Course Profile   The Fashion Industry (HNB4O), Grade 12, Open, Combined

 

Unit 4:  The Business of Canadian Fashion

Time:  25 hours

 

Activity 4.1 | Activity 4.2 | Activity 4.3 | Activity 4.4 | Activity 4.5 | Activity 4.6

 

Unit Description

This unit explores the nature and scope of the Canadian fashion industry in view of geographic, cultural, economic, and international factors. Students examine the diversity and economic importance of smaller fashion markets. They investigate international factors that affect the Canadian apparel industry. Research and inquiry skills are used to examine special markets in order to design, construct, and market a garment adapted to satisfy the needs of a specific consumer population. Vocational opportunities in the world of fashion are explored, as well as the educational requirements leading to a career in the industry. In addition, students identify trends and forecast what the picture holds for the Canadian fashion industry. As students progress through this unit, they are mindful of the moral principles and economic choices that protect the dignity of the human person and their right to work that is gainful, satisfying, and contributes to the common good.

Unit Synopsis Chart

Activity

Learning Expectations

Assessment Categories

Tasks

4.1
The Hub of Canadian Fashion

 

4 hours

CFV.01, ISV.02, CF1.01, CF1.04, IS1.01
CGE2a, CGE3e

Thinking/ Inquiry

- Socratic lesson
- Group work
- One-page summary
- Group presentation

4.2
Accessories for all fashions

 

3 hours

CFV.01, ISV.02, CF1.03, IS2.02
CGE3f

Application

- Small business profiles
- Class discussion
- Questionnaire development
- Two page publication

4.3
Canada and The Global Fashion Scene

 

4 hours

CFV.01, CFV.03, ISV.02, CF1.02, CF3.03, IS2.02
CGE1d, CGE2b, CGE7e, CGE7f

Application

- Wardrobe research
- Class discussion
- Mind mapping
- Handout distribution
- Small group investigation
- Group presentation
- Editorial

4.4
Fashion for all needs

 

5 hours

CFV.02, DCV.01, FSV.03, ISV.01, ISV.02, CF2.02, DC1.04, FS3.01, IS1.02, IS2.01, IS2.02, IS2.03, IS2.04, IS2.05
CGE2b, CGE2d, CGE7g

Thinking/ Inquiry
Application

- Brainstorming
- Class discussion
- Group work
- Mini-marketing campaign
- Pair presentation

4.5
Exploring a Career in Fashion

 

5 hours

CFV.04, ISV.01, CF4.01, CF4.02, CF4.03, CF4.04, CF4.05, IS2.02, IS2.03
CGE5d

Knowledge/ Understanding
Thinking/ Inquiry

- Socratic lesson
- Brainstorming
- Group discussion
- Written report
- Guest speaker

4.6
Forecasting Canadian Fashion Trends

 

4 hours

CFV.02, ISV.04, ISV.05, CF2.03, CF2.04, IS3.02
CGE2b, CGE2c

Knowledge/ Understanding
Thinking/ Inquiry
Communication
Application

- Brainstorming
- Bulletin board development
- Class discussion

Unit Planning Notes

The teacher:

·         gathers specific products and/or descriptions of companies (Activity 4.1, T/L S 2);

·         gathers classroom resources on major Canadian fashion markets (Activity 4.1, T/L S 4);

·         locates videos, articles, or guest speakers for class presentation (Activity 4.2, T/L S 1 and
Activity 4.5, T/L S 12);

·         provides binder for compiling results (Activity 4.2, T/L S 6);

·         obtains a large current world map to be posted on bulletin board entitled, “Where Clothing and Accessories are Produced”(Activity 4.3, T/L S 2);

·         purchases coloured “dot” stickers (Activity 4.3, T/L S 2);

·         books library/resource centre and computer lab, where available (Activity 4.3, T/L S 7 and
Activity 4.5, T/L S 3, S 7);

·         assembles a wide variety of garments and/or pictures of garments (Activity 4.4, T/L S 3);

·         asks students to bring in items that reflect current fashion trends: personal items of clothing or accessories, music videos, photographs of street scenes, magazines, etc., for discussion
(Activity 4.6, T/L S 1);

·         provides bulletin board materials (e.g., poster paper, markers, access to digital camera, computer) (Activity 4.6, T/L S 5);

·         locates bulletin board space in the school (Activity 4.6, T/L S 5);

·         consults individual student IEPs for specific direction on accommodation for exceptional students and other students who have IEPs.

 

Activity 4.1:  The Hub of Canadian Fashion

Time:  4 hours

Description

Students assume the role of a business consultant in order to examine the factors affecting the location of major Canadian fashion markets. Through case study analysis of a major Canadian fashion business, students make recommendations to their “clients” concerning an appropriate major urban location for their business. In their role of a business consultant, students recognize the need to listen actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE2a - listens actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE3e - adopts a holistic approach to life by integrating learning from various subject areas and experience.

Strand(s):  The Canadian Fashion Industry, Research and Inquiry Skills

Overall Expectations

CFV.01 - demonstrate an understanding of the importance of the fashion industry in Canada and the interrelationship of the primary and secondary fashion markets;

ISV.02 - correctly use terminology associated with the fashion industry.

Specific Expectations

CF1.01 - explain the geographic and other factors involved in the location of fashion markets in Canada;

CF1.04 - differentiate between the primary and the secondary fashion markets;

IS1.01 - correctly use terminology associated with the fashion, clothing, and textile industries (e.g., primary and secondary fashion markets, haute couture, trickle-down theory, fibre art).

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should:

·         have collaborative/cooperative group skills;

·         have a basic knowledge of computer operations and Internet;

·         have critical thinking skills to interpret statistical data;

·         have effective verbal skills to participate in discussion/group work;

·         have writing skills to complete a one-page summary.

