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The importance of lesson planning for student success.

Navigate the educational landscape and unlock the secrets to successful teaching with our blog on lesson planning for student success. Explore its significance to teachers and understand why a lesson plan is important in teaching. This comprehensive guide outlines the importance of lesson planning for teachers and provides valuable insights into creating well-structured plans that resonate with curriculum goals. Immerse yourself in strategic lesson planning for a transformative teaching experience that fosters student success and educator growth.

Lesson Planning Is Essential to Teaching

Any experienced teacher will tell you that lesson planning is a big part of the job. Teachers around the world routinely spend as much as half of their working time on non-teaching activities, and lesson planning accounts for much of that time. 1, 2

Lesson planning is how teachers synthesize the curriculum goals with pedagogy and knowledge of their specific teaching context. 3 Ask ten teachers about the benefits of lesson planning, and you might very well get ten unique answers. There are also different opinions about how far ahead a teacher should plan lessons. Some recommend working a week out, while others advocate planning a month ahead. 4, 5

In the end, though, creating successful learning outcomes for students is the goal. Although well-designed lesson plans take time and thought, it's an investment that can provide returns in many ways. Explore the elements to consider when creating lesson plans and what factors teachers can include in planning to assure success for themselves, their classrooms and, most importantly, their students.

The Many Reasons Why Lesson Planning Is Important

Effective lesson planning contributes to successful learning outcomes for students in several ways. A well-designed lesson plan:

• Helps students and teachers understand the goals of an instructional module
• Allows the teacher to translate the curriculum into learning activities
• Aligns the instructional materials with the assessment
• Aligns the assessment with the learning goal
• Helps assure that the needed instructional materials are available
• Enables the teacher to thoughtfully address individual learning needs among students

Effective lesson planning can also contribute to the teacher’s own success and well-being. Teachers teach because they want to support students, and effective lesson planning can contribute to job satisfaction when a lesson is successful or a student does well on an assessment. Having a skillfully-planned lesson can also make the act of teaching more pleasurable by increasing the teacher’s confidence in themselves and letting them focus more on interaction with the students than on what is supposed to happen next. Importantly, good planning can save time by avoiding last-minute efforts to buy supplies or create materials needed for a day in the classroom. Teachers can use that reclaimed time for themselves or other parts of their lives, increasing work-life balance.

The Importance of Lesson Planning to Effective Curriculum Delivery

“Curriculum” is a word with many meanings, depending on the context. At the most abstract level, curriculum theory addresses such different aspects of teaching as what elements are included in the course of study, along with considerations of how it is taught and tested. See “What Are the 8 Types of Curriculum?” for more on curriculum theory.

Some curricula are more detailed and structured than others. 6 Regardless of the level of detail, the importance of lesson planning is that it bridges the curriculum’s intent with the daily teaching and learning in a classroom. At a minimum, lesson planning adds the element of time, breaking the curriculum into units delivered each session. Usually, though, teachers incorporate their training and knowledge of their students into the task, translating a previously developed curriculum into an action plan for their classroom.

The Importance of Lesson Planning to Student Assessment

The lesson plan translates the curriculum into clear daily goals for student learning that include a description of the objective and a way to measure the student’s attainment of it. 7 A few standard measurement methods are tests, homework assignments and group work. One benefit of the lesson plan is fitting the assessment to the particular goal while accounting for your specific situation. Some educational writers argue that teachers should design the evaluation before designing the learning activities.4 Working outward from the central idea of the learning objective allows teachers flexibility in choosing the type of assessment that will best suit their students and the classroom environment.

Why Lesson Planning Is Important for Classroom Management

Building the lesson plan outward from your learning goals also offers much-needed flexibility in adapting instructional delivery and classroom management during uncertain times. Classes that move from onsite to online or hybrid require different delivery methods, requiring adjustments to existing plans. Such situations highlight the importance of lesson planning in keeping the class moving smoothly from task to task regardless of the learning environment. Advance lesson planning also minimizes the need for discipline and allows you to make the most of your time with students.

Better Lesson Planning Creates More Student Success

Student success and good behavior are more likely when your pupils are actively engaged in classwork. A thoroughly planned lesson facilitates that desirable state by considering unique student educational needs. “All successful teachers need to be pupil-focused; in other words, you have to think about how the learning activity you have set up will be experienced by each pupil, and how this experience will generate your intended learning outcomes.” 8

​​Better Lesson Planning Is Important for Teacher Success

Teacher success is predicated on student success. Beyond that, the documents you create as part of the planning process are usually part of your evaluation by school administrators. Therefore, having well-prepared and documented plans is an integral part of your success as a teacher. Your lesson plans also become a repository of your growing knowledge as you continue to teach. The importance of lesson planning in furthering your professional growth is undeniable. Cultivating good habits for preparing and reviewing your lesson plans prepares the ground for your success.

• Retrieved on January 20, 2022, from oecd-ilibrary.org/docserver/5js64kndz1f3-en.pdf?expires=1642704108&id=id&accname=guest&checksum=793A8F13FA53BD6FF0680CA7F2DDD448
• Retrieved on January 20, 2022, from businessinsider.com/teachers-time-spent-after-school-work-2019-10#planning-lessons-can-take-several-hours-a-week-4
• Retrieved on January 20, 2022, from tesol.org/docs/default-source/books/14002_lesson-planning_ch-1
• Retrieved on January 20, 2022, from edutopia.org/blog/9-ways-plan-transformational-lessons-todd-finley
• Retrieved on January 20, 2022, blog.planbook.com/lesson-plan-classroom-management/
• Retrieved on January 20, 2022, from https://www.edglossary.org/curriculum/
• Retrieved on January 20, 2022, from edutopia.org/article/how-universal-design-learning-can-help-lesson-planning-year
• Retrieved on January 20, 2022, from educationblog.oup.com/secondary/english/why-is-planning-so-important-for-effective-teaching

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The latest news and views on education from oxford university press., why is planning so important for effective teaching.

Professor Chris Kyriacou

I have spent more than 30 years teaching about and doing research on what constitutes ‘effective’ teaching. Over the years I have become more and more convinced that the key to being a successful teacher, both in terms of the quality of learning you promote, and in terms of maintaining your own mental health and enthusiasm for the work you do, is to make sure you devote enough time to planning . Of course, we all know that teaching is a complex activity and involves a wide variety of tasks and qualities, but in my dealings with teachers, ranging from novices to experienced, I still come across many teachers who do not devote enough time to planning and haven’t fully realised the massive benefits that good planning offers, and how it can really help them.

How and why is your teaching effective?

As teachers, we know that teaching is, in essence, about helping pupils to learn. Careful thinking about what it is exactly that you want your pupils to learn, and how best to enable your pupils to achieve this through the learning experiences you provide for them, lies at the heart of the planning process. All successful teachers need to be pupil focused; in other words, you have to think about how the learning activity you have set up will be experienced by each pupil, and how this experience will generate your intended learning outcomes. you’ll find that the planning process forces you to make explicit how and why your teaching will be effective for every one of your pupils.

Golden Time

Lesson plans also provide a huge number of important benefits for you. Firstly, a lesson plan helps provide you with thinking time during the lesson. In particular, it enables you to reflect on how the lesson is going whilst it is in progress, and to think about whether and how small adjustments might need to be made, and time to think about how well each pupil’s learning experience is being optimised. Thinking time during a lesson is like gold-dust – it’s the most valuable commodity that a teacher needs to have and is often in short supply. Good planning means that the many decisions that you need to make during a lesson, have already been thought through before the lesson take place. If you’ve planned the learning, and the logistical arrangements for the lesson in advance then you’ll have more time to get on with the business of  assessing pupils’ progress whilst the lesson is going on – and you’ll buy yourself some golden time to deal with the unexpected.

Plans help relieve day to day stress

A second important benefit for you is in terms of stress. For newly qualified teachers, you can go into a lesson confident that you have planned what will be happening, that the materials you need to use have been checked and are to hand, that the correct answers to the questions you pose are readily available to you to refer to, and that the precise qualities and features you expect in a good piece of work will be explicit. The more you can do to build up that confidence at the start if the lesson, based on your planning, the more relaxed you will feel.

Try something new!

Finally, another great benefit of planning is that it enables you to be innovative and try out new approaches and ideas in your teaching. When busy and tired, it’s not surprising that some teachers stick with teaching activities that are tried and tested and which manifestly work successfully. There is nothing wrong with this over the short-term. The time and effort you put into planning your lessons will deliver rich dividends for your pupils in being able to experience lessons that you have homed to perfection. However, time marches on, what and how you teach today will not be what is considered to be good practice in the future. The school curriculum is ever changing (and, of course, the new Ofsted Inspection Framework will be on many teachers’ minds at the moment), be it in terms of the content of the course and lessons, the learning outcomes, the use of technology, the methods of assessment, and working with other staff.

Overhauling your planning can be a daunting challenge if you leave adopting such new approaches for too long. Devoting time to planning has an inbuilt element of reflection involved: how can I improve my teaching? Such reflection can help you stay at the forefront of innovative thinking and practice rather than feeling you are having to catch up with good practice under duress.

Professor Chris Kyriacou is based at the University of York Department of Education, and is the author of “Essential Teaching Skills” , the fifth edition of which was published by Oxford University Press in 2018.

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Importance of Lesson-Planning Essay Examples

Type of paper: Essay

Topic: Time Management , Education , Time , Teaching , Learning , Students , Goals , Planning

Words: 2500

Published: 02/02/2020

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Introduction

A lesson plan is a framework for any lesson that a teacher has to compile before attending a class. The lesson plans are the products of a teacher’s thoughts about their classes including what goals they hope to achieve at the end of their classes and gives the different methods/ways of achieving the goals and most of the lesson plans are in written form (O'Bannon, 2008).

Importance of lesson planning

Lesson planning is of great significance to both the learner and the teacher in very many ways. The lesson plan acts as a guide to the teachers in order to efficiently teach the same subject and topic for a presentation. The plan therefore acts as a road map to the teaching process. It therefore keeps the teachers on track in order to accomplish the lesson objectives. In some other cases, through the use of the lesson plans, the teachers are able to achieve a logical content arrangement which in turn makes the lesson to be sequential thus improving the learning teaching process through logical impact of the instructions (O'Bannon, 2008). The lesson plan is significant for enabling the early preparation of teachers making a smooth running of the lesson, this happens when the lesson plan has been effectively organized. The early preparation of the teacher enhances effective content delivery and arrangement of all the required equipment and resources for facilitating the learning of that specific content. Some of the resources and equipment that would be organized prior to the lesson involve computers, projectors, availing hand outs and the preparation of the white writing boards and even the semblance of pens. The lesson planning process is important since it adequately provides an evaluation room and process for the teachers in their teachings and resource use. This is in line with the various components of lesson plans which include the objectives, the instructional activities and assessment/evaluation of the teaching process (Mitchell, Diana, & Stephen, 1999). A lesson plan is important in ensuring time management. Through the use of lesson plans, a teacher is able to be guided by the time limits that are provided against each and every activity that is to be carried out throughout the whole lesson, sticking to the provided time limits enable the students and teachers not to exceed the timeline thereby saving more time for other activities. Each time that has been allocated for each particular learning content is professionally utilized by the teacher thus enhancing a time balance during the teaching-learning process. Through the use of lesson plans, the teacher is able to realize the use of varied activities throughout the lesson. The lesson plan enlists the varied communication and instructional activities that a teacher should engage students in during the class time. Such learning activities include questions and answers, formation of groups for discussions, practicum, discussions, presentations and argumentative statements. Through this, the learners learning ability is boosted and thus learning becomes effective and efficient due to the application of a variety of practices within the single lesson framework. Lesson planning is important in the sense that the plans at times act as the memory banks for the teachers. Since the plans have kind of short notes written on them regarding the subject content to be taught, the teacher might refer to them at the time of memory lapse. This helps the teachers not to give irrelevant or rather suspicious instructions to the students. It therefore further act as a memory defense and a point of reference for the teachers while teaching. Lesson planning is a professional requirement for all teachers. A lesson plan is therefore a professional document that a practicing teacher or rather a teacher trainee needs to posses in order to deliver and work within their professional requirements. The ability of a teacher to make a lesson plan enhances the reliability and credibility of such a teacher in the professional teaching field. Through lesson planning, the teacher is able to carry out an assessment of whether the lesson objectives have been achieved by creating and testing a balance between what the objectives of the lesson were and the probable knowledge that has been gained throughout the lesson time thus enabling the teacher to assess the importance and effectiveness of different strategies and resources in achieving the varied educational goals. Lesson planning is a basis of future planning thus increasing the teacher’s future performance in the delivery of the content to learners. The content that has been taught to a particular group at an earlier date can be delivered to a next group of learners by gaining reference to the already existing lesson plans and short notes as the benchmark (Wong, 1998).

