What does a good lesson plan look like?

Comparing: a good vs bad lesson plan

A good lesson plan A bad lesson plan
Has a clear objective stated at the beginning to keep the learning activities focused

 

Outlines learning activities in a thoughtful flow

Is easy to scan and read for easy reference during class, using headings, color, etc.

 

Pairs each activity with a time allocation to keep the class on pace

 

Uses a variety of activities to support the lesson objective and keep students engaged

Anchors learning in relevant, real-life ways that students experience, like current events or topics of particular interest

Includes a plan for assessment to measure progress toward the lesson objective

Provides space for self-reflection so teachers can make continuous improvements

Is planned around a topic only, without student learning objectives in mind

 

Is a laundry list of activities in no particular order

 

Is a collection of paragraphs or bullet points, without visual organization

 

Lists activities without indicating how long each will take

 

Uses just one or two activities to deliver the lesson, or uses activities that aren’t well suited to the material

 

Doesn’t consider the broader context around learning and its connection to students’ everyday experiences

 

Lacks a method to check in on student learning in a measurable way

 

Is a one-and-done plan, without reflection of what worked well and what didn’t

 

 

 

 

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