Planning Notes

The teacher:

·         prepares Socratic lesson (T/L S 1);

·         gathers specific products and/or descriptions of companies (T/L S 2);

·         gathers classroom resources on major Canadian fashion markets (T/L S 4);

·         copies and/or modifies written summary rubric (T/L S 5).

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher presents Socratic lesson on:

·         primary and secondary fashion markets;

·         factors affecting the location of major Canadian fashion markets (e.g., Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Halifax, Winnipeg, Calgary). This should include information on historical, economic, geographic, political, and social components. (Appendix 4.1.1 – template for Factors that determine the location of major fashion markets) Students record information.

2.   Students form small groups and choose from a ‘grab bag’ of company descriptions/specific products. Company descriptions should include information based on an existing Canadian manufacturer. Information should be provided on size of company, number of employees, detailed product description, and goals for relocation. In their decision to relocate, students should incorporate the company’s business philosophy as it reflects gospel values.

3.   Each small group assumes the role of Canadian business consultants. Their task is to assist their client (from the ‘grab bag’) to choose an appropriate major Canadian fashion market/location for production. Issues to be addressed include: where to locate and why?; where would the primary market be and why?; who is the market?; where is the secondary market located?; and how will these issues affect the location decision?

4.   The teacher provides classroom resources for students’ use (e.g., city maps, geographic/population profiles of cities, spending patterns, chamber of commerce information, pictures of the city).

5.   Each student develops a one-page summary of recommendations for delivery to their client (class) to be evaluated by the teacher.

6.   Students make a short presentation of their recommendations to the class.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Task/Product

Tool

Purpose

Achievement Chart Categories

One-page summary of recommendations for their client (class) (T/L S 5)

Rubric for Written Summary
(teacher developed)

Summative

Knowledge/Understanding
Thinking/Inquiry
Communication
Application

Accommodations

·         A peer tutor could be arranged to assist students who need extra help.

·         Modification of notes to be copied or a handout could be given to students where required.

·         For students who are experiencing difficulties include a large map of Canada with cities labelled, various pictures of garments and accessories, and the name of the city where it is produced. Students attach the garment and accessory pictures on the appropriate city.

·         Where required, break the assignment into short, sequential steps and provide deadlines to students where time management skills are weak.

·         For enrichment, students create their own business and determine an appropriate Canadian market/location for production based on the criteria listed in (T/L S 3).

Resources

Texts

Catechism of the Catholic Church. Ottawa, Ontario: Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, 1994. ISBN 0-88997-281-8

Cartwright, Fraser. Urban Dynamics. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1991. ISBN 0-19-54715-6

Costa, John Dalla. The Ethical Imperative: Why Moral Leadership is Good Business. Toronto: Harper Collins Publishers, Ltd., 1998. ISBN 0-00-638577-X

Pennock, Michael. Catholic Social Teaching and Living Justice. Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 2000. ISBN 0-87793-698-6

Wolfe, Mary. Fashion. Tinley Park, IL: The Goodheart Willcox Company, Inc., 1997.
ISBN 0-870067273

Audio/video

Kettle Creek video – How the Kettle Creek business started, evolved

Websites

The Canadian Apparel Federation – http://www.apparel.ca

A database on fashion and visual merchandising – http://www.fashionwindows.com/fashion_designers

Maps – www.mapquest.com

www.worldmedia.fr/fashion

www.minimidimaxi.com/Canadian-fashion/

www.ceps.statcan.ca/english/profil

Associations

Apparel Manufacturers Marketing Association of Ontario, 1050-130 Slater Street, Ottawa, ON K1P 6E2

The Union of Needletrades, Industrial and Textile Employees, 15 Gervais Drive, Suite 700, Don Mills, ON M3C 1Y8

 

Activity 4.2:  Accessories for all fashions

Time:  3 hours

Description

This activity encourages students to investigate and recognize the role and impact that small fashion-related businesses have on local communities. Through a class-developed questionnaire students explore aspects such as, the historical development of the business, suppliers, production, community involvement, and growth to demonstrate this impact. Through their exploration, students recognize the connections existing between business and the community, which fosters the development of a just and compassionate society (e.g., business involvement in activities such as local charities, sponsoring local teams, environmental protection, children camps, food banks, literacy programs, school links, hospitals).

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE3f - examines, evaluates, and applies knowledge of interdependent systems (physical, political, ethical, socio-economic, and ecological) for the development of a just and compassionate society.

Strand(s):  The Canadian Fashion Industry, Research and Inquiry

Overall Expectations

CFV.01 - demonstrate an understanding of the importance of the fashion industry in Canada and the interrelationship of the primary and secondary fashion markets;

ISV.02 - correctly use terminology associated with the fashion industry.

Specific Expectations

CF1.03 - describe the diverse nature and economic importance of specific segments of the clothing and fashion industry (e.g., footwear, small leather goods, hats, jewellery, sunglasses, umbrellas, wigs, specialized prostheses);

IS2.02 - organize and interpret information gathered from reliable sources, and summarize main points.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should:

·         have collaborative/cooperative group skills;

·         have critical thinking skills to interpret questionnaire results;

·         have effective verbal skills to participate in discussion/group work;

·         have writing skills to develop questionnaire.

Planning Notes

The teacher:

·         locates videos, articles, or guest speakers for class presentation (T/L S 1);

·         develops a list of possible businesses for investigation (T/L S 4);

·         photocopies class developed questionnaire for student use (T/L S 3);

·         provides binder for compiling results (T/L S 6).

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher presents profiles on one or two small businesses that have had an economic impact on their community. This could be in the form of an existing video, magazine or newspaper articles, or a guest speaker from a local, small, fashion-related business.

2.   The teacher directs discussion on the impact small fashion-related businesses may have on their local communities to include:

·         historical development of the business, use of local suppliers, production/manufacturing, distribution, community involvement, growth, etc.;

·         difference between a local company that sells products outside of the community and therefore brings money into the community as compared to a business which sells primarily to local residents and does not therefore, bring money into the community;

·         multiplier effect of manufacturing (for each local manufacturing job, there are four-to-five jobs created in other sectors);

·         if looking to relocate, may choose a smaller community to take advantage of lower taxes or municipal tax concessions, lower overhead and operating costs for manufacturing and retail enterprises and lower labour costs;

·         smaller businesses may have been developed by local people and therefore, remain located in that person’s community.