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The teaching learning context

The teaching learning context in this case involves a case of children around the age of eight at the lower grade level of learning who are learning more than one language basically English language and other foreign languages. This is basically evident by the presence of writings on the wall marts in a foreign language seemingly Chinese with its relevant translation into the English language. The theories of second language acquisition demand that the learning takes place gradually with limited output during the initial stages of learning new words. In establishing a lesson plan therefore, I would prefer the use of simple models that seem basic such as cups, bowls, spoons and troughs as the learning resources since they are the basic materials that the learners are used to and thus are able to initialize their meanings at a faster rate. This depends on the theory of second language acquisition which states that the progress in learning should be from the less demanding vocabulary related activities towards the complex ones. Vocabulary learning becomes more effective when learners engage themselves with small work groups just like the ones on the wall marts since they are mastered first (Barcroft, 2001). The methodology of learning foreign languages is largely based on the theory stating that it concentrates on simple words with their translations are effective methods of learning and should be reinforced together with relevant together with pictures and pronunciation with maximum avoidance of elements that would distract the process of vocabulary learning such as sentence building at the beginning of the language learning stage. (Nation, 2001) In establishing a lesson plan for such a class, interactions would be a major learning activity since the second language transfer is primarily based on the principles of social interactions with the learners having a comprehensive input to the learning process.

The elements of lesson planning

The core of a lesson is the task and thus the task is organized into varied categories bearing in mind the fact that any vocabulary and grammar formation is largely dependent and increases the likelihood of learners’ distraction away from the task on the detection of errors or looking up languages in grammatical dictionaries. The basic outline of the task based learning lesson is composed of the pre-task, Task and the language focus and task activities.

The lesson or instructional objectives

These are the specific aims that the teacher has for the indicated lesson and should be achieved at the end of the lesson. These are the objectives drawn from the lesson content and should be achieved as short term objectives. The instructional objectives are useful in providing guidance to the teacher in choosing the content matter to be taught to that group of learners. The instructional objectives also guide the teacher on the appropriate selection of materials and resources to be used during the lesson in order to facilitate the learning in class. Through the analysis of the instructional objectives, the teacher is able to design the appropriate teaching strategies and methods. Having understood the lesson objectives, the teacher is able to design and provide the set standards that can be used in measuring the level of student achievements. The objectives are also significant in providing the teachers with the appropriate feedback about the learner and providing observable behaviors to the learners relating to the topic of study (O'Bannon, 2008).

The pre-task cycle

At this point of the lesson, the teacher presents whatever content is to be expected of the students in the task phase. The teacher primes the students with the key vocabulary and grammatical constructs. The learner becomes responsible for selecting the appropriate language for this learning context themselves. The teacher may at this point present the learners with a model of the task through personal involvement, presenting audio materials, video materials or rather presenting the learners with pictures. At this stage, as a teacher I would provide the learners with basic pictures and audio materials that are present as the available resources for such a learning context (Ellis, 2003).

The task cycle

During this phase, the learners are allowed to perform the real task of the lesson; this may take several forms and structures dependent on the type of task thus ranging from small group works, individuals and even stratified clusters of students. The teacher might not play a role at this phase thus changing to be only a counselor or rather an observer. This a more of student centered methodology and is significant in the second language acquisition since the learners need to be more of involved in the process than the teachers. At this point the students will be involved in recitations and group discussions concerning their second language thus their ability to acquire the second language is boosted. After the learner discussions and problem solving approaches, the learners compile a report which is then presented to the teacher and this gives the tasks they have discussed and the final conclusions that they have reached. The learners therefore present their findings in spoken or written formats (Ellis, 2003).

The language focus stage

This stage the specific features from the task and highlighted and a basis of work is instituted upon them. The feedback concerning the learners’ performance at the reporting stage is also provided at this point. The main advantages of task based learning are that the language is used for genuine purposes indicating that real communications is able to take place. At the time when the learners are reporting their discussions they are forced to consider the general language form rather than the specific nature of other models. The aim of task based model is integrating all the four different learning skills. Since the task based learning model is concerned with reading texts, listening to texts, role plays, use of questionnaires and problem solving it offers a great deal of flexibility thus leading more motivational activities of the learners (Ellis, 2003).

The methodology of learning foreign languages is largely based on the theory stating that it concentrates on simple words with their translations are effective methods of learning and should be reinforced together with relevant together with pictures and pronunciation with maximum avoidance of elements that would distract the process of vocabulary learning such as sentence building at the beginning of the language learning stage. The various task phase methodologies such as the use of group discussions and chart studies are very key in improving the second language acquisition process thus would form a basis of learning through the task based model.

Challenges facing teachers in the planning process

Lack of adequate resources The lack of enough resources is one major challenge that faces the lesson planning process. Planning involves the infusion of various resources and equipment in the lesson content and activities. The available limited resources pose a problem when it comes to their utilization and planning for use. The planning of practicum sessions is restricted in such cases since the resources for such activities are not readily available thus limiting the achievement of such instructional objectives based on learner’s practicality and application.

The reference books and dictionaries are also limited thus making the planning for language studies a nightmare to the teachers.

The resources are not up to date The available resources such as dictionaries and encyclopedia may not be up to date thus unable to provide the current information with the changing technological world. Planning for lessons therefore becomes a very heavy task in that the available data does not really match the standards of study. The teachers are therefore unable to effectively plan and deliver to the learners due to the large information gap existing between the updated and old school books.

Limited time available

There is a major challenge in time that is allocated for each and every unit in the schools. All the units are allocated same duration of time which really does not take into considerations the wider nature of certain unit syllabi which require a lot of time. Practicum lessons which require a lot of time are therefore allocated little time thus a problem with achieving the topic objectives.

Individual differences and exposure

Learners hail from different social, economic and political backgrounds thus planning for learner involving activities is a major problem when it comes to assembling technological resources which might have not been exposed to those from disadvantaged backgrounds. This diverts the attention of the planner to use alternative resources which would not be effective. Learners have individual differences such as health issues, intellectual differences within learning institutions. Learners with disabilities require more time that is dedicated to them which is rarely not provided for by the school curriculum (Wong, 1998).

Insights gained for planning in the future

Acquisition of adequate resources and up to date The subject teachers at various learning institutions should be at a position of making requisitions for the resources that are needed for the learning process. The purchase should be made such that the learners do not really strain for the resources during the lesson hours. The resources being purchased should also conform to the changing structures so that they are up to date and with relevant information to help in the knowledge transfer and reconciliation.

Compressing the syllabus content

Since the time available is inadequate for covering the basic syllabus, the syllabus should be compressed such that only the relevant and crucial content is left for study. The teachers can also overcome this by only planning for the lessons in areas of available resources and for a limited duration of time.

SAMPLE LESSON PLAN

Sub-topic: Instructional Objectives:

Barcroft, J. (2001). Second language vocabulary acquisition:A lexical input processing approach. Foreign Language Annals, 37(2), 323-363. Chenoweth, K. (2009). How it's being done:Urgent lessons from unexpected schools. Cambridge: Havard Education Press. Ellis, R. (2003). Task-based language learning and teaching. Oxford: New York:Oxford Applied Linguistics. Mitchell, Diana, & Stephen, T. (1999). Exploring and Teaching the English Language Arts (4th ed.). Boston: MA:Allyn & Bacon. Nation, I. (2001). Learning Vocabulary in another language. cambridge: Cambridge University Press. O'Bannon, B. (2008). What is a Lesson Plan? Tennessee: University of Tennesseee. Wong, H. K. (1998). The first Days of School:How to be an effective Teacher. Mountainview,CA: Harry K. Wong Publications.

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Khan Academy Blog

What High-Quality Lesson Plans Are and Why They Need to Be Available to Teachers at Every Stage of Their Careers

posted on October 4, 2023

By Aviv Weiss , Senior Product Marketing Manager for Educators at Khan Academy and former Teacher

Teaching is the world’s most important profession because it molds future generations. Teachers face the daunting task of educating students effectively and ensuring they grasp all the necessary concepts. To achieve this, teachers must utilize high-quality lesson plans. Lesson plans are vital in guiding teachers’ daily activities in the classroom, and they provide a framework for the course. 

In this blog, we will explore what a lesson plan entails, share tips for creating an effective lesson plan, cover the benefits of using lesson plans, and show how Khanmigo can help with the creation of lesson plans. 

So, What Is a Lesson Plan?

A lesson plan is a comprehensive guide that outlines the objectives and expected learning outcomes for a particular topic or class session. They provide essential details on what a teacher intends to teach, how they will teach it, and the methods they will use. Lesson plans break down complex topics into understandable pieces, making it easier for students to grasp the content and stay engaged in the learning process. And, they offer teachers and the broader instructional team a road map for the day. 

Tips for Creating Effective Lesson Plans

• Identify clear learning objectives for the class session: Clearly define what you want students to learn or achieve during the class session. This will serve as a guide for planning and delivering instruction effectively.
• Choose activities that align with the learning objectives: Select activities that directly support the identified learning objectives. These activities should engage students and provide opportunities for them to practice and apply what they have learned.
• Incorporate formative assessments to gauge student comprehension: Use ongoing assessments throughout the class session to monitor student understanding and progress. These can include quizzes, discussions, or other interactive activities that allow you to gather feedback and adjust instruction as needed.
• Anticipate potential questions and roadblocks to provide clarification: Anticipate common questions or areas where students may struggle to understand the material. Be prepared to provide clarification or additional examples to help students overcome these roadblocks.
• Reflect on the lesson plan’s effectiveness through pre- or post-class review: Before or after the class session, take time to review and reflect on the effectiveness of your lesson plan. Consider what worked well and what could be improved for future sessions. This reflection will help you continuously refine your teaching approach.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Lesson Plans:

• Lack of clear objectives: Failing to define specific learning goals can lead to confusion and ineffective instruction. For example, a lesson plan without clear objectives may result in students not understanding what they are supposed to learn.
• Overloading content: Including too much content in a single lesson plan can overwhelm students and hinder their ability to grasp key concepts. For instance, trying to cover multiple topics in one lesson may result in shallow understanding rather than deep learning.
• Ignoring student engagement: Neglecting to incorporate interactive and engaging activities can make the lesson dull and uninteresting for students. For instance, relying solely on lectures without any hands-on activities or group discussions may result in disengaged learners.
• Lack of differentiation: Failing to address the diverse needs and abilities of students can lead to exclusion and limited-learning outcomes. For example, a failure to provide alternative activities or resources for students with different learning styles may hinder their understanding.
• Inadequate assessment strategies: Neglecting to include appropriate assessment methods can make it difficult to gauge student learning and adjust instruction accordingly. For instance, relying solely on written tests without including formative assessments or projects may not provide a comprehensive view of student progress.

Use our AI prompts for better lesson plans

How can khanmigo help with the creation of lesson plans.

As mentioned earlier, Khanmigo is an AI-powered teaching assistant developed by Khan Academy. It is a particularly powerful instructional designer (i.e. lesson planner) and data analyst. .

