Innovation I: Creativity Through Self Expression

Grades 6-8     

Semester Course

Understanding that creativity is often the forerunner to innovation, this course creates opportunities for students to develop their own personal brand through reflection and self-evaluation. Students will work in teams to bring their experiences outside of this classroom (music, dance, theater, visual arts, chorus, creative writing, robotics, physical education, technology, volunteerism) to bring voice to current issues that are relevant in their communities.

In "Startup Branding," students will learn how to turn ideas into brands, with a specific focus on the importance of early branding decisions in new ventures and brand design execution with limited resources. The course will include a multi-week assignment in which student teams will design a new brand for a new venture. Course coverage includes brand strategy, brand design, the brand experience, launching the brand, and leading the brand. The course format is a blend of lecture, exercise, cross-team collaboration and idealization sessions, and guest speakers.