3.   Class develops a questionnaire for small fashion-related business owners that investigate these factors as well as how the business supports the community. A modified questionnaire is developed for students with special needs (Appendix 4.2.1 – About Your Business). Note: Students must be instructed to accept “no comment” as a valid answer to any questions, and to respect that people may choose not to respond at all.

4.   Students work individually or in pairs to investigate a small fashion-related business of their choice or provided by the teacher using the questionnaire through e-mail, personal interview, or telephone interview.

5.   Students individually compile results of their questionnaire into a two-page publication (could include company literature, sample advertisements, customer testimonials, and photographs of business). Students give a brief presentation of their results.

6.   The teacher puts together a binder that includes all results. This binder can be kept in the library/resource centre as a future reference for business or fashion-related courses.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Task

Tool

Purpose

Achievement Chart Categories

Organize and present information on small fashion-related businesses (T/L S 5)

Checklist

Summative

Thinking/Inquiry
Communication
Application

Accommodations

·         For students with a speech impairment, use e-mail to conduct the questionnaire.

·         For students with special needs, develop a modified questionnaire (Appendix 4.2.1 – About Your Business).

·         A peer tutor could be offered to aid a student with special needs to conduct the questionnaire and compile results into a publication, which highlights the gathered information.

·         Allow extra time to complete the assignment for students who need it.

·         For enrichment, students analyse information from the questionnaires and provide a written summary to profile the local fashion-related business in their community.

Resources

Books

Catechism of the Catholic Church. Ottawa, Ontario: Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, 1994. ISBN 0-88997-281-8

Costa, John Dalla. The Ethical Imperative Why Moral Leadership is Good Business. Toronto: HarperCollins, 1998. ISBN 0-00-638577-X

Pennock, Michael. Catholic Social Teaching and Living Justice. Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 2000. ISBN 0-87793-698-6

Articles

Pollock, Carol. “Fibre Optical.” The Muskokas. (October/November 2001): p. 14-19

Video

Cutting Their Own Cloth: Entrepreneurial Clothing Designers. Films for Social Sciences and the Humanities, 1999. Order number BVL10121, 22 min.

The Story of the West Coast Salish Knitters. NFB C9100028

Texts

Parks, Carol. Great Sewing Accessories – To Sew. New York: Sterling Publishing Co. Inc., 1997.
ISBN 0-8069-9566-1

Stegemeyer, Anne. Who’s Who in Fashion. NY: Fairchild Publications, 1996. ISBN 1-56365-040-2

Websites

Dorothy Grant, designer – www.dorothygrant.com

Linda Lundstrom, designer – http://www.lindalundstrom.com

Activity 4.3:  Canada and the Global Fashion Scene

Time:  4 hours

Description

Students design and conduct a survey to determine the extent to which individuals wear imported versus Canadian-made clothing. Following a brief analysis of the influence of imports, students prepare an editorial outlining how consumer decisions affect the Canadian fashion industry. Students investigate international factors that affect the Canadian apparel industry and summarize their findings in a report. Students’ written work reflects the attitudes and values founded on Catholic social teaching.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE1d - develops attitudes and values founded on Catholic social teaching and acts to promote social responsibility, human solidarity, and the common good;

CGE2b - reads, understands, and uses written materials effectively;

CGE7e - witnesses Catholic social teaching by promoting equality, democracy, and solidarity for a just, peaceful, and compassionate society;

CGE7f - respects, and affirms the diversity and interdependence of the world’s peoples and cultures.

Strand(s):  The Canadian Fashion Industry, Research and Inquiry Skills

Overall Expectations

CFV.01 - demonstrate an understanding of the importance of the fashion industry in Canada and the interrelationship of the primary and secondary fashion markets;

CFV.03 - describe the impact of international factors on the Canadian fashion industry;

ISV.02 - correctly use terminology associated with the fashion industry.

Specific Expectations

CF1.02 - analyse the influence of imports on the Canadian garment and accessories industries;

CF3.03 - summarize the results of an investigation into the international factors that affect the Canadian apparel industry (e.g., government regulations, availability of materials and labour, child and worker exploitation and related issues, economic cycles, size of the Canadian and other markets);

IS2.02 - organize and interpret information gathered from reliable sources, and summarize main points.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should:

·         be familiar with mind mapping skills;

·         have a basic knowledge of computer operation and the Internet to complete research.

Planning Notes

The teacher:

·         obtains a large current world map to be posted on bulletin board entitled, “Where Clothing and Accessories are Produced” (T/L S 2);

·         purchases coloured “dot” stickers (T/L S 2);

·         books library/resource centre and computer lab, where available (T/L S 7);

·         reviews school policies for Internet use (T/L S 7).

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Prior to the beginning of this activity, students research the source of their wardrobe and that of their family members and list the countries that produced the clothing and accessories they wear/use
(Appendix 4.3.1 – Where Clothing and Accessories are Produced).

2.   Students post results on world map using a specific coloured dot sticker. Students draw conclusions from the class findings (e.g., student awareness of where clothing and accessories are produced, major clothing and accessory production centres, how much of clothing and accessories are Canadian made versus imported).

3.   As a class, students complete a mind map to list and discuss, “How imports influence the Canadian garment and accessories industry” (e.g., availability of jobs, location of job markets, cost and quality of Canadian produced items, secondary fashion market).

