Target Selection and Task Analysis:

In what contexts does the student need to display this skill, now and in the future?

Planning and writing a resume is only the initial portion of this process.  As the individual gains professional experience, education, certifications, and skills, the resume will require periodic review and updating.  As you will teach within the context of this topic, further revisions will also be necessary to adapt the resume per future job application.  In addition, a well-organized and accessible resume can serve as a fantastic tool to help the individual keep up with his own work history and professional development, helping to avoid overlooking or forgetting newly-developed qualities. 

How can you break this skill down?
The resume provides an employer with substantial information to seriously consider the applicant for hire.  It is the key to being offered an interview, so it must be self-promotional, relevant, professional, brief, and honestly reflect the applicant’s experiences.  Developing the resume requires a planned approach, so provided is a suggested step-by-step breakdown of this topic:

1. Identify the parts of the resume
   a. Required:
        i. Name and Contact Information
        ii. Educational History
        iii. Work History (volunteer, internship, shadowing experiences if no paid employment)
   b. Optional:
        i. Objectives
        ii. Honors/Rewards
        iii. Volunteer Service
        iv. Professional Organizations or Clubs
        v. Hobbies and Interests
        vi. References
2. Select the type of resume
   a. Chronological: This lists work experience from most recent to oldest.
   b. Functional: Work and educational experiences are categorized into topics (e.g. Clerical; Audio and Visual Technology). This type is great if there are gaps in the individual’s work history or if he has limited experience.
3. Collect and organize the required information
   a. Name and contact information, educational and work histories
4. Collect, organize, and add any optional information
   b. Objectives, honors and rewards, volunteer services, etc.
5. Identify the rules of developing a resume
   a. Use professional font such as Times New Roman, 12-point.
   b. Print on white paper with black ink.
   c. Make sure the paper has no wrinkles, stains, or tears.
   d. Proofread your resume and ask someone else to proofread it, too.
   e. Do not use first-person language (“I,” “me,” “us,” etc.)
   f. Keep resume limited to 1 page (for adolescents, young adults seeking entry level position).
   g. The information on your resume should be current and accurate.
6. Review and edit the resume for grammatical errors and information accuracy
7. Update resume to adhere to current job application
8. Ask a trusted person to review the resume
9. Save resume electronically
10. Print three copies:  one submitted with cover letter and application, two to be taken to the interview

What sub-skill should you target first for the student to initiate?  Given what the student can do presently, how will you present the task so that the student can perform steps within his capacity while learning a new step?