Instructions

1.   Your group has been asked to create/invent a new product/service to be launched into the Canadian marketplace.

2.   A brief overview of what your new product is including brand name, slogan, and logo (sketch), as well as a demographic profile of your intended target market, must be submitted prior to beginning your project.

3.   Your task is to launch this new product given a promotional budget of $1 000 000.

4.   The overall goal is to generate consumer awareness and secure a “top three” market share ranking in your industry by the end of the first year.

5.   In order to launch this product, your group must create a detailed promotional plan consisting of the following elements:

·         An outline of which promotional elements will be used in the launch and throughout the first year (e.g., website, television, radio, magazine, introductory coupons, bonus-packs, discounted pricing, personal-selling techniques, publicity generated and public relations agents).

·         A timeline, outlining the launch dates/air times and frequency for each promotional medium utilized. Specifically, if television is used, which television stations, which dates, during which shows and how often. The same should be done for radio, magazine, billboard, and all forms of promotion used in this launch.

·         A table outlining the cost breakdown (e.g., estimated current costs, four-colour full-page Vogue or GQ magazine ad) of each promotional element used.

·         An analysis of the reach (e.g., audience size) for each promotional element.

·         One copy of each element of the promotional campaign (e.g., any television commercials, radio or magazine ads, coupons, and bonus-pack labels produced must be submitted).


Appendix 2.4b.2

Promotional Plan Assignment Rubric

 

Category/Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Knowledge/Understanding

Required elements of the promotional plan

- demonstrates a limited understanding of the required elements

- demonstrates a moderate understanding of the required elements

- demonstrates a considerable understanding of the required elements

- demonstrates a high degree of understanding of the required elements

Thinking/Inquiry

Thinking/inquiry skills evident the promotional plan (e.g., AIDA formula)

- demonstrates a limited amount of thinking/ inquiry skills

- demonstrates a moderate amount of thinking/ inquiry skills

- demonstrates a considerable amount of thinking/inquiry skills

- demonstrates a high degree of thinking/ inquiry skills

Communication

Communication of the advertisements with regards to the intended message and audience

Creativity of Presentations (e.g., role-play or slide-show presentation)

- communicates the intended message with a limited degree of effectiveness

 

- demonstrates a limited amount of creativity

- communicates the intended message with a moderate degree of effectiveness

 

- demonstrates a moderate amount of creativity

- communicates the intended message with a considerable degree of effectiveness

- demonstrates a considerable amount of creativity

- communicates the intended message with a high degree of effectiveness

 

- demonstrates a high degree of creativity

Application

Use of budget funds in generating consumer awareness and securing a “Top three” market share

The use of technology in creating the website

- utilizes budget funds in a limited capacity

 

 

- displays a limited amount of computer applications

- utilizes budget funds in a moderate capacity

 

- displays a moderate amount of computer applications

- utilizes budget funds in a considerable effective capacity

 

- displays a considerable amount of computer applications

- utilizes budget funds with a high degree of effective and creative capacity

- displays a high degree of computer applications

Note: A student whose achievement is below level 1 (50%) has not met the expectations for this assignment or activity.


Appendix 2.4b.3

The Marketing Plan Outline

 

*It is suggested that the Promotional Plan Culminating Activity should be dovetailed into this project.

Part I – The Situation Analysis: Where are we now?

Historical background

·         Nature of the product/firm, SWOT Analysis

Consumer Profile

·         Who are the customers we are trying to serve?

·         What market segments exist?

·         How many consumers are there?

·         How much do they buy and why?

·         Are there significant international market segments?

Competitive Analysis

·         Given the nature of the markets – size, characteristics, competitive activities, and strategies – what marketing opportunities exist for this firm?

Part II – Marketing Objectives: Where Do We Want to Go?

Sales Objectives

·         What level of sales volume can we achieve during the next year?

Profit Objectives

·         Given the sales level and the cost structure of the firm, what level of profits should be achieved?

Consumer Objectives

·         How will we serve our target market customers?

·         What do we want consumers to think about our firm?

Part III – Developing A Marketing Mix: What Should We Do with Each Marketing Mix Element?

Product/Service Decisions

·         What products should we offer to meet consumers’ needs?

·         What is the exact nature of these products?

Pricing Decisions

·         What price points should be used?

·         What pricing strategies should be considered?

Distribution Decisions

·         What channel(s) will be used in distributing our product offerings?

·         Where should they be located?

·         What should be their major characteristics?

Promotional Decisions

·         Insert Promotional Plan Culminating Activity

Financial Considerations

·         What will be the financial impact of this plan on a one-year projected income statement?

·         How does this income statement compare with our objectives?

Control Aspects

·         Human/Capital Resource Allocation

 

 

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