4.   The teacher distributes a handout, which lists various international factors that affect the Canadian apparel industry (Appendix 4.3.2 – International factors that affect the Canadian apparel industry). This list should include:

·         government regulations;

·         availability of materials and labour;

·         sweat shops, meeting first world needs at the expense of those at the poverty level and other related issues;

·         Haute Couture (e.g., knockoffs, style setters)

·         economic cycles

·         size of the Canadian and other markets

·         political environment at home

·         political environment abroad

5.   As a class, students suggest key questions that could be used to investigate each factor. Students record responses on the handout (Appendix 4.3.2 – International factors that affect the Canadian apparel industry).

Note: The teacher may add to this list or break this list into smaller more manageable parts for investigation.

6.   In small groups, students pick and investigate one of the international factors affecting the Canadian apparel industry. (T/L S 4) In their investigation, students note impacts these factors have towards promoting equality and social responsibility.

7.   Some time is allotted to use computer/resource lab, if available. The teacher reviews policies on acceptable use of computers and the Internet. Students are encouraged to work outside of class time.

8.   Groups share and discuss their results.

9.   Using the summarizing points from the discussion, each student writes an editorial for the local or school newspaper titled, “How do we, as responsible Christian consumers, influence the Canadian and international garment industry if we choose to purchase only Canadian-made products?” Students hand in the editorial for evaluation and possible publication.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Task

Tool

Purpose

Achievement Chart Categories

Write an editorial to the local or school newspaper (T/L S 9)

Rating Scale

Summative

Thinking/Inquiry
Knowledge/Understanding
Application
Communication

Accommodations

·         Pair stronger students with those who need support.

·         Modification of handout, where required.

·         Oral or tape-recorded presentation of editorial.

·         Allow extra time to complete the editorial, where required.

·         As an alternative some students could, write an editorial titled, “Why should I purchase clothing made in Canada?”

·         For enrichment, students investigate what local, provincial and federal governments are doing to promote the purchasing of Canadian made products.

Resources

Human Resource

Maquila Solidarity Network, Toronto, Ontario.

Texts

Campaigner. Oxfam, Fall 2000.

Davis Burns, Leslie and Nancy Bryant. The Business of Fashion: Designing, Manufacturing and Marketing. New York: Fairchild Publications, 1997. ISBN 1-56367-073-9

Dickerson, Kitty. Textiles and Apparel in the International Economy, 3rd ed. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 1999. ISBN 0-13-647280-X

Glock, Ruth and Grace Kinz. Apparel Manufacturing: Sewn Product Analysis, 3rd ed. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2000. ISBN 1-13-084663-5

Hausman, Sue. Sew Fast, Faster, Fastest. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press, Inc., 1998.
ISBN 0-87596-793-0

Humphries, Mary. Fabric Reference, 2nd ed. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 2000. ISBN 0-13-010575-9

Parks, Carol. Great Sewing Accessories – To Sew. New York: Sterling Publishing Co. Inc., 1997.
ISBN 0-8069-9566-1

Pennock, Michael. Catholic Social Teaching and Living Justice. Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 2000. ISBN 0-87793-698-6

Stop Sweatshops: An Education Action Kit. Toronto: Maquila Solidarity Network, Spring 2000.
ISBN 0-07-061744-9

Video

Dannaher, Brenden. Clothing Design and Manufacture: How Clothes are Designed, Manufactured and Sold. Coquitlam, BC: Classroom Video, 1997. 20 min.

Websites

Apparel Industry – http://www.apparelsearch.com

Behind the Label – http://behindthelabel.org (information on history of textile unions, sweatshops, international situation)

Hearts and Minds – http://www.heartsandminds.org/articles/sweat.htm

Maquila Solidarity Network – infor@maquilasolidarity.org

Oxfam Canada – oxfam.ca

The Canadian Apparel Federation – http://www.apparel.ca

 

Activity 4.4:  Fashion for All Needs

Time:  5 hours

Description

Students brainstorm a list of features they would look for in a garment that would satisfy their needs. Using this list, they evaluate garments and/or pictures of garments for various ages and activities to determine those features associated with the age category. They identify psychological and practical needs of clothing for special markets. In pairs, students develop a mini-marketing campaign for a selected item of clothing, which meets customer satisfaction and demonstrates respect and understanding of the nature of today’s contemporary society.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE2b - reads, understands, and uses written materials effectively;

CGE2d - writes and speaks fluently one or both of Canada’s official languages;

CGE7g - respects and understands the history, cultural heritage, and pluralism of today’s contemporary society.

Strand(s):  Fashion and Society, The Canadian Fashion Industry, Design and Construction,
                        Research and Inquiry

Overall Expectations

FSV.03 - identify the need for clothing for special markets;

CFV.02 - evaluate the impact of consumer satisfaction on the Canadian fashion industry;

DCV.01 - demonstrate an understanding of the stages of apparel production and marketing;

ISV.01 - use appropriate social science research methods in a supervised, self-directed study of topics related to fashion and the fashion industry;

ISV.02 - correctly use terminology associated with the fashion industry.

Specific Expectations

FS3.01 - identify the psychological and practical needs for clothing for special markets (e.g., uniforms, clothing in non-standard sizes, clothing for people with physical disabilities, maternity wear, clothing for children and the elderly, protective clothing for dangerous conditions and climatic extremes, purpose-designed clothing for the sports, leisure, and entertainment industries);

CF2.02 - analyse the factors that contribute to consumer satisfaction with apparel (e.g., brand names, design features, fabric details, supportive materials, finishing details, ease of care) for people of various ages, engaged in a variety of activities;

DC1.04 - demonstrate an understanding of the skills required in fashion marketing (e.g., media or creative display skills) and how they are used;

IS1.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the research methods used in the study of fashion and the fashion industry (e.g., personal observation, interview);

IS1.03 - locate and access primary sources (e.g., individual designers, media fashion forecasters) and secondary sources (e.g., magazine articles, Internet articles, TV programs) of information relating to fashion and the fashion industry;

IS2.01 - formulate appropriate research questions to frame their inquiries;

IS2.02 - organize and interpret information gathered from reliable sources, and summarize main points;

IS2.04 - evaluate the validity and reliability of information collected through research;

IS2.05 - differentiate between research evidence and opinion.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should:

·         be able to brainstorm;

·         have collaborative/cooperative group skills;

·         have effective listening and note-taking skills;

·         have effective verbal skills.

