VentureLab is your go-to partner for embedding entrepreneurial learning into any classroom or after-school program.
Through our educator training and comprehensive resource library, we empower educators to teach VentureLab Mindsets, including creativity, adaptability, collaboration, empathy, risk-taking, and a growth mindset. (See the full list here.)
These mindsets are part of our ESTEAM® framework (Entrepreneurship, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math).
Try this no-cost activity from our resource library to teach creativity and curiosity while fueling a lifelong entrepreneurial spirit!
Mooz Diner Activity
Focus
Creativity Mindset & ESTEAM® Integration
On Planet Mooz, aspiring entrepreneurs must design a diner menu for alien customers whose tastes defy Earthly norms. This hands-on challenge pushes students to apply Creative Thinking, test hypotheses, and prototype bold ideas—just like real ESTEAM® innovators.
Materials
- “Letter from Planet Mooz” (download below)
- Blank Menu Template (download below)
- Construction paper or cardstock, scissors, glue/tape, markers, crayons
- Optional 3D supplies: clay, cardboard tubes, popsicle sticks, recycled containers
Preparation
- Familiarize yourself with the full activity and handouts.
- Print one “Letter from Planet Mooz” and menu template per group. Folding menus in half creates a double-sided booklet.
- Gather art supplies and any 3D prototyping materials.
- Plan grouping strategies to foster Collaboration and Adaptability (see our grouping ideas resource).
Instructions
- Launch the Mission
Announce an urgent transmission from Planet Mooz. Read the letter dramatically to spark excitement and frame the entrepreneurial challenge. - Define the Entrepreneurial Brief
Explain that teams must design and name a diner that caters exclusively to Moozians—aliens whose dietary needs demand radical innovation. Emphasize the importance of Risk-Taking: no Earth-based dishes are allowed. - ESTEAM® Connection
Encourage students to consider how Science (nutrition), Technology (presentation), Engineering (structure), Arts (design), and Math (pricing) all intersect in crafting a viable menu. - Set Requirements
Each menu must feature at least 8 unique items:
2 Drinks
2 Starters
2 Main Courses
2 Desserts - Teams assign creative names, prices, and sketches or 3D prototypes.
- Brainstorm & Sketch (15 minutes)
Distribute the blank templates. Circulate to coach on Creativity, Growth Mindset, and Iteration—key VentureLab Mindsets and Skills. - Prototype & Build (15 minutes)
Transition to building 2D or 3D models of signature dishes. Remind teams that Resilience means embracing “failed” prototypes as learning opportunities. - Pitch & Share
Each group presents their diner concept, showcases prototypes, and reflects on which mindsets they leaned on most. Celebrate inventive solutions and cross-disciplinary thinking.
Post-Activity Discussion
Use these prompts to deepen reflection and cement learning:
- Creativity & Adaptability: How did you team pivot when an idea didn’t work?
- Collaboration: What strategies helped you merge different perspectives?
- Resilience: Which prototype “failure” taught you the most?
- Risk-Taking: Which bold idea were you most nervous to try?
- ESTEAM® Integration: How did Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts, and Math each play a role in your diner design?
Curious how VentureLab can spark entrepreneurial thinking in your classroom or program? Schedule a call with Scott Mann, our Director of Education, and let’s explore what’s possible together.
Sign up for entrepreneurship right to your inbox:
Originally published 2/2/2022. Updated/Reposted 7/02/2025
