Cosmetology Salon Operations Lesson Plan (High School)

Grade Band: High School (9–12)
Subject Area: Technology

This free cosmetology lesson introduces students to how salons actually function as businesses. Students study salon layouts, workflow, and client movement, then design and present their own professional salon operation plan.

Overview

Students explore how salon organization affects service quality, safety, and efficiency. They compare different salon layouts, evaluate workstation types, and develop a practical plan for operating a salon. The lesson blends career skills, workplace communication, and digital presentation skills.

Learning Goals

• Identify common salon layout styles
• Understand workstation types and client flow
• Analyze advantages and disadvantages of salon designs
• Plan an efficient salon operation
• Create and present a professional visual presentation

Materials

• Printed salon floor plan diagrams
• Graph paper
• Pencils and colored markers
• Access to computers or tablets
• Presentation software
• Camera or mobile device for photos (optional)

Preparation

• Prepare sample salon layout diagrams
• Arrange student groups of 2–3
• Provide examples of professional presentation slides
• Set up computer access for design and presentations

Teaching Procedure

Each session fits a standard class period of 45–50 minutes. Final presentations occur during the last session.

Session 1 – Understanding Salon Layouts

1. The teacher introduces the idea that salon success depends on efficient movement of clients and stylists. Students examine three different salon layout diagrams.
2. Activity: The teacher distributes floor plan handouts and asks students to trace the path a client would take from entry to exit. Materials: printed layouts and pencils. Students mark the path and demonstrate understanding by identifying waiting areas, styling stations, and checkout points.
3. Students list advantages and disadvantages of each layout in pairs.
4. Students share findings and the class compiles a comparison chart.

Session 2 – Workstations and Workflow

1. The teacher explains workstation types and how equipment placement affects service time and safety.
2. Activity: Students sketch a workstation setup on graph paper including chair, mirror, tools, and storage. Materials: graph paper and markers. Students label equipment and demonstrate understanding by explaining how the stylist moves while working.
3. Students compare designs with a partner and revise based on efficiency.
4. The class discusses how poor layout could slow service or cause hazards.

Session 3 – Observing Real-World Practice

1. The teacher shows images or short videos of working salons.
2. Activity: Students complete an observation checklist identifying reception area, washing stations, styling area, and product displays. Materials: printed checklist and images. Students record observations and demonstrate understanding by explaining how each area supports the client experience.
3. Groups decide which layout style they believe works best and justify their choice in writing.
4. Students begin planning their own salon concept.

Session 4 – Designing the Salon Plan

1. The teacher explains expectations for a professional presentation.
2. Activity: Students create a salon concept including name, services offered, layout, and target clients. Materials: computers and design notes. Students produce a slide outline and demonstrate understanding by organizing ideas into logical order.
3. Students sketch their salon floor plan and convert it into digital slides.
4. The teacher conferences with each group and provides feedback.

Session 5 – Presentation and Evaluation

1. Students finalize their presentations.
2. Activity: Each group presents their salon operation plan to the class using visual slides. Materials: presentation software and projector. Students explain layout decisions and demonstrate understanding by answering audience questions.
3. Classmates provide constructive feedback using a checklist.
4. The teacher evaluates based on clarity, practicality, and workflow logic.

Assessment

• Completed salon layout plan
• Participation in design discussions
• Accuracy of workflow explanation
• Quality of final presentation

Differentiation

• Provide template floor plans for students needing structure
• Allow oral explanation instead of written justification
• Challenge advanced students to include staffing schedules and service timing

Extension Ideas

• Create a service menu and pricing list
• Design a salon logo
• Write a short business plan describing target customers