Planning Notes

The teacher:

·         assembles a wide variety of garments and/or pictures of garments (T/L S 4);

·         prepares notes (T/L S 6);

·         reminds students to critically examine information from the Internet and to use it ethically
(T/L S 10).

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Students brainstorm and discuss features they look for when selecting apparel to meet their satisfaction (e.g., brand name, fabric, colour, style). Responses are recorded on the board.

2.   The teacher directs class discussion:

·         to evaluate the importance/necessity of these features when selecting apparel;

·         to put these features into perspective (e.g., teenagers concern with latest label);

·         to recognize those features that are in keeping with Christian values.

3.   Students divide into groups based on age categories they will consider (e.g., preschool children, school-age children, adolescents, adults, seniors).

4.   Each group:

·         brainstorms a list of possible activities associated with the age category and determine clothing suitable for the activity;

·         is given garments and/or pictures of garments;

·         evaluates the garments and/or pictures of garments using the responses recorded on the board (T/L S 1) to determine features associated with customer satisfaction for the age category.

5.   Groups share and discuss their findings.

6.   Students develop a note based on the discussion.

7.   The teacher defines psychological needs for clothing and practical needs for clothing. Students record information.

8.   In pairs, students select a special clothing market (e.g., uniforms, clothing in non-standard sizes, clothing for people with physical disabilities, maternity wear, clothing for children and the elderly, protective clothing for dangerous conditions and climatic extremes, purpose-designed clothing for the sports, leisure, and entertainment industries) and brainstorm the psychological and practical needs of that clothing market. Pairs record their decisions on chart paper.

9.   Pairs share and discuss their results with the class.

10.  Working in their same pair grouping, students:

·         select clothing for the special market (T/L S 8);

·         develop a mini-marketing campaign to promote the sale of the selected clothing (the campaign should inform the consumer as to how it meets their needs). The campaign can be in one of the following formats: pamphlet, video commercial, audio commercial, poster, display;

·         are encouraged to make use of consumer reports and the Internet to develop a test marketing survey for their selected clothing;

·         complete a one- to two-page written essay detailing how this marketing campaign encourages the sale of the clothing while demonstrating respect and understanding of the consumer;

·         present their marketing campaign to the class;

·         submit their marketing campaign and essay for teacher evaluation.

Note: This activity could be completed in conjunction with a marketing class in the school if course scheduling permits.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Task

Tool

Purpose

Achievement Chart Categories

Mini-marketing campaign (T/L S 10)

Anecdotal comments

Summative

Thinking/Inquiry
Knowledge/Understanding
Communication
Application

Note: The tasks in this activity are done in pairs. Teachers must be able to evaluate individual achievement. Recommend that some tasks (e.g., essay) be done on individual basis.

Accommodations

·         Modified notes are copied or a handout is given, where required.

·         Allow extra time to complete assignment, where required.

·         For students who require assistance, modify assignment by dividing a Bristol board into sections. Label each section with specific special markets. Students cut out pictures from magazines, catalogues, etc, that match each special market category on their Bristol board.

·         For enrichment, students develop a wardrobe for an individual with a special need (e.g., paraplegic, quadriplegic, amputation, someone with MS, individual who has suffered a stroke, sight impairment).

Resources

Catalogue/Flyers

Sears catalogue

Department store flyers – fashion section

Texts

Catechism of the Catholic Church. Ottawa, Ontario: Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, 1994. ISBN 0-88997-281-8

Davis Burns, Leslie and Nancy Bryant. The Business of Fashion: Designing, Manufacturing and Marketing. New York: Fairchild Publications, 1997. ISBN 1-56367-073-9

Dickerson, Kitty. Textiles and Apparel in the International Economy, 3rd ed. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 1999. ISBN 0-13-647280-X

Glock, Ruth and Grace Kinz. Apparel Manufacturing: Sewn Product Analysis, 3rd ed. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2000. ISBN 1-13-084663-5

Hausman, Sue. Sew Fast, Faster, Fastest. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press, Inc., 1998.
ISBN 0-87596-793-0

Humphries, Mary. Fabric Reference, 2nd ed. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 2000. ISBN 0-13-010575-9

Layton, J., ed. The Science of Clothing Comfort. Manchester, U.K.: Textile Institute, 2001.
ISBN 0-13-494592-1

Parks, Carol. Great Sewing Accessories – To Sew. New York: Sterling Publishing Co. Inc., 1997.
ISBN 0-8069-9566-1

Video

Meridian Education Corporation. Trends in apparel Marketing. Family and Consumer Sciences Catalog, 2001. #EOU-10792 (17 minutes)

Activity 4.5:  Exploring a Career in Fashion

Time:  5 hours

Description

There are many opportunities for careers and occupations in the fashion industry or related to the fashion industry (e.g., fashion illustrator, designer, seamstress/tailor, wardrobe coordinator, cosmetology, and photography). Each career or occupation in the fashion industry requires some form of education and training. Using the Internet and available resources, students investigate various careers and occupations, and the required education and training. They identify community-based resources related to the job search. As a class, they investigate, share, and discuss entrepreneurial opportunities in their community, realizing that they offer an individual the chance to find meaning, dignity, and fulfillment in work that contributes to the common good. Students, also, identify the protection available to them against occupational and health hazards.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE5d - finds meaning, dignity, fulfilment, and vocation in work that contributes to the common good.

Strand(s):  The Canadian Fashion Industry, Research and Inquiry

Overall Expectations

CFV.04 - identify and describe occupations in the fashion industry;

ISV.01 - use appropriate social science research methods in a supervised, self-directed study of topics related to fashion and the fashion industry.

