Activity can be taught in the classroom or online
Google, Windows, & Mac-friendly!
All documents are editable to meet your classroom needs.
This activity is included in the Marketing Mix - Promotion Unit Plan
Get ready for an engaging, real-world marketing challenge that puts students in the role of brand analysts! In this dynamic activity, students explore how top brands compete using promotions—from flashy social media campaigns to strategic discounts. Through research, analysis, and presentations, students determine which brand delivered the most effective promotional strategy.
Perfect for business, marketing, and digital media classes, this hands-on activity strengthens students' ability to evaluate real campaigns while reinforcing the core principles of branding, persuasion, and promotional strategy.
What's Included:
Editable 3-Part Activity Slide Deck
Printable/Digital Promotional Analysis Worksheet
Teacher Instructions & 90-Minute Pacing Guide
Ready-to-Use Grading Rubric
Optional Extension Ideas (debates, social media challenge, redesign task)
Project Overview:
Choose the Brands: Students pick two competing brands from the same industry (e.g., Nike vs. Adidas).
Research Promotions: They identify two promotions per brand, evaluate effectiveness, and analyze how the strategy aligns with the brand's identity.
Compare & Present: Students create a side-by-side presentation defending which brand executed the stronger promotional campaign.
Class Vote: Peers vote for the most persuasive presentation and reflect on what made the winning strategy successful.
Learning Objectives:
Identify and analyze various promotional techniques used in the marketplace
Assess how promotions attract consumers and reinforce brand identity
Develop persuasive arguments using evidence from real marketing campaigns
Practice research, presentation, and critical thinking skills
Perfect For:
Business and Marketing Courses (Grades 6–12)
CTE Pathways & Entrepreneurship Units
Brand Strategy, Promotion, or Advertising Lessons
1-2 Day Marketing Projects or Sub Plans
Why Teachers Love It:
Real-World Application: Students engage with relevant brand campaigns and modern promotional tactics
Flexible Format: Works for individual or group work, in-person or digital classrooms
No Prep Needed: Includes everything—slides, worksheets, rubrics, and instructions
Student Engagement: Combines competition, creativity, and strategic thinking for a fun yet academic experience
Empower your students to think like brand strategists and turn your classroom into a marketing war room with the Battle of the Brands showdown!