Examples of Lesson Plans Generated by Khanmigo

Khanmigo : In this activity, we’ll talk about your class goals and develop a humanities lesson plan together! What topic and grade level would you like to focus on for this lesson? Teacher : Year 5, world history, ancient civilizations. Khanmigo : Fantastic! I’m thrilled to collaborate with you on a Year 5 World History lesson. Now, would you like to dive right in and see a rough draft of the lesson plan, or would you prefer to add more details to customize it to your classroom’s needs? Teacher : A rough draft would be great. Khanmigo : Alright, let’s dive right in! Here’s a rough draft for a Year 5 World History lesson focusing on Ancient Civilizations: Objectives/Standards: Understand the key characteristics of ancient civilizations. Identify the contributions of ancient civilizations to modern society. Essential Question: How have ancient civilizations shaped the world we live in today? Materials: Textbook or online resources on ancient civilizations Chart paper and markers for group work “Ancient Civilizations” by Jane Shuter (Year 5 appropriate text) Hook: Ask students: “If you could time travel, which ancient civilization would you visit and why?” Lesson Activities: Introduction: Review the class purpose and objectives. Discuss what an ancient civilization is and provide examples. Direct Instruction: Read aloud from “Ancient Civilizations” by Jane Shuter, focusing on the key characteristics and contributions of each civilization. Collaborative Practice: Divide students into groups and assign each group an ancient civilization to research. Each group will create a poster highlighting the key characteristics and contributions of their assigned civilization. Discussion: Each group will present their poster to the class. After each presentation, discuss how the civilization has influenced our world today. Assessment: Formative: Teacher will circulate during group work to assess understanding and provide guidance. Summative: Each student will write a short essay on how one ancient civilization has influenced a specific aspect of our modern world. Potential Higher-Order Thinking Questions: How might our world be different if this civilization had not existed? Can you identify any modern practices or technologies that originated from this civilization? Extension Activities: Students can research and present on lesser-known ancient civilizations. Students can create a timeline showing the rise and fall of different civilizations. Differentiation: For students who need additional support, provide a list of key characteristics and contributions to look for during their research. For advanced students, challenge them to compare and contrast two different civilizations. Would you like to add more details to customize this lesson, or does this draft meet your needs?

Khanmigo can do this for you in one click.

Lesson plans are at the core of effective teaching. In this blog, we have explored what a lesson plan entails, tips for creating effective lesson plans, and pitfalls to avoid. Additionally, we have shown how Khanmigo can help teachers create effective lesson plans and we provided examples of lesson plans generated by Khanmigo. Utilizing lesson plans allows teachers to harness the full benefits of their education experience, leading to better results in the classroom environment.

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What Makes a Great Lesson Plan?

by Liz Beck | Aug 11, 2021 | Lesson Plans & Planning

In our last article, we explored who a lesson plan is for . Now it’s time to look at what makes a lesson plan well worth all the time and energy it takes to create one that really makes a difference in the classroom.

There are plenty of lesson planning templates out there. If you’re a teacher, we’re willing to bet you’re actually currently required to use a template, and there’s also a chance that you might hate it (can you tell that we hear this a lot?).

So here’s the thing: there is no Great Lesson Plan Template. There are some good ones, but, like we said before, it’s not about the document; it’s about the plan (which might be mostly in your head, or mostly in the Notes app on your iPhone, or mostly on a post-it note crammed at the bottom of your bag).

Madeline Hunter offers a good beginning for lesson planning

Like just about every educational researcher on the planet, I’m a big fan of Madeline Hunter. She formalized the basic concept of a lesson plan in the mid-20th century, and she’s still right. A good lesson plan follows her model : start with an anticipatory set, move to direct teaching/modeling, have the kids do some guided practice, and then check for student understanding.

But, to me, these terms have always felt a bit inaccessible.

Bringing more clarity to the idea of lesson planning

In our post, the Top 6 Myths About Lesson Plans , we defined a good lesson plan like this:

“…a good lesson plan—at the very least—ensures that all of the students learned something worth learning, and their teacher knows for certain that every one of them learned it.”

This definition may be more accessible, but it’s still a bit vague. So let’s unpack it a little bit more:

A great lesson plan is a framework for

• what your students will learn
• how your students will learn it
• how students will know they learned it
• how the teacher will know the students learned it

If you’ve been in a situation where your kids weren’t fully engaged, or they didn’t learn all of the things you wanted them to learn, we have some thoughts about how a better lesson plan might help.

How to know if you have a great lesson plan

A great lesson plan is a sketch for how you’re going to make sure every student in your class engages with the material and grows in their understanding of it during your class period.

At the end of a truly great lesson, you know (for certain!) the following:

• Every student in your class engaged with the material
• Every student in your class moved forward in their understanding and/or development of skills
• Every student in your class knows what they learned, why they learned it, and what their next steps are

If you don’t know these things at the end of the class period, then you didn’t have a great lesson.

Are your students actually engaging?

A great lesson is engaging.

We know the word “engaging” gets tossed around a lot, but it is a crucial aspect of powerful teaching and learning. (Have you ever left a PD session or completely zoned out of it because it was so boring? We have.) With most content, engagement doesn’t happen naturally.

Here’s an example: Let’s say you need your students to learn about the water cycle. They could read about it, but how do you know they learned anything from reading it? Or, honestly, how do you even know for sure that they actually even read it at all? Couldn’t the kids have just stared silently at the book, occasionally turning the pages?

Your students could watch a video about the water cycle, but you’re up against the same conundrum as reading. They may be totally zoning out (spoiler alert: most of them are totally zoning out).

Or maybe they’re going to listen to you tell them about the water cycle. Are you sure they absorbed what you said? Did they take notes? If they took notes, will they actually remember what they wrote down? Will they truly internalize it? Will they be able to explain the water cycle in 5 years? Does it even matter if they remember it? Why?

A caveat about engagement

One of the tricky things is ensuring that you don’t go too far down the spectrum of pure engagement. For example, trying to see who can build the tallest tower out of paper and tape is super engaging. But, there are few scenarios where building that tower leads to any connections to standards. On the other end of the spectrum, watching a teacher give a PowerPoint presentation while you take guided notes is (unless your teacher is a TEDTalk-level speaker), pretty seriously disengaging. Striking the right balance of engagement and actual learning is quite a task, but it’s not insurmountable.

Easy tips for great lesson plans that engage students in powerful learning

So, how do you engage students in powerful learning? You need tools. Lots of them. We recommend getting started with Doug Lemov’s Teach Like a Champion , and a good handful of tech tools . You need to be able to say, “Okay, my kids need to learn how to do _____; what are at least 5 ways I could help them learn that?”

1. Getting every student engaged

Cold-calling: Stop asking kids to raise their hands. Instead, start randomly calling on kids. Yes, this is awkward and uncomfortable. Keep a cup full of popsicle sticks with your students’ names on them if you can’t keep track.

Read, write, think, talk lesson plans: Create lessons that incorporate these four actions and you’ll guarantee some serious engagement.

Movement: Find ways to incorporate movement every 20 minutes or so. Bonus points if you can utilize activities that incorporate movement and content into the same activity (teaching vocabulary terms with movements is a great way to practice this).

2. Making sure you and your students know what they learned

Conferences : Have an individual conversation with every student every week (it’s not that hard, seriously. Set a timer for 1-minute per student if you’re stressed about time, and see if it isn’t a total game-changer for your relationships and behavior)

Exit tickets: Have kids write down what they learned at the end of each class period.

Portfolios: Have students create and maintain a portfolio showcasing their best work and their reflections on why they think it’s so exceptional. Kids can even do this through creating their own websites at free places like Wix and Weebly. The best thing about portfolios is that they require virtually zero effort on the part of the teacher.

3. Making sure you know what you want your students to learn

Questioning: Plan out all of the questions you would want to ask students about the material (that way you don’t end up throwing out tons of easy questions to your kids). Check out these question stems to get started.

“I Can” statements: Reframe your standards into “I Can” statements, and discuss these with your kids.

The 2 Question Test from Wiggins and McTighe: This is one of our favorite tools, and it will help you figure out whether your assessments, products and projects align to what you actually need students to know.

Interested in getting more training for yourself or your school?

If you’re interested in any of the ideas above, but don’t quite know how you might get started, that’s okay! We’re here to help.

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Why Are Lesson Plans Important for Teachers? (17 Reasons)

For those shaping minds in the classroom, lesson plans are the daily bread, the quintessential ingredient that transforms a jumble of ideas into an orderly feast of knowledge. These plans are teachers’ silent allies, offering a scaffold to the sometimes unpredictable world of teaching.

But is there more to these plans than checkboxes and timelines? Could the humble lesson plan hold the key to transformative education? Join me as we peel back the layers and reveal the compelling reasons why lesson plans are indispensable to every teacher’s craft.

Lesson Plans Help in Setting Clear Objectives

When teachers craft lesson plans, they begin by outlining what they intend for students to learn. This process is intrinsic to successful teaching because clearly defined objectives establish the learning targets that students aim to hit by the end of a lesson.

For example, a science teacher might set an objective for students to understand photosynthesis by the end of the class. This clear objective gives students a concrete goal and a sense of purpose as they engage with the class material.

Setting clear objectives helps students:

• Focus : Students can concentrate on what is most important.
• Track Progress : They can monitor their learning journey against set goals.
• Stay Motivated : Knowing the ‘ why ’ behind their activities boosts engagement.

Additionally, these objectives serve as a north star for all classroom activities, ensuring that each task contributes directly to the intended outcomes. It removes the ambiguity about what is to be achieved and aligns both the teacher’s and the students’ efforts.

Such clarity also facilitates the effectiveness of formative assessments—periodic check-ins during the learning process to understand where students stand in relation to the lesson objectives.

Lesson Plans Provide Structure to the Class Period

A structured class period is akin to a well-choreographed performance. Each element of the lesson is thoughtfully planned and sequenced, creating a smooth flow that enhances student comprehension and engagement.

The structure delineated by a lesson plan is visible not just in the allocation of time to different activities but also in how the content logically progresses, building upon students’ previous knowledge.

What does this structure typically look like in a lesson plan?

• Introduction : The opening segment hooks students’ interests and outlines the lesson.
• Development : This longer phase dives into the new material, often with varying instructional techniques.
• Conclusion : A recap or reflective activity ties the lesson together, emphasizing key takeaways.

Through this structured approach, educators can maximize the instructional impact within the available time frame. An English teacher, for instance, might allocate time for a literature discussion, individual reading, and a writing exercise all within one class. This precision not only keeps the class moving but also ensures that pacing accommodates a complete learning cycle, from introduction to practice to assessment.

Lesson Plans Ensure a Cohesive Content Flow

Cohesion in lesson content is achieved when each part of the lesson connects seamlessly to the next, creating an educational journey where one concept builds upon another. This thoughtful sequencing promotes better understanding and retention, as students can see the relationship between ideas.

Table Illustrating the Content Flow in a Science Lesson Plan:

A lesson plan that lacks cohesion can lead to fragmented learning, with students struggling to make connections between disparate pieces of information. Conversely, a cohesive content flow helps students construct knowledge progressively, linking new learning to prior understanding and setting the stage for future lessons. This logical progression enhances cognitive processing and fosters an integrated approach to learning.

Lesson Plans Serve as a Guide for Teachers During Instruction

Teachers can refer to their lesson plans throughout the lesson to keep track of their teaching progress and ensure that they are covering all necessary material. This guidance is crucial, especially when dealing with complex topics or intricate activities that require careful pacing.

In essence, lesson plans are practical tools that help teachers to:

• Transition smoothly between topics and activities.
• Remember key questions to ask that provoke critical thinking.
• Include strategies for engaging all learners.

Furthermore, a lesson plan serves as a dynamic document that teachers can adapt in real time based on the class’s needs. For instance, if a particular concept isn’t resonating, the teacher can use alternate methods outlined in the plan to clarify. Essentially, a lesson plan assures that the instructor is prepared to handle the unpredictability of teaching.

Lesson Plans Improve Teacher Confidence in Delivering Content

Teachers who spend time developing their lesson plans thoroughly understand their subject material and instructional strategies, which translates to a more self-possessed and resolute teaching style. This self-assuredness is palpable and communicates to students a sense of authority and expertise.

Key elements of a lesson plan that bolster teacher confidence include:

• Detailed outline of the lesson content and activities.
• Pre-identified questions to provoke thought and discussion.
• Back-up plans for when activities don’t go as expected.
• Contingencies for early finishers or those needing extra support.