Specific Expectations

CF4.01 - identify fashion-related occupations, both entry-level and those requiring postsecondary education (e.g., fashion illustrator, designer, buyer, pattern maker, wardrobe coordinator, stylist) and satellite opportunities that are seen as fashion-related (e.g., cosmetology, promotion, photography);

CF4.02 - identify community-based resources related to the job-search and educational requirements for careers in the fashion industry;

CF4.03 - describe postsecondary programs for careers in fashion arts and programs that support occupational aspirations related to the fashion field;

CF4.04 - describe entrepreneurial opportunities in the fashion industry in terms of social, technological, political, and economic changes with a focus on community needs, financial resources, and demographic patterns;

CF4.05 - identify the protection available against occupational and health hazards in fashion-related occupations;

IS1.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the research methods used in the study of fashion and the fashion industry (e.g., personal observation, interview);

IS2.02 - organize and interpret information gathered from reliable sources and summarize main points;

IS2.03 - interpret charts, graphs, and statistical data presented in the literature and produce graphs and charts to organize information gathered through quantitative research;

IS2.04 - evaluate the validity and reliability of information collected through research;

IS2.05 - differentiate between research evidence and opinion.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should:

·         have collaborative/cooperative group skills;

·         have a basic knowledge of computer operations and Internet to research;

·         have critical thinking skills to interpret statistical data;

·         have effective verbal skills to participate in discussion/group work;

·         have writing skills to complete written paper and for note-taking;

·         have listening and questioning skills to gather information from a guest speaker.

Planning Notes

The teacher:

·         prepares a note on occupations and careers in the fashion industry (T/L S 2, S 5);

·         reserves time in the computer/resource lab, where available (T/L S 3, S 6);

·         arranges time for teacher-group conferencing (T/L S 7);

·         invites a guest speaker (T/L S 10);

·         develops/modifies/copies work sheets and evaluation sheets (T/L S 3, S 7, S 8, S 11);

·         reminds students to critically examine information from the Internet and to use it ethically
(T/L S 3, S 6).

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Students brainstorm various careers/occupations in the fashion industry and related to the fashion industry. Responses are recorded on a board/overhead/large poster paper for later use.

2.   The teacher conducts a brief Socratic lesson on the forms of education and training used to develop skills for occupations and careers in the fashion industry and those seen as fashion related. This includes entry-level education, certification, on-the-job training, and formal education (college or university). Students record information.

3.   The class is divided into three groups. Each group is assigned one of the forms of education and training on the handout Careers, Education, and Training (Appendix 4.5.1). Using the Internet and available resource materials, each group member investigates one career or occupation and records the information on the handout (listed responses from brainstorming may be used). Groups share and discuss findings.

4.   Students identify community-based resources related to the job search (e.g., newspaper, human resources, unemployment centres).

5.   The teacher conducts a Socratic lesson on entrepreneurial opportunities in the fashion industry in terms of:

·         social changes – e.g., personal entertainment, leisure activities, family entertainment, needs of the community, related demographic patterns;

·         technological changes – e.g., fibres/fabrics, means of production (construction, machinery);

·         political changes – e.g., local, provincial, national, global; presence or absence of encouragement by government to begin one’s own business;

·         economic changes – e.g., financial situation of individuals, families, the community and the country, related demographic.

Students record information.

6.   In small groups, students investigate entrepreneurial opportunities in their own community. This investigation should include:

·         listing of fashion and fashion-related businesses in the community with a brief description of what they offer and how long they have been established in the community;

·         demographics of the community for the past five to 10 years (e.g., population, age of individuals in the population, number of families, types of families) to determine patterns;

·         listing of past fashion and fashion-related businesses in the community with a brief description of what they offered, how long they were in the community, and why they closed or moved;

·         needs of the community (e.g., interests, occupations, entertainment, leisure activities, types of families, religious affiliation of individuals, unemployment rate);

·         available financial resources (e.g., banks, incentives by the municipality to begin a business, family, friends);

·         conclusion (e.g., What entrepreneurial opportunities exist in the community? Reasons to support their conclusion);

·         written report of the groups findings prepared individually and conclusion for teacher evaluation.

Note: Where fashion and fashion-related businesses may not exist in a community, it is suggested that students could investigate the feasibility of opening a fashion or fashion-related business using most of the criteria outlined above plus any other criteria the teacher feels is necessary to complete the activity.

Note: Due to time constraints, it is suggested that:

·         each group takes one aspect of the investigation to research;

·         groups are given time to work outside of the class to gather information;

·         brief class time is allotted for groups to conference within their group;

·         each group produces a one- to two-page report to be distributed to other groups in the class to be used in the development of their conclusion;

·         Internet and resource materials are made available for students to use.

7.   Teacher-group conferencing occurs to assess progress. The teacher and group complete Conference Assessment Chart (Appendix 4.5.2).

8.   Groups present their conclusion(s) to the class. Students each submit a written report for teacher evaluation.

9.   As a class, students discuss the impact an entrepreneurial opportunity has on an individual finding meaning, dignity, and fulfilment in work.

10.  The teacher invites a guest speaker(s) from a health and safety organization to address the issue of occupational and health hazards in fashion-related occupations and the available protection.

11.  Students hand in for teacher evaluation (anecdotal comments).

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Assessment Strategies

Tools

Purpose

Achievement Chart Categories

Presentation of career, education and training findings to class (T/L S 3)

Participation Checklist

Formative

Knowledge/Understanding
Communication

Research report of entrepreneurial opportunities in community (T/L S 7)

Conference Rating Scale

Formative

Knowledge/Understanding
Thinking/Inquiry
Communication

Written report on entrepreneurial opportunities in community (T/L S 8)

Rubric

Summative

Application

Accommodations

·         Allow extra time to complete assignment, where required.

·         For enrichment, students develop a brochure for use in guidance or student services, detailing a career or occupation in the fashion industry (e.g., description, responsibilities, education and training, benefits of the career/occupation, career path).