This robust preparation means teachers are not thrown off by unexpected questions or situations, as they have prepared contingency options. Moreover, teachers who feel confident are more likely to try innovative teaching methods, use technology effectively, and engage students in active learning.

Lesson Plans Contribute to Effective Time Management

Time management is a critical skill in education, as it allows instructors to cover all necessary content without haste. A robust lesson plan acts as a timekeeper, delineating how long should be spent on each segment of the class, ensuring that no single activity overshadows others and that there is a balance between different types of learning experiences.

For instance, a 60-minute lesson might be broken down as follows:

• Introduction: 10 minutes
• Main activity: 30 minutes
• Group practice: 10 minutes
• Conclusion and recap: 10 minutes

Without such foresight, it’s easy for a class session to become lopsided, with teachers either rushing through the last parts of their lesson or finding themselves with time to spare and no activities to fill it.

Lesson Plans Aid in the Organization of Teaching Materials

Organized teaching materials are essential for a smooth-running class. A lesson plan ensures that all the materials needed for a lesson are prepared and utilized effectively. This preparation prevents wasted time and maintains student engagement as the teacher seamlessly transitions from one activity to the next.

By having a designated place in the lesson plan for listing materials, teachers can:

• Prepare handouts, multimedia resources, and other instructional aids in advance.
• Set up needed technology or equipment before students arrive.
• Allocate and organize materials for group work or individual use during class.

Having materials organized as per the lesson plan also minimizes classroom disruptions. This operational readiness reflects a professional approach to teaching, showing students that their time is valued.

Lesson Plans Facilitate Meeting Diverse Learning Needs

In any given classroom, students come with a wide array of learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds. A lesson plan that addresses this diversity incorporates various teaching methods and materials, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

For example, visual aids can help visual learners, while hands-on activities can benefit kinesthetic learners. Lesson plans predict these needs and equip teachers with an arsenal of strategies to differentiate their instruction.

This adaptability might manifest in the form of:

• Group work for peer-to-peer learning,
• Individual tasks tailored to student interests or levels,
• Multimedia resources to cater to different learning preferences.

Understanding and planning for diverse learning needs not only aids in student comprehension but also promotes an inclusive classroom atmosphere where each student’s potential can be realized.

Diversity in learning plans showcases a teacher’s commitment to cater to each student’s educational journey, recognizing that one size does not fit all in effective education.

Lesson Plans Assist in Assessing Student Learning

Assessment is an integral component of the teaching and learning process, and lesson plans are instrumental in integrating assessment seamlessly into classroom activities.

Effective lesson plans delineate when and how to assess understanding and skills through various forms:

• Formative Assessments : Checks for understanding during the lesson, which can be as simple as a thumbs-up or questioning.
• Summative Assessments : End-of-lesson evaluations, such as quizzes or projects, that measure what students have learned.
• Informal Assessments : Observations or spontaneous discussions that offer insight into student progress.

These planned assessments provide teachers with valuable feedback on student learning and instructional effectiveness, allowing for real-time adjustments to teaching methods and lesson pacing.

Moreover, integrating assessment strategies into lesson plans ensures that evaluations are purposeful and aligned with the lesson’s objectives, giving both teacher and student a clear understanding of the learning outcomes and expectations.

Lesson Plans Underline the Importance of Student Engagement

Lesson plans that emphasize student engagement incorporate elements designed to pique interest and foster active, hands-on involvement. The inclusion of engagement strategies such as interactive discussions, group work, and practical experiences speaks volumes about the lesson’s potential to resonate with students.

Strategies aimed at heightening engagement include:

• Asking thought-provoking questions to stimulate discussion.
• Incorporating real-world applications to demonstrate relevance.
• Utilizing gamification elements to make learning enjoyable.

By embedding these elements into lesson plans, teachers can create a dynamic learning environment where student intellectual curiosity and participation are paramount. An engaging lesson plan transforms passive classrooms into hubs of lively academic exploration, thereby increasing the retention of knowledge and fostering a love for learning.

Lesson Plans Facilitate Collaboration Among Teachers

Collaboration among educators is a powerful tool for improving instructional quality, and lesson plans are instrumental in promoting this collaborative spirit.

Here’s how a well-structured lesson plan can encourage teamwork:

• Teachers can work together to align lesson objectives with cross-curricular themes.
• Strategies can be pooled to create comprehensive lessons drawing on multiple areas of expertise.
• Lesson plans allow educators to share successful materials and ideas, reducing prep time and effort.
• Teachers can adapt and refine lessons from others to suit their individual classroom needs.
• Post-lesson discussions based on the lesson plan can lead to insights and shared improvements.
• Teachers can mentor each other by observing and giving feedback on implemented lesson plans.

When lesson plans are used as a foundation for collaboration, teachers combine their strengths, enriching the instructional process and ultimately enhancing student outcomes. This collective approach leads to greater coherence across the curriculum and provides a support network for educators to innovate and grow professionally.

Lesson Plans Streamline the Grading Process

Effective grading goes beyond merely assigning scores; it’s about providing meaningful feedback that fosters student growth.

Lesson plans can simplify this complex process by:

• Establishing clear criteria that link assessments directly to the lesson’s objectives.
• Preparing rubrics and checklists beforehand, ensuring a fair and consistent grading approach.
• Organizing the order of collected assignments for efficient review.

In a lesson plan, assessments are thought out in advance, aligning with the learning targets and making grading more systematic. This organization supplies teachers with a framework that facilitates the evaluation of student work, emphasizing feedback that contributes to learners’ educational development.

Lesson Plans Enable the Integration of Technology into Lessons

Incorporating technology into classroom learning has become an essential part of modern education. Lesson plans provide a framework for effectively embedding technological tools by:

Mapping Technology Use

• Detailing when and how to use specific digital resources.
• Planning for student-centered technology activities, like research projects or digital storytelling.

Facilitating Technology Integration

• Identifying opportunities for interactive lessons using digital platforms.
• Ensuring equitable access to technology for all students.

Enhancing Learning through Tech

• Employing tools that support visual learning, such as interactive whiteboards or educational software.
• Utilizing assessment tools that provide instant feedback through quizzes and online assessments.

Technology, when integrated thoughtfully as outlined in a lesson plan, can transform and enrich the educational experience, making learning engaging and accessible for everyone.

Lesson Plans Enhance Communication with Students and Parents

Clear and effective communication is paramount in education, and lesson plans lay the groundwork for this crucial interaction.

Here’s how lesson plans facilitate communication:

• Transparency: Lesson plans can be shared with students and parents, giving them a clear understanding of the educational objectives and expectations.
• Informed Discussions: Teachers can refer to lesson plans in parent-teacher meetings to discuss student progress and challenges.

Furthermore, posting lesson plans or sending summaries to parents can:

• Engage parents in their child’s learning journey.
• Help parents support homework and study sessions.
• Encourage parental feedback, which can inform future lesson planning.

By maintaining open lines of communication, lesson plans help establish partnerships between teachers, students, and parents, fostering a supportive community focused on student success.

Lesson Plans Offer a Framework for Reflection and Improvement

After a lesson, teachers can revisit their plans to consider what worked and what did not.

This retrospective examination is essential for continuous improvement and may include:

• Effectiveness of Instructional Strategies:  Analyzing which activities engaged students and which fell short.
• Pacing:  Reflecting on whether the allocated time for certain parts of the lesson was adequate.
• Student Outcomes:  Reviewing if the learning objectives were achieved and understanding areas where students may have struggled.

By incorporating both successes and areas for development, lesson plans evolve into living documents that grow in effectiveness with each iteration. In effect, lesson plans guide future instruction, ensuring that the quality of teaching is perpetually honed.

Lesson Plans Help Track Curriculum Coverage

Ensuring that each student receives a comprehensive education inclusive of all the necessary topics and skills is central to the responsibility of teaching. Lesson plans are the mechanism by which educators can track their coverage of the curriculum over the course of a school year.

They enable educators to:

• Conduct Detailed Curriculum Mapping: By recording which standards and benchmarks are covered in each lesson, teachers can ensure that no critical area is neglected. This also aids in making connections between different topics and identifying opportunities for integrative learning.
• Review Progress Towards Goals: Teachers can periodically check the curriculum topics covered against the annual academic calendar. This helps in determining if the class is on track to complete the necessary material before the year’s end or if adjustments need to be made to the teaching schedule.
• Identify Gaps and Address Discrepancies: In cases where certain objectives have not been adequately addressed, lesson plans offer the insight needed to remedy any omissions. Teachers can adjust upcoming lesson plans to revisit topics that need more attention, ensuring that students gain a full understanding across all areas.

Keeping such meticulous records through lesson plans ensures that education is balanced, sequential, and comprehensive, thus upholding high academic standards and consistency in learning experiences.

Lesson Plans Aid in Documenting Teaching Practices

Comprehensive documentation through lesson plans is an essential staple of educational professionalism.

Such records serve multiple vital functions:

• Continuity and Consistency : Detailed lesson plans provide a sense of continuity in teaching practices, ensuring that educational themes and objectives are consistently addressed over time. This is particularly crucial for complex concepts that require scaffolding or for courses that build upon previously acquired knowledge.
• Sharing of Best Practices : Accurate and eloquent documentation facilitates the sharing of pedagogical strategies with peers, fostering a collaborative professional environment. This exchange can inspire teachers to adopt and adapt new methods that may enhance their instructional repertoire.
• Institutional Memory : When teachers document their lesson plans, they contribute to the collective educational wisdom of their institution. For example, when a teacher moves on or retires, the documented lesson plans they leave behind can serve as valuable resources for incoming educators who assume the mantle of teaching those courses.

Documented lesson plans, therefore, are more than just a personal record for a single educator. They act as part of the vital infrastructure supporting the collective educational endeavor, ensuring that quality teaching endures beyond the tenure of individual teachers.

Final Thoughts

Remember that the time spent on lesson plans is a sacred investment. It’s through this investment that the rhythms of the classroom harmonize into an echo of shared educational purpose.

These scripted guides are vessels of intention, holding within them the potential to unlock every student’s learning capacity. They are the teacher’s silent pledge to every classroom challenge: a promise to approach each day with structure, purpose, and adaptability.

As we part ways with this discussion, let every teacher walk away with renewed reverence for the art of lesson planning — because these delicate threads weave the grand tapestry of education that spans generations and molds futures.

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Bea Mariel Saulo

Why Lesson Planning Is Important (40+ Reasons Why According to 10+ Experts)

Lesson planning is a crucial part of the teaching process but can also be one of the most challenging tasks.

But why should educators invest so much time and effort in creating detailed lessons? What benefits does it provide the students, as well as the instructors themselves?

According to experts, here are the reasons why lesson planning is essential:

Natalie Burns, BEd., BSc.

Certified Teacher | Homeschool Advocate, Natalie Burns Mentorship

It can be tempting to ditch the lesson plan, especially when each day reveals new learning challenges you didn’t expect! Often, we find ourselves planning for weeks or months in advance, only to learn that the students were not connecting with that information for lifelong understanding.

Now you’re tweaking your plan to include that same content in a new way for tomorrow and completely rearranging all of the days ahead. It can feel like a waste of time to decide on a plan when the likelihood is so high that the plan will change!

But still, lesson planning is essential. In order to address this massive problem of plan changing, you may want to consider how you go about lesson planning in the future.

Lesson planning allows you to prevent problems from occurring

Every great lesson plan has variety — the spice of life! Get to know your students so you can teach to their strengths, whether with visual tools , auditory components , or kinaesthetic activities . I recommend you include at least 3 of Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences in each lesson to allow more students to connect to the content.

When students are able to more easily process the information in a way that their brain understands, they will be more engaged and willing to participate. When they are engaged, distractions and interruptions are kept to a minimum!

Lesson planning serves as evidence for your learning program

Whether a supervisor, a parent or a substitute teacher comes through the door, a lesson plan allows you to showcase evidence for the educational program you are providing your students.

When you can highlight the information you are presenting and how you are doing that creatively and thoughtfully, the ownership of the actual learning then moves to the student. This is the role of the teacher: the facilitator and guide to meaning-making and connection .

A lesson plan ensures that students take on responsibility for their own learning.

Lesson planning keeps you flexible

That’s right, the biggest roadblock to lesson planning is actually one of the major benefits!

By having a plan in place for what the big idea is, how you will access prior knowledge, and what connections between other ideas will be made, you can formatively assess your students for which areas they are understanding and which areas they still have questions about.

With a clear lesson plan in place, you and the student understand what the learning expectations are and can evaluate whether the student has met those learning expectations. Did they miss the mark? Now you can readdress the information in a new way during the next lesson!

Take the time to plan out your next lesson

Worried about changing your future lessons? Schedule review days in your monthly or yearly plan.


Take the time to plan out your next lesson to spark a sense of wonderment in your students. When a lesson plan includes a big idea, accesses prior knowledge, and promotes connection-making, your students will be more engaged and willing to participate in the learning process.

It allows you to align with your goals

Having a simple plan allows you to align with your goals as you progress through your year, provides a safety structure for your children, and serves as evidence for your learning program.

It allows you to set up learning to prevent problems

Lesson planning allows you to set up learning to prevent problems from occurring by planning for variety in how you present information and the child can become much more engaged in the learning process.

It will spark a sense of wonderment in the learning process

A well-thought-out lesson plan will spark a sense of wonderment in the learning process. When a lesson includes a big idea, accesses prior knowledge, and promotes connection-making, the child will be more engaged and willing to participate.

Dedra Eatmon, Ph.D.

High School Teacher | Founder,  Tassel to Tassel

It allows you to serve yourself and your students better

Lesson planning is an integral part of the educational and teaching process. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or a rookie teacher in your first year, lesson planning allows you to serve yourself and your students better. 

With proper planning, you feel more in control of the learning process, which creates a more soothing learning environment and experience for the class. In my 20+ years of teaching — and teaching teachers — I’ve learned a few lessons about lesson planning. 

As a result of my and my students’ mishaps, I can assure you that lesson planning works. I have identified  four  different important benefits of planning lessons in advance.

It means you are more prepared to teach

In general, lesson planning means you are more prepared to teach. Even if the topic is one I’ve taught before, reviewing the lesson plan helps. 

I sometimes make a new one because each class of students is slightly different, and technological changes may result in modifications to an existing plan. 

You can work through the timing of each lesson segment, from the introduction (or continuation) of a concept to the wrap-up and closure for the day. Planning means you’ve identified example problems, props/learning aids, and/or videos queued up and ready to go.

You can anticipate student misconceptions through lesson planning

While you can’t always put yourself in the intellectual shoes of your students, especially as a rookie teacher, you can think about their prior knowledge and what ideas in the lesson will feel new and unfamiliar to them. 

A seasoned teacher will already have common misconceptions and questions from previous classes. 

It smooths instructional delivery

A third benefit of lesson planning is smooth instructional delivery. You won’t stumble over explanations, and you will find you improvise with more confidence because you’re not winging it. (I’ve done that, and rarely does it end well.) 

Now, this doesn’t mean the students won’t do or ask something that throws you. In those cases, tell them finding the answer to their question is your  “homework” and keep it moving. Just make sure you do it because they will ask you the next day.

You will know exactly where you’d like the lesson to start and end

Lastly, the controlled instructional experience falls right in line with smooth delivery. When you plan, you know exactly where you’d like the lesson to start and end. You’ve thought about how you want to guide your students through the concept, and you’re navigating them with knowledge and forethought. 

Think about it like being their tour guide. Sure, you’ve taken this route a million times, but why not check Google maps to ensure nothing’s changed? 

While different teacher education programs have different versions of a lesson plan guide, they all have one. (If you’re in a traditional K-12, you may  have  to submit them as part of your unit plan, which is something most colleges don’t require.) 

Whether or not you’re required to make lesson plans, they’re helpful. Even a scribbled plan will help improve theprocess more than nothing. There is no shame in an internet search for ideas if you’re at a total loss or have asked a mentor teacher for pointers. 

I’ve been a new teacher, an experienced teacher with a new course, and a seasoned teacher with a familiar course. In every scenario, taking some time to think through the lesson has never failed me. I can’t say the same for jumping in without a plan.

Hannah Lynock

English Teacher | Lead Subject Mentor for Trainee Teachers | Private Tutor, Sherpa Online

It can be satisfying and encouraging

It’s hard to find a teacher who, if they’re completely honest, hasn’t fallen into a rut with their lesson planning. Quickly throwing together some activities in a decent order is easily done in such a relentlessly stressful profession. 

However, revisiting the basics and getting curious again about why things we do are important can revitalize us, giving us a much-needed boost, especially during stressful periods. 

So often, we can get bogged down in marking, meetings, and admin, leaving lesson plans a simple scribble in a planner, and yet I’m sure most educators would agree that delivering a carefully considered lesson with a clear direction and sense of momentum is one of the most satisfying parts of being a teacher. 

I’m also sure that most teachers are aware of the research into what makes the most impact on students’ learning. It’s not the marking, meetings, or spreadsheets; it’s those meaningful and purposeful lessons. 

So let’s remind ourselves of why lesson planning is essential, in the hope it might give us the fuel we need to make it to the end of the winter, spring, or summer term.

Lesson planning is a map of a destination

A sequence of well-planned lessons is a map of a destination. What is the destination? It might be GCSE or A-level results or an end-of-term assessment. It might be getting your class to finally construct a cohesive essay or simply ensuring the curriculum is covered. 

Whatever the endpoint, it will be hard to get there if you don’t plan a route. 

Lesson planning gives you time to consider the needs of your classes

When we’re not giving enough thought to planning a sequence of lessons, it can be tempting to try and tackle too many topics or areas at once as we don’t have a clear idea of timing or how we might build meaningfully upon students’ knowledge or skills. This means nothing gets done in the time and detail required. 

Lesson planning gives you time to consider the needs and progress of your classes carefully.

Knowing a class well is the difference between simply delivering content and making an impact. Of course, in an ideal world, each student would have lessons tailored to them personally, but with most teachers facing classrooms of between 25 and 32 students, the best we can do is deliver lessons that best suit a particular group. 

Planning lessons with deliberate care and attention allows us to reflect upon their previous learning, current progress, preferences, and next steps. 

Lesson planning makes us more reflective practitioners

Sitting down to methodically plan a sequence of lessons is an excellent way to reflect upon our students’ progress and our own performance. We might discover that we rely too heavily on a particular method and begin to experiment with a wider range of activities to engage our students. 

We might note that certain concepts aren’t being grasped as a step has been missed, one which we may not have considered before. 

Teachers tend to have the highest expectations of themselves and so often focus on their areas for improvement, but self-reflection is also a chance to acknowledge and utilize the things you do best and enjoy your everyday successes. 

I acknowledge that teaching is an intense profession, so  “slowing down”  may not feel like an option. The to-do list is never-ending, and the demands on teachers grow every year. 

However, taking the time to plan lessons properly can be satisfying and encouraging, giving us an important reminder of the importance of the essential work we do. 

Jennifer Holt

Teacher | Early Education Expert | Founder, Happy Teacher Mama | Podcast Host, “The Classroom Exit Strategies Podcast”

Lesson planning is one of those topics that can be super-polarizing. There are those who believe in having an entire year planned out ahead of time, while others believe in letting the current interest of the day guide the lesson.

However, having lesson plans is important for  three  specific reasons.

Lesson planning provides structure

We all need structure and boundaries. It gives us complete freedom because we know what we can and cannot do. This same rule applies to lesson planning.  

When teachers have created lesson plans, they know the following:

• What they need to accomplish.
• When they plan to accomplish it.
• How they will reach the final destination.

This allows teachers to stay focused when things inevitably go awry  because they will! It also gives us the ability to build in extra time when we see potential pitfalls on the horizon.

One great example is holidays. Kids love holidays, but this love brings a plethora of potential chaos and distraction.  

By planning lessons ahead of time,  you can cover the most important material far enough in advance of the holidays  that students actually absorb the information.

Then once the content has been mastered, you are free to add in some holiday-themed activities that keep students engaged while simultaneously keeping your plans on track to meet the final outcome.

Lesson planning allows space for impromptu learning

An interesting by-product of having your lessons planned is that you can build space into the day for impromptu learning. Now, this may seem completely counter-intuitive, but let me explain.

Let’s say you notice that a few students seem to be struggling with negative mindsets. You decide to take some time at the moment to talk about how important mindset is to accomplishing goals.  

Obviously, this is different from the multiplication lesson you were planning to teach, but because you have a plan, you know it’s ok to take a  “commercial break”  in order to address the crucial topic that has presented itself.

You can share your personal experience when you had to dig deep into your own growth mindset to help your students realize this isn’t just a one-time thing they are encountering. 

Hearing that an adult has gone through a similar experience gives your students:

• A new appreciation for the struggle.
• Respect you because you were vulnerable by sharing your own struggles.
• A new life skill.

And all of this was made possible because you created your lesson plan in advance! 

Without a lesson plan, you would have been at the mercy of feeling overwhelmed with the idea of shifting gears or changing plans because you wouldn’t know what was coming up next or how to shift around the other learning blocks.

But because you had the lesson plan, you were prepared and already knew what you would do.

Lesson planning creates accountability 

Let’s admit it, we all have days where we are  not  at our best. In fact, some days, we don’t feel like teaching at all.  

Maybe you’re sick, or something is going on that has taken your attention away from your job. Regardless of the reason, no one is always completely mentally present.

Having lesson plans already created allows you to do your job well regardless of how you feel at the moment . With your lesson plans looking back at you, you’re immediately reminded of your final outcome goal, and you become accountable to complete what you previously decided to do.

While it’s entirely possible to have success without lesson plans occasionally, this isn’t a sustainable approach to teaching. So take the time to create lesson plans with built-in time for impromptu learning so that you are ready to keep yourself on track.

Pam Morris, MSEd

Early Childhood Education Director, East Valley JCC

It ensures that all children have their learning goals met each day

Every week, teachers around the globe ponder this important subject:  what will I teach this week?  Where you teach has no bearing on this question; public, private, charter, home-school. 

The need is the same. As a teacher, it is imperative that one has a clear plan for the day, for the week, and for the year. Lesson planning in a classroom is so important for the quality of instruction provided and ensuring that all children have their learning goals met each day. 

It keeps a teacher on track

Lesson planning keeps a teacher on track and is a vital tool when the teacher is unable to be in the classroom due to an absence or other responsibilities. With clear plans , materials provided , and learning goals clearly established, most children can have a successful day, and ultimately, so can each teacher. 

As a first-year teacher, I relied on my lesson plans exclusively. I needed to think out my day ahead of time, so I was organized and had the confidence to lead my students with minimal chaos. 

The more specific I could be, the more comfortable I felt. The plan and the structure were my lifelines at the beginning of my career. As I grew in confidence, the lesson plans were more for the administration and subs. 

They provided the structure and details that the principal needed to make sure that I was meeting all of the requirements set forth by the district. 

It enables teachers to create a structured and well-planned classroom

However, as a director, I now see another layer of importance that should be attributed to lesson plans. While as an experienced teacher, I felt that I could create a structured, well-run classroom, as a director, I am not sure that I was able to meet each child’s individual needs when I didn’t have a written plan. 

It helps teachers to focus on the individual goals of students

The written plans kept me on track and created the framework for learning. They also helped keep me focused on the individual goals of each of my students, so they were reaching their full potential in each area of the classroom. 

Kelly Mason

Tutor Lead & Content Editor, TheTutorLink

Lesson planning is vital to have a schedule for every lesson that is to be taught. However, the following reasons are crucial for lesson planning:

It ensures effective instruction

Lesson planning is important for effective instruction. Through lesson planning, teachers can structure a lesson in a way that allows students to learn the material in a logical, coherent fashion. 

It also provides the teacher with a structure and a plan of action. It outlines the goals, objectives, materials, and activities that will be used to teach the lesson. The lesson plan also includes an assessment component to ensure that students have mastered the content and met the objectives. 

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It promotes efficiency

Lesson planning helps teachers save time and energy. Rather than creating a lesson on the fly, teachers can plan out the material in advance and develop an effective and efficient structure for the lesson. 