Resources

Human Resources

Student Services Department - computer programs to assist with career exploration and investigation of College and University programs.

Books

And Finally I Did Get a Job. Ontario: Ministry of Education and Training. Queen’s Printer for Ontario, 1998.

Costa, John Dalla. The Ethical Imperative Why Moral Leadership is Good Business. Toronto: Harper Collins, 1998. ISBN 0-00-638577-X

Jones, Laurie Beth. The Path Creating Your Mission Statement for Work and for Life. New York: Hyperion, 1996. ISBN 0-7868-8241-7

Misener, J. and S. Butler. Exploring Your Horizons. Toronto: McGraw-Hill Ryerson Limited, 1998. ISBN 0-0755-2864-9

The Edge. Ontario: Ministry of Education and Training. Queen’s Printer for Ontario, 1998.

St. John Ambulance. First on the Scene: The Complete Guide to First Aid and CPR. Ottawa, Canada: Priory of Canada, 1998. ISBN 0-929006-89-5

CD-ROM

Career Cruising. Licensed by the Ministry of Education from Anaca Technologies.

Organizations

Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)

Industrial Accident Prevention Association (IAPA)

Ontario Ministry of Labour (MOL)

Construction Safety Association of Ontario (CSAO)

Ontario Service Safety Alliance (OSSA)

Websites

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety – www.CCOHS.ca
Promoting safe and healthy work environments

Career Explorer – www.cdn.cx.bridges.com/explorer/student.htm
This web site has self-assessments, interest inventories, a résumé writing template, and career and postsecondary information.

Career Gateway – www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/career/
This site provides a starting point for the exploration of many online career and employment-related options. It provides links to many career-based sites.

Health Canada – www.hc-sc.gc.ca/english/food.htm
Health Canada is the federal department responsible for helping the people of Canada maintain and improve their health.

Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) – www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/
This is the national site and home page. The home page has many options as well as links to related sites.

Job Find 2000 - Youth employment information – www.jobfind2000.com

MazeMaster (Human Resources Development Canada) This site offers a wide variety of links to employment opportunities. – www.mazemaster.com

Ontario Ministry of Labour – www.gov.on.ca/lab/main.htm
Information on OCHS legislation, health and safety guidelines, preventing injury

St. John’s Ambulance Canada – www.sja.ca/english/content/new.html
First aid information, calendar of courses offered

The Edge – www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/career-carriere/edge/home.shtml
Online youth magazine with career information. Job Trek game is a good source for choosing a career. Excellent links to youth-related career sites.

TV Ontario (uChoose Program) – www.uchoose.tvo.org – http://www2.tvo.org/uchoose/eduprog/
A site to help choose the right college or university program. Complete listing of colleges and universities with links to related sites. Program, admission, and housing information.

Workers Health and Safety Centre – www.whsc.on.ca
Provides information on occupational health and safety legislation and issues

Young Canada Works - Youth employment information –www.pch.gc.ca

Youth Resource Network of Canada - Youth employment information
– www.youth.gc.ca/jobopps/summer_e.shtml

 

Activity 4.6:  Forecasting Canadian Fashion Trends

Time:  4 hours

Description

Students list and discuss various influences on the Canadian fashion industry to determine what/who has the most influence and why. They identify strategies and services associated with forecasting fashion trends. As fashion forecasters, they produce bulletin boards comparing their own projections with those of professional forecasting services to determine if the consumer directs what is in fashion. Their decision is based on consumer (student body) feedback. Bulletin boards reflect their ideas clearly, honestly, and with sensitivity to others.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE2b - reads, understands, and uses written materials effectively;

CGE2c - presents information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others.

Strand(s):  The Canadian Fashion Industry, Research and Inquiry Skills

Overall Expectations

CFV.02 - evaluate the impact of consumer satisfaction on the Canadian fashion industry;

ISV.04 - communicate effectively through written and audio-visual presentations using accepted social science research format;

ISV.05 - demonstrate effective collaborative group skills.

Specific Expectations

CF2.01 - identify the theories of fashion adaptation (e.g., “trickle down,” “trickle across,” “bottom-up”);

CF2.03 - explain the relationship between individual purchases and the influential role of the consumer in the Canadian fashion industry;

CF2.04 - identify trends in the Canadian fashion industry and explain the strategies and services (e.g., professional forecasting, colour forecasting) used for forecasting fashion trends;

IS3.02 - effectively communicate the results of their inquiries, using a variety of methods and forms (e.g., graphs, charts, diagrams, oral presentations, written reports, newspaper-style articles, videos).

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should:

·         have collaborative/cooperative group skills;

·         have effective verbal skills to participate in discussion/group work.

Planning Notes

The teacher:

·         asks students to bring in items that reflect current fashion trends: personal items of clothing or accessories, music videos, photographs of street scenes, magazines, etc., for discussion (T/L S 1);

·         provides bulletin board materials (e.g., poster paper, markers, access to digital camera, computer) (T/L S 5);

·         locates bulletin board space in the school (T/L S 5).

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Students are asked to bring in items that reflect current fashion trends: a personal item of clothing or accessories, music video, photographs of street scenes, magazines, etc., for discussion.

2.   The class brainstorms “what influences the Canadian fashion industry (e.g., economy, politics, fashion forecasters, designers, fashion of the past, movies, celebrities, consumer, social class)?” The class discusses how much influence each has and which might have the most influence and why.

3.   The teacher conducts a Socratic lesson on the strategies and services used for forecasting fashion trends (e.g., professional forecasting, colour forecasting) and theories of fashion adaptation (e.g., “trickle down,” “trickle across,” “bottom-up”). Students record information.

4.   Using items brought in by students the teacher directs discussion on current fashion trends (locally, nationally, internationally) to include what’s hot, what’s not, what’s the source, how popular is it, what influences it.