It also promotes efficiency by providing a clear structure and objectives for a lesson. This allows the teacher to plan their time efficiently, as they know exactly what content needs to be covered and how. 

Additionally, it can help to streamline the lesson by providing a step-by-step guide for the teacher and students to follow, ensuring that all topics are covered in the allotted time. 

Enhances student engagement

By planning ahead, teachers can create engaging lessons that help to keep students engaged and interested in the material. By providing hands-on activities, visuals, and other engaging components, teachers can help students stay focused and motivated as they learn.

Having a lesson plan can also help the teacher review and adjust their future lessons to enhance students’ engagement.

It is the main component of teaching

Lesson planning is an essential component of successful teaching. It is the process of organizing and preparing a lesson plan that is intended to facilitate student learning. 

Lesson planning helps teachers ensure that they provide students with the best possible instruction by setting objectives, selecting appropriate materials, and creating effective activities and assessments.

Additionally, lesson planning helps teachers to stay organized and on track during lesson delivery. 

It helps in understanding students’ needs

There are several reasons why lesson planning is so important. First, lesson planning helps teachers better understand their students and their needs. 

By taking the time to plan, teachers can think through the activities and assessments they will use to meet the learning objectives for their students. 

This allows teachers to tailor their instruction to meet the individual needs of each student. Second, lesson planning helps to ensure that the instruction is well organized.

Karen Southall Watts

Professor in Humanities | Author, “ The Solo Workday “ and “ Success In College: Strategies for New Grads and Non-Trads “

Though poet Robert Burns has cautioned us that the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry, educators need to plan, even if those plans are upended like the mouse in the field. The reasons are both  ethical  and  practical .

The ethical case for lesson planning

Good teaching and learning happen best within a respectful relationship. Educators trust that students come to us open-minded and willing to learn. In turn, students expect us to be prepared. 

A learning relationship forms when we are honest about our expertise and its limits and come to our students ready to engage and create the environment for learning. 

Coming to class with a plan says to our students:

• I care enough about you to come prepared.
• You can relax and give yourself over to learning because I’ve set the stage.
• We may discover lots of unexpected things together, but we aren’t directionless.

Lesson planning, like professionalism and preparedness in any occupation, demonstrates respect for your students, colleagues, and institution.

The practical case for lesson planning

Do we need to write this down? Is this on the test? How am I going to use this in real life? Students expect educators to be subject matter experts, to present information effectively, to give the “why” behind lessons, and to have a plan. 

K-12 students need the reassurance that teachers are ready and prepared to guide them. Adult learners, ever conscious of the fact that they are paying for education, expect instructors to aid them in getting results. 

Administrators rely on well-planned and executed courses to meet credentialing guidelines and deliver graduates ready for their next education or career steps. None of this happens without careful planning. 

Solid lesson plans provide:

• Assurance that class time is used effectively.
• An overview of learning objectives and deliverables as well as methods and activities.
• A solid framework that can be modified in emergencies and re-engaged afterward.
• Key information for parents, tutors, counselors, or other support professionals as they assist students.
• A structure that may decrease anxiety for learners with academic barriers.
• A roadmap for classes that allow instructors and students to focus on each session’s core objectives.

Lesson planning, while essential, is far from exciting. It requires hours of research and sometimes equal hours of tedious paperwork or online work. Institutions can be reluctant to pay for these invisible hours.

Related: 40+ Reasons Why Research Is Important in Education

Budgets for non-instructional pay may be set by non-teaching administrators who don’t realize how long it takes to create innovative teaching plans. And, like the wee mousie in Burns’ poem, even the most carefully planned lessons can be overturned by individual or institutional emergencies. 

Still, lesson planning remains an essential part of teaching that demonstrates our ethical and professional commitment to the education process.

Arlene Meckes

Middle School & High School Teacher, Twins And Teaching

Lesson plan for less stress

Have you ever stood in front of a class full of students with no idea what to do next? It is not the best feeling in the world and can leave you feeling stressed. Teachers know that when you have a well-planned lesson, students stay engaged, and most importantly, they learn. 

Students can sense if you are prepared and will behave accordingly. Lesson planning is arguably the most important aspect of teaching. 

Knowing how long each activity in a lesson plan will take and having the materials ready to go before the day begins will help with student behavior because there will be less downtime for students to do things they shouldn’t. 

The lesson should be  “tight”  and well-timed with elements such as an objective clearly stated, an anticipatory set, teacher modeling, student practice, and formative assessments. 

How is it done?

The first place to start is your content area’s local, state, and national standards. These are the concepts you should be teaching and will help you design your curriculum map. Using a unit plan and curriculum map at the beginning of the school year or semester gives a general outline of the year. 

Within the unit plans, having weekly objectives written down will help keep you focused. The daily lesson plans will have you feeling planned and ready. Thinking ahead about what you want the students to learn will keep the content moving in the right direction. 

Less stress benefits everyone

Heading into the year, the week, or the day knowing what will be taught will reduce teacher stress significantly. Lesson planning with a teacher buddy can be extremely helpful and can help keep you accountable. 

When teachers feel prepared and planned, students feel secure and safe in the classroom. This leads to fewer behavior problems for administrators to handle. Teachers need support in the lesson planning process, however, including professional development on how to correctly lesson plan as well as support from administration and their colleagues. 

Teachers should understand that they can change their plans if students are not responding to what was originally planned; this does not have to be  “set in stone.”

Facing a class full of students knowing the plan and approximately how long it will take will make your teaching life more enjoyable and a lot less stressful. 

Caroline Farkas

Math Education Specialist | Founder, Doodles and Digits

It allows teachers to think through the components of what makes a great lesson

Lesson planning is one of the most important things a teacher can do to help students succeed. It is crucial to excellent teaching because it allows teachers to thoroughly think through all the components of what makes a great lesson and precisely what they want the learning target. 

A lesson with a learning target of adding fractions will be vastly different than trying to identify the theme of a story. After a learning target has been chosen, a lesson plan will be designed to fit the end goal perfectly. 

When a lesson plan is created, there are many facets that a teacher should consider. Those things include:

• Students’ prior knowledge.
• What gaps need to be filled.
• What standards need to be taught. 

Often, a teacher will give a pre-assessment test to see what prior knowledge students have so that they can fill in learning gaps or differentiate the lessons based on their students’ individual needs. 

As a teacher, I used to change my lesson plans each year, even for the same learning targets, because students’ interests and prior knowledge often differed! 

One year I might design a lesson with a sports theme because I had many students who loved sports, while the next year, I might teach that same standard using video games.

Specifically, in math, it is crucial that students are taught things in a particular order because certain math concepts are built on other concepts. For example, if a student does not know how to place value functions, they will not be able to add or subtract large numbers fluently. 

Lesson planning allows the teacher to be fully prepared by thinking through all the variables that come with teaching, including the essential skills students need to complete the lesson. 

It also allows teachers to find best practices, research-based methods, review materials, and additional resources for students. Additional resources that a teacher might want to use are engaging videos, games, math manipulatives, or hands-on activities. 

It allows you to reflect as a teacher

Finally, lesson planning is important because it allows you to reflect as a teacher. After a lesson, I am able to go through all the components and determine if students achieved the learning target. If it is successful, I can keep it for the following year. 

If it is unsuccessful, I can brainstorm ways to reteach that topic to students and improve upon it. Without a lesson plan, it would be extremely difficult to track in years to come what was taught, how it was taught, and how successful it was.

Zachery VanderGraaff

Music Educator, Dynamic Music Room

Too often, teachers will start a lesson with a broad goal in mind.  “Teach this skill.” “Do this chapter.”  In-depth lesson plans force you to take this to the next level, increasing the learning exponentially! 

Sure, we want them to learn X, Y, and Z. But we don’t all learn the same way, and learning is done best when it’s presented multiple times with different avenues. 

“Thin”  lesson plans get repetitive.  “Thick”  lesson plans give you more tools in your toolbox. Now, you still want to teach X, Y, and Z, but you’re ready to use tools A, B, and C to get it done. 

It gives you space when things go wrong 

I’ve never had a lesson that went off without a hitch, and I’ll bet any teacher would be hard-pressed to say their go perfectly too. Things go wrong. Kids act out. There are a bazillion announcements. It starts snowing. The heater makes horrible banging noise. 

If you rely on thin lesson plans (or no lesson plans), you’re asking for these situations to come in and derail you. By having the plans done in detail, you don’t have to wonder where you were or were going. It’s there for you to help recoup and guide the learning time. 

It breeds teachable moments

One of the most extensive critiques of planning  “too much”  is that it kills flexibility and removes the students from the equation. All those beautiful moments sparking a lifelong desire to learn will be gone. 

I couldn’t disagree more. Detailed lesson plans increase efficiency. Students learn faster, and you teach better. As a result, do you have more time to stop and smell the roses or smell the pencils? 

On top of this extra time, and because your plans are guiding your intent, you’ll see when a teachable moment can cover the concept better than your plans would have in the first place! I plan out almost every minute of my 45-minute classes. 

I end up throwing out about 1/2 of the lesson. I don’t regret it at all! Better moments came, and we accomplished the same goal. But those moments don’t come unless you’ve done the work ahead of time. 

High School English Teacher, The Lit Lady

It helps teachers to create lessons that encourage students to work toward goals

Lesson planning is essential in the high school English classroom. Many effective teachers plan backward, deciding on the end goals first and then creating lessons that encourage students to work toward those goals throughout the unit continuously. 

This ensures that all lessons, activities, projects, homework assignments, etc., are of value. Not only is this an efficient way to work, but it also creates an atmosphere of trust between the teacher and the students. 

No one wants to feel as though their time is being wasted or that they are working to fill the class period simply. 

Students are much more likely to be engaged in everything that a teacher does in class

Students are much more likely to be engaged in everything that a teacher does in class (even the boring stuff!) if they trust that the teacher has competently and thoroughly planned out a path designed for them to learn and succeed. 

If teachers plan with overall student success in mind, the students are going to feel  more confident ,  learn more , and  do better . 

Rachel Gold Cederbaum

Writing & Academic Coach, Gold Signature Writers

Teachers come prepared to meet the students where they get them to where they need to be

When I started teaching in the fall of 2004, I was 21 years old and fresh out of college. I had begged the administrators to place me in a first-year English class (which they happily obliged, most teachers ask for seniors) so that there was a few years gap between my students and me. 

In my first year, I cried more than I would like to admit, and I always worked 10-12 hour days. I arrived at 7 am with the goal of making it to a 6:30 spin class at the gym across the street from my school. 

I lived at my desk after hours, mostly grading and planning. I also camped at the local Barnes & Nobles for a few hours on Saturdays and Sundays in downtown Bethesda (which is now sadly an Anthropologie). 

Besides my mentor, who is still one of my closest friends almost 20 years later, what saved me was the massive binder of lesson plans. It was scripted and detailed; it was handed to me on my first day. 

In fact, each day was mapped out from start to finish and on and on through the end of the year. Now, seasoned and more confident (most days), I would cringe at following those lessons, but 21-year-old me found them  empowering  and  comforting . 

I had a script to follow, thoughtful, critical-thinking questions to ask my students, and literary, plot, character, and theme notes to address. I also had writing prompts for formative and summative exams. 

I had ideas for homework assignments, creative projects with rubrics, and many talking points that were well-written and thought-provoking.

Admittedly, I am type A. I like to have my days, weeks, and months planned out. Flash forward 18 years, I have three small kids, and I own an academic coaching practice, so my days are never straightforward or predictable. 

However, in the classroom, these detailed lesson plans gave me suggestions for how to characterize Atticus Finch and analyze his final speech to the jury, how to close read and discuss the rhetorical strategies Steinbeck used in Of Mice and Men, and most importantly, how to get from 7-3 still standing, well-spoken, and prepared to teach 27 14-year-olds (times five classes a day).

After teaching freshman and loving it, I taught 11th-grade English, IB English, and AP English. The binder evolved with my experience, and the lesson plans became more concise. I no longer relied on five typed pages of notes. Instead, my plans included my objective and a bulleted list of my agenda items. 

Always an over-planner, I usually got through half of what I had planned in any given period, but I was always prepared to fill the time with close reading, synthesis essay practice, rhetorical analysis discussions, in-class debates, Socratic seminars, and argumentative writing. 

Today, when I speak with educators on my team, I always encourage them to plan their sessions the way they plan for their classes. I have consistently witnessed in and out of the classroom that teachers are the hardest working, thoughtful, and detail-oriented professionals. 

Teachers are the experts in their particular field; whether it is advanced math support, executive functioning, or reading support, teachers come prepared to meet the students where they are and get them to where they need to be (with a five-page single-spaced lesson plan or a bulleted list, of course).

AJ Silberman-Moffitt

Senior Editor,  Tandem

Whether you are a teacher by trade or you are responsible for teaching something at work, there is something to be said about being organized. You might be the most educated person on a subject, but when it comes time to teach that subject to others, you need to prepare a plan of action. 

If you don’t, you might find that you don’t cover all the information you need to pass on. This is one reason that having a lesson plan is essential, but there are others.

It sets expectations for others 

Those you are teaching like to know what is expected of them. Providing them with a syllabus or lesson plan will give them a better idea of what they will be doing over the course of the class or instruction.

It helps you to manage your time 

Some lessons will take longer than others. Few courses go on indefinitely, so you must ensure that you have the time to go over everything. You want to account for the time you will need to work on one subject, so you will know how much time you have for teaching the next.

It provides structure 

Many students or learners can become dismayed when they are taught in one style on one day and another style the next day. They almost need to switch brains to accommodate being taught differently on different days. Having structure is good for everyone as it helps to keep things consistent.

It makes you SMART 

This isn’t referring to intelligence but rather the theory of creating something Specific ,  Measurable ,  Attainable ,  Relevant , and  Time-Based . Establishing a plan that relies on the SMART principle can help everyone create and achieve their goals.

It will ensure you are prepared 

You shouldn’t go into a lesson without knowing what you will talk about. This is because you might not have all the tools necessary to discuss that subject. However, if you have a lesson plan, you can prepare beforehand for the lesson you will give.

Don’t worry if you need to change a lesson plan that you have set. Things happen, things change, and things can still go well when they do. Start preparing your lesson plan, and you’ll be glad you did. Your students will be, too.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important thing in lesson planning.

When it comes to lesson planning, one of the most crucial factors is understanding the students and their needs. While a detailed lesson plan is important, it won’t be effective if it doesn’t connect with the students or meet their requirements.

Conducting a needs assessment at the beginning of the academic year or semester is one way to get to know the students better. Teachers can ask questions about their interests, goals, and learning styles, as well as conduct pre-assessments to gauge their knowledge.

Being flexible and willing to adjust the lesson plan as needed is also an important aspect of understanding the students. If a teacher notices that the students are struggling with a particular concept or are particularly interested in a particular activity, they shouldn’t hesitate to make adjustments to better meet their needs.

While having clear objectives, engaging activities, and effective assessments are also crucial to successful lesson planning, an in-depth understanding of the students and their needs is essential.

Therefore, teachers should build their lessons around the needs and interests of the students to ensure that the lesson plan is as effective as possible. By doing so, they will be able to make a significant impact on the student’s learning experience.

What are the qualities of a good lesson plan?

Great lesson plans are essential for effective teaching and learning. A good lesson plan should be well-structured, engaging, and relevant to the needs of your students. Here are some qualities that make a lesson plan effective:

• Clear objectives : A good lesson plan should have clear and measurable objectives that outline what students will learn during the lesson.

• Proper sequencing : The lesson should be organized in a logical sequence that enables students to follow along easily and build on their prior knowledge.

• Active engagement : A great lesson plan should incorporate opportunities for students to actively participate in their learning, such as discussions, group activities, and hands-on projects.

• Differentiation : Effective lesson plans should take into account the varying learning styles and abilities of the students in your class and provide differentiated activities to meet their individual needs.

• Assessment and evaluation : The lesson plan should include assessments that allow you to measure whether students have met the objectives and identify areas where they may need additional support.

• Flexibility : Good lesson plans should be flexible enough to allow for adjustments during the lesson based on student needs, questions, and feedback.

• Relevance : A good lesson plan should be relevant to students’ lives and experiences, making connections between the content and their interests, backgrounds, and future goals.

Overall, a well-designed lesson plan can enhance student learning and engagement, while helping teachers to effectively manage their classrooms and achieve their instructional goals.

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The Will to Teach

Creating Effective Lesson Plans: A Guide for Teachers

Lesson planning is the cornerstone of effective teaching, guiding educators in orchestrating engaging and purposeful student learning experiences. This article explores the art of crafting robust lesson plans, delving into why they are essential, strategies for different career stages, and examples that cater to novice and experienced teachers.

The Importance of Lesson Plans

Beginner level:, intermediate level:, experienced level:, new teacher, experienced teacher, frequently asked questions about lesson planning.

Lesson plans serve as a compass that guides teachers in delivering organized and meaningful instruction. They ensure that essential skills, learning objectives , and curriculum components are covered. Moreover, well-structured lesson plans make it seamless for relief teachers to take over the classroom if needed, maintaining instructional continuity.

Strategies for Crafting Lesson Plans

• Clear Objectives: Set specific learning objectives that align with curriculum goals. Identify what you want students to know, understand, and be able to do by the end of the lesson.
• Structured Format: Use a consistent format with sections like objectives, materials, introduction, activities, assessment, and closure.
• Engagement Strategies : Incorporate diverse instructional strategies to engage different learning styles, such as group discussions, visual aids, or hands-on activities.
• Differentiation: Tailor activities to cater to diverse student needs . Include extension tasks for advanced learners and additional support for struggling students.
• Assessment Strategies: Integrate formative assessments throughout the lesson to gauge student understanding. This can be quizzes, discussions, or group work.
• Technology Integration: Integrate technology tools that enhance learning experiences, such as interactive simulations or digital resources.
• Real-world Application: Design activities that relate to real-life scenarios, connecting classroom learning to practical situations.
• Student-Centered Approach: Foster student agency by incorporating opportunities for self-directed exploration and inquiry-based learning.
• Reflection and Adaptation: Incorporate a section for post-lesson reflection, where you analyze what went well and identify areas for improvement in future lessons.

Lesson Plan Examples

• Objective: Introduce students to basic fractions.
• Materials: Fraction manipulatives, whiteboard, markers.
• Introduction: Engage students with a relatable scenario involving pizza slices.
• Activities: Group work using fraction manipulatives to practice adding and subtracting fractions.
• Assessment: Quick quiz at the end of the class.
• Closure: Review key concepts and provide a preview of the next lesson.
• Objective: Analyze the impact of historical events on society.
• Materials: Primary source documents, multimedia resources.
• Introduction: Pose a thought-provoking question related to historical events.
• Activities: Small group discussions analyzing primary sources and creating presentations.
• Assessment: Peer review of presentations and individual reflections.
• Closure: Facilitate a class discussion on the broader implications of historical events.

Effective lesson planning is an art that evolves with experience. It ensures that teaching is purposeful, engaging, and aligned with educational goals. By tailoring lesson plans to your career stage and employing strategies that promote student engagement and understanding, educators can create impactful learning experiences that empower their students to succeed.

• Why is lesson planning important for teachers? Lesson planning provides a roadmap for teachers to organize their instruction, ensuring that learning objectives are met, curriculum requirements are covered, and students are engaged. It also facilitates smooth classroom management and allows for effective assessment of student progress.
• What should a well-structured lesson plan include? A comprehensive lesson plan typically includes clear learning objectives, a list of materials needed, an engaging introduction, interactive activities, assessment strategies, and a meaningful closure.
• How can lesson plans benefit substitute teachers? Well-crafted lesson plans make it easier for substitute teachers to seamlessly step into your role. Clear instructions, organized activities, and outlined objectives help substitute teachers maintain the learning flow in your absence.
• How can I make my lesson plans more engaging for students? Incorporate diverse instructional strategies, interactive activities, technology tools, and real-world applications to cater to various learning styles and make lessons more engaging.
• How can I ensure that students act on the feedback I provide? Encourage student self-assessment and reflection. Set specific goals for improvement based on your feedback, and revisit those goals periodically. Provide ongoing support and praise for their progress.
• Why should I share lesson plans with parents? Sharing lesson plans with parents fosters transparency and opens channels for meaningful conversations about their child’s learning. It helps parents understand the curriculum, learning objectives, and ways they can support their child at home.
• What is reflective teaching, and why is it important? Reflective teaching involves self-assessment and critical analysis of your instructional practices. It helps you identify strengths, areas for improvement, and adapt your teaching methods to better meet students’ needs.
• How can I make my reflections on teaching meaningful and regular? Set aside dedicated time for reflection, either daily or weekly. Use a journal or digital platform to record observations, successes, challenges, and strategies. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.
• How can I effectively incorporate technology into my lesson plans? Integrate technology tools that enhance learning experiences, such as interactive simulations, multimedia presentations, and online resources. Ensure that technology supports the learning objectives and engages students.
• Can I use the same lesson plan format throughout my teaching career? While your basic lesson plan structure might remain consistent, adapting and refining your approach based on your experience and changing classroom needs is essential for continuous improvement.

Remember, lesson planning is an evolving process that grows with your teaching journey. By staying open to experimentation and incorporating feedback from both students and colleagues, you can refine your lesson planning skills and provide enriching educational experiences for your students.

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The Importance of the Lesson Plan Elements in Education and Teachers’ Practices of Them

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The Value of Lesson Planning

Dr kumaree padayichie.

July 11, 2022

What does an effective lesson plan consist of, and how can we embrace broader child development into the process?

Padayichie, K (2022, July 11). The Value of Lesson Planning. Retrieved from https://www.structural-learning.com/post/lesson-planning

Introduction to Lesson Planning

Every journey begins by taking the first step and as an educator trainee you have embarked on an incredible voyage of sowing the seeds of education that lays the foundation for the fundamental building blocks in Early Childhood Development (ECD) which is from birth to nine years old. Interacting with a kaleidoscope of learners and having the ability to connect with each one on an interpersonal level is one of the greatest gifts for an educator to possess. In the words of Robert John Meehan, “It’s the little conversations that build the relationships and make an impact on each learner.”

We are no longer living in an era where educators are trained in a monocultural context resulting in them not being sufficiently prepared for implementing multicultural education. 21 st Century training of educators focuses on key issues of diversity and inclusion to ensure that these concepts co-exist in our learning environment and is embedded within the lesson plans that we develop.

This article will discuss the importance of how classroom teachers go about designing a lesson plan by having an all-inclusive approach that applies Piaget’s theory of cognitive development , Gardner’s multiple intelligence and Bloom’s taxonomy to ensure efficacy. The style in which the objectives are written and the tools that are employed for the assessment strategy bear relevance to the knowledge, skills and values that are necessary for the core structure of the lesson. Furthermore, the various types of teaching strategies that can be implemented will be explored including a brief discussion on the influence of play in teaching and learning activities.

As a trainee teacher in the field of education, your dedication and willingness to learn plays a pivotal role in your success as your infectious fervour will inspire young learners and motivate them. This path provides you, the class teacher with opportunities to experiment with new methods of teaching and learning and exciting ways of engaging with learners. Displaying a sense of humour cultivates a responsive classroom atmosphere and facilitates learning outcomes. The positive attributes that you portray will be ingrained in the hearts and minds of the learners that you educate leaving an indelible mark.

We must consider the pluralistic society that we live in and keep this at the forefront of our thoughts and ideas when developing lesson plans. Hence, from the moment that a learner enters the school’s environment it should exemplify the concept of ‘ Geborgenheit’ where the learner feels a sense of safety, security, warmth, protection, love and trust by the subject teachers which creates a ‘home away from home’ (Geborgenheit 2022).

The holistic development of a child in Lesson Planning

Lesson plans should be developed by ensuring that the holistic development of the child is prioritised. The holistic development of the learner embraces the physical , moral, social , emotional, cognitive and language developmental spheres of a child. Thus, the mind, body and spirit are interconnected with each other.