5.   The class is broken into groups to predict the next hot future trend in fashion. These trends in fashion are developed from what fashion forecasters are predicting will be the next hot fashion trends (based on strategies and services, and used for fashion forecasting) and the application of theories of fashion adaptation to the fashion forecasters predictions. Each suggested idea should include two or three designs with a brief description of the design. Students are encouraged to use information learned in the previous units. These designs and descriptions are arranged on display boards.

6.   Students receive feedback by placing display boards in a location accessible to the school and have the consumer (student body) vote on the group of designs to be the next hot future trend in fashion.

7.   Each group presents their findings clearly and with sensitivity to others. Students are encouraged to ask questions that challenge other groups to defend choices and state sources of information (e.g., what was preferred and why). Based on information presented, the class determines what will be the next hot future trend in fashion.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Task

Tool

Purpose

Achievement Chart Categories

Brainstorm and discussion of what influences the Canadian fashion industry (T/L S 2)

Participation checklist

Diagnostic
Formative

Knowledge/Understanding
Thinking/Inquiry
Communication

Develop display board forecasting the next hot trend in fashion (T/L S 5)

Student body vote
Participation checklist

Summative

Application
Communication

Accommodations

·         Peer helper for those students who required extra help.

·         Organize groups based on strengths and needs of students.

·         For special needs students, collect pictures of fashion apparel and accessories that are currently in fashion. Create a display on Bristol board.

·         For enrichment, students construct one of the designs in their forecast for display.

Resources

Texts

Stone, Elaine. Fashion Merchandising: An Introduction. U.S.A.: McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1990.
ISBN 0-07-061744-9

Brannon, Evelyn L. Fashion Forecasting. NY: Fairchild Publications, Inc., 2000. ISBN 1-563672065

Magazines

Teen Magazine

Young and Modern

Chatelaine Magazine

Associations

Fashion Design Council of Canada, 75 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, ON M5V 1P4

The Textile Federation of Canada, 1 rue Pacifique, Ste. Anne-de-Bellvue, QC H9X 1C5

Websites

Chatelaine Magazine – http://www.chatelaine.com

www.factsonfile.com

http://learningcommons.senecacollege.ca/learningcommons/

www.firstview.com/home.html

www.worldmedia.fr/fashion/

http://www.fashionwindows.com/

www.infomat.com/information/trends/index.html

Promostyl – http://www.promostyle.com/


Appendix 4.1.1

Template for “Factors that determine the location of major fashion markets”

 

Instructions: Use the following template to explain the factors involved in the location of the fashion market in a specific city.

 

Factors

Considerations

City

Historical

Historical background of the city relevant to fashion (e.g., raw material sources, military base, trade routes, location of local governments); tradition; famous designer(s) who lived in the city

 

Economic

Close to source of cheap labour; easy access to United States fashion markets; cheap land for warehouse; good sources of fabrics and notions; central area for transportation and shipping of raw resources and finished garments; socio-economic status of residents/consumers; ties to multination fashion conglomerates

 

Geographic

Mode of transportation; shipping access to major fashion consumers; centralized to service smaller towns/communities; population with disposable income to support fashion industry

 

Political

Tax concessions to fashion manufacturers; municipal zoning laws, by-laws; support for fashion education/new designers/small business

 

Social

Socio-economic status of residents; culture; social life of the residents

 


Appendix 4.2.1

About Your Business

 

Name of the business - _________________________________________________________________

Where are you located - ________________________________________________________________

How long has your business been located in the community - ___________________________________

What do you sell? (List a variety of garments and accessories; students circle the appropriate answers)

 

 

Is any of the clothing made in Canada?

_____  Yes; give examples - ______________________________________________________

 

_____  No

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix 4.3.1

“Where Clothing and Accessories are Produced”

 

Instructions: students list the clothing and accessories surveyed in their home and the country where it was made.

 

Clothing/Accessories

Country

Clothing/Accessories

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Appendix 4.3.2

International Factors that Affect the Canadian Apparel Industry

Factors

Key Questions
(list questions to be used
to investigate the factor)

Results (summary)

Government regulations

 

 

E.g., Which government?
How regulation is related to the industry? How it affects the industry?

 

Availability of materials and labour

 

 

 

Sweat shops, meeting developed-world needs at the expense of those at the poverty level and other related issues

 

 

Economic cycles

 

 

 

Haute Couture (knockoffs, style setters)

 

 

 

Size of the Canadian and other markets

 

 

 

Political environment at home

 

 

Political environment abroad

 

 

 

Appendix 4.5.1

Occupation Opportunities in the Fashion Industry

 

Occupations

Specific
Education and Training

Entry-Level

1.
2.
3.

1.
2.
3.

Post-Secondary

1.
2.
3.

1.
2.
3.

Satellite Opportunities

1.
2.
3.

1.
2.
3.


Appendix 4.5.2

Conference Assessment Chart

 

Instructions:  The teacher and the group evaluate the conference held by them by putting a check mark next to the statement that best describes the group’s accomplishments. The teacher and the group note the Level and record the numbers in the Total column. Note: This assessment chart is intended for formative assessment purposes.

 

Names of Group Members ______________________________________________________________

 

Date of Conference ________________

 

Criteria

Level

Total

Gathering of Information

_____  information is focused, a variety of good quality resources explored

_____  a considerable amount of research completed but lacks focus

_____  fair effort, insufficient research

_____  limited effort, limited research

 

4

3

2

1

 

Group Progress Report

_____  indicates group is well organized with equal distribution of work

_____  indicates group is somewhat organized with equal distribution of work

_____  indicates group is less than organized with some distribution of work

_____  indicates limited group organization with little distribution of work

 

4

3

2

1

 

Conference

_____  student-directed, focused

_____  somewhat student-directed, evidence of research and planning but group       does not communicate their needs to the teacher

_____  mostly teacher-directed, some notes but little evidence of planning

_____  teacher-directed, limited group focus

 

4

3

2

1

 

Final Total

 

 

 

 

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