As stated by Salami (2016), it is the responsibility of a structured preschool to incorporate developmentally appropriate programmes within its curriculum to ensure the holistic development of the child. One way to ensure this is for the educators to plan every lesson that embodies this idea by positioning behavioural objectives that can accomplish this goal. It can then be deduced that a holistic approach is crucial when planning and assessing . The learner can be assessed as an individual and the educator is cognisant of the linkage of the developmental areas and how progress in one domain can have a ripple effect in another.

Considering key educational theories when lesson planning

By incorporating key educational theories into your lesson planning, you can create a more engaging and effective learning experience for your students. For example, using Blooms Taxonomy can help you structure your lesson in a way that ensures students are not just memorizing information, but truly understanding and applying it. Similarly, incorporating Gardner's Multiple Intelligence theory can help you design activities that appeal to a diverse range of learning styles , making the lesson more accessible and engaging for all students. Ultimately, by using these theories to inform your lesson planning, you can help your students achieve deeper, more meaningful learning outcomes.

Experienced teachers know the value of incorporating key educational theories into their lesson planning. They understand that by doing so, they can create a more dynamic and effective learning experience for their students. By using a variety of theories, such as Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs , teachers can better understand their students' cognitive and emotional needs, and tailor their lessons accordingly.

Experienced teachers also know that by continually reflecting on their practice and seeking out new theories and strategies, they can continue to improve their lesson planning and provide the best possible learning experience for their students.

Lesson Planning using Piaget’s theory of cognitive development

Jean Piaget (1896-1980) was a prominent psychologist of the 20th century and a pioneer in developmental child psychology (Scott and Cogburn 2022). According to Piaget, children’s development can be categorised into four successive stages which is pivotal in early childhood development .

1. In the sensorimotor stage (from birth through to the first 18 to 24 months), is characterised by the progressive acquirement of object permanence in which the child is able to find objects even if the objects have been removed from the child’s field of vision (Ojose 2008:26). It can be inferred that the child has the ability to know that objects continue to exist even though they can no longer be seen or heard.

2. According to Ojose (2008: 27), during the pre-operations stage (ages of two and seven years old) there is lack of logic associated with this stage of development; rational thought makes little appearance. The child links together unrelated events, sees objects as possessing life, does not understand point-of-view, and cannot reverse operations. Therefore, this can be attributed to the egocentric nature of the child who assumes that other people within their realm can see, hear, and feel the same as they do.

3. The concrete operations period (ages seven and 11 years old) sees the dissipation of the egotistic personality trait and the child learns to apply logical rules to concrete or tangible objects and mentally transform, modify, or manipulate what is seen and heard. (Scott and Cogburn 2022)

4. In terms of early childhood development , the above three stages are what would be taken into consideration during the planning phase of the lesson as the content has to be germane to the developmental level of the learners. However, it is still imperative for the educator to know and understand what the next level of development is, which is the formal operations period (age 11 and continues through adolescence). This is the final period of cognitive development. Ojose (2008: 27), states that the learner is capable of forming hypotheses and deducing possible consequences, allowing the child to construct his own mathematics .

Bloom’s Taxonomy in the lesson planning process

Bloom’s taxonomy originally developed during the 1950s and later named after the American educational psychologist Benjamin S. Bloom, who sought to provide a logical, progressive model that identified and ordered all cognitive educational outcomes from simple to complex (Gary 2018).

Questions must be posed at varying levels of difficulty by using Bloom's Taxonomy or any taxonomy including the relevant curriculum document. Educators must be conscious of the fact that learners are active participants in the digital field and incorporate the taxonomy verbs for digital learning. The sample questions designed should encourage learners to become critical thinkers and to steer away from Yes/No responses. Questions must be open-ended to allow for engagement and for learners to think about their own thinking (on a metacognitive level). The links below provide information on:

• Blooms Taxonomy and the verbs that accompany each domain

https://edspace.american.edu/ctrl/blooms_taxonomy/

• Integrating Technology with Bloom’s Technology

https://teachonline.asu.edu/2016/05/integrating-technology-blooms-taxonomy/

Reaching the lesson objective through Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence model

For an educator to stimulate intellectual competencies in learners, it is essential to provide activities that encompass all types of intelligence. Gardner's Multiple Intelligences comprises of linguistic , logical/mathematical, s patial, bodily-kinaesthetic, musical , interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalist (Dolati and Tahriri 2017).

‍ If the educator considers these types of intelligence and arranges classroom activities and daily plans according to them, some difficulties regarding learning such as inattentiveness, undesirable behaviours, disengagement from a lesson, and perception of lack of success may disappear ( Yenice & Aktamis, 2010 in Dolati and Tahriri 2017).

The links below provide examples of how Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence can be incorporated into a lesson:

• Using Multiple Intelligence Activities for Pre-schoolers
• http://ramblingsofateachaholic.weebly.com/uploads/4/7/0/8/4708633/using_multiple_intellisgnce_for_preschoolers.pdf
• The use of Spelling Activities based on Bloom’s Taxonomy Six Thinking Levels implanted within the Multiple Intelligence approach
• https://www.st-marys-pulborough.w-sussex.sch.uk/storage/secure_download/Zlp6cGhEdUdPZlliS1paSDAxZDh0UT09

It is therefore crucial that Blooms Taxonomy or any other taxonomy that is applicable and the inclusion of Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence is used when designing the lesson plan and should be evident in the presentation of the lesson as well.

The Role of Prior Knowledge in an effective lesson plan

We should not be dismissive on the importance of lesson planning as it is the onset of ensuring that optimal learning takes place. The educator must identify the learner’s prior knowledge and this entails reviewing the curriculum documents and identifying where the learners initially received the foundation of the lesson. Based on this knowledge, the educator then deems what concept will be built on.

Value based teaching (such as respect, honesty, accountability, responsibility), including 21 st Century learning skills should be entrenched in the lesson plans to encompass the 7C’s: communication, collaboration, critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovation, change, citizenship, character, 3R’s: reading , writing and arithmetic and 2M’s: motivation and meta-cognition. Thus, for an effective educator to excel in planning and preparation, they must “design instruction that reflects an understanding of the disciplines they teach (Danielson 2007:27 in Straessle 2014:36). 

Objectives and Assessment Strategies in successful lesson plans

When teachers are stating objectives, a measurable verb should be used such as ‘ differentiate , list, identify, create, observe, or explain , instead of understand, know, learn as the latter cannot be measured. The knowledge, skills, attitudes, values that is meant to be taught to the learners during the lesson must be stated.

This can be done by reverting to the curriculum document for guidance. As the outcomes must be achieved, stating too many outcomes will not be conducive to a successful lesson. Assessment strategies are significant as it will inform the educator as to whether the objectives have been reached. Therefore, it must be aligned to the outcomes and the following assessment tools can be used: observation, checklists, a rubric, marking of tasks, the use of peer assessments and questioning. Straessle (2014:43), elucidates that there is a need for educators to create clear objectives followed by quality assignments, so that learner achievement will follow.

Considering Learners requiring special attention in High-Quality lesson Plans

It is imperative that when teachers are shaping a lesson plan, that learners needing special attention are considered and how they would be accommodated, for that particular lesson. This is a crucial aspect to planning as adjustments would have to be made to teaching or the activities for that specific learner ( visual, auditory and depending on the other special needs of your learners).

This then involves the consideration of multiple aspects of the classroom, ranging from methods to involve the learners in the material and resources to the different manners in which learners may respond (Straessle 2014:35). Thus, the selection of teaching strategies is vital as it creates a road map for the lesson and it is pertinent for 21 st Century teaching and learning as learners require the life skill of being an active participant in a global community . There is a plethora of information available revolving around teaching strategies and some examples are highlighted below.

Teaching Strategies that promote the learning process

O ECD .org (2016:6), highlights the existence of three teaching strategies which are referred to as active learning, cognitive activation and educator-directed instruction . Active learning consists of promoting the engagement of learners in their own learning. Under this strategy, learners’ discussions , group work, co‑operation, reflection and the necessary support to foster these activities play a leading role.

Brame and Biel (2015), concur that an effective strategy is cooperative learning as this strategy has learners working in groups together to learn or solve a problem, with each individual responsible for understanding all aspects. Small groups are essential to this process because there is a dual relationship between the learners and their peers. Hence, they can learn the skill to listen to the views of their peers and in so doing can be heard as well.

This is significant in terms of 21 st Century learning as in a traditional classroom setting learners may devote more time listening to the subject content that the educator delivers. This strategy is efficacious as the changing the role of the educator from ‘lecturing’ to facilitating the groups helps foster this social environment for learners to learn through engagement.

Furthermore, O ECD .org (2016:6), states that the inclusion and use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in the classroom can help to foster an interactive and individual learning environment. Wegner, Minnaert, and Strehlke (2013:137), further highlight that one strategy that allows for autonomy is when technology is used in the classroom as learners are physically engrossed during the lesson and can instantly research their ideas and subsequently develop self-sufficiency.

Cognitive activation refers to the use of practices capable of challenging learners to motivate them and stimulate higher order skills , such as critical thinking, problem solving and decision making. This strategy not only encourages learners to find creative and alternative ways to solve problems, but enables them to communicate their thinking processes and results with their peers and educators. Lastly, educator-directed instruction which refers to teaching practices that rely, to a great extent, on an educator’s ability to deliver orderly and clear lessons. Making explicit the learning goals, providing a summary of previous lessons, or asking short, fact-based questions are examples of practices that help to structure lessons (O ECD .org 2016:6).

Incorporating Learning through play to make Engaging Lessons

Johnson et al (2005), eloquently purports that play is the universal language of childhood and it can be adapted to the classroom by educators employing three major notions; the quality of play in early childhood , play as a means of self-expression, and play as a channel of communication to achieving social sense.

Correspondingly, Claiborne et al (2020), further expounds that children learn through play and are curious by nature and should be provided with learning opportunities where they are exposed to environments that permit investigation and exploration. One constructive teaching strategy is ‘taking learning outside of the classroom’ as it is an active process, wherein learners encounter authentic problems , construct innovative premises, test for real solutions and interact with others to make sense of the world around them. To quote Dianne Ackerman, ‘ Play is our brain’s favourite way of learning .’

Although the indoor and outdoor play area should be visually stimulating and aesthetically appealing, it must be considered when developing the lesson plan as it plays a key role in educational benefits. The learners physical, moral, social, emotional, cognitive and language development flourishes here as well. Johnson, Christie and Wardle (2005) in Richard (2019:11), concurs that play, whether indoors or outdoors , has been shown to positively impact children’s cognitive, language and literacy, social, and emotional development.

Final words lesson planning

The lesson introduction should be enjoyable and engaging where the learner’s attention is captured as it is a launching pad into the lesson development. The idea is to encourage learners to build on their own knowledge bank and this is achieved by the educator using exemplary questioning techniques where the learners become the drivers of the lesson and the educator the facilitator. Following the introduction is the lesson development, which should reflect the teaching of the lesson and how core content will be taught which has to be linked to the outcomes as the educator is the architect of the lesson .

Latest researched content must be imparted to the learners and this must be based on the learner’s life experiences so that primary links can be made. For this reason, it is vital that lessons are integrated from or with other subjects and or content areas as is necessary as lessons are not taught in isolation of other subjects . The consolidation of the lesson plan should reveal your summation of the lesson and not just a reviewing of an activity. It must be of additional value where you recapitulate the principal concepts/skills that you taught during the development phase. An extension activity should be built into the lesson for learners that complete the tasks earlier and this should be one that a learner can complete independently and is stimulating .

Lessons plans are used as a vessel to disseminate information to learners for them to gain knowledge , values and skills . To evoke the learner’s natural, instinctive ability to discover, explore and investigate; opportunities for play must reflect in the lesson plan. The classroom is a curated experience and effective lesson planning is a chief component of professional teaching practice.

An educator should be a reflective practitioner as it is important that at the culmination of every lesson, reflection takes place based on the strengths and challenges of the lesson for adjustments to be made for future lessons. Lesson planning allows the educator to provide the learners with the required structure and direction to receive knowledge and skills through engaging methods of instruction. Similarly, it allows educators to meet the diverse learning styles of learners through differentiation of teaching.

Lesson Plan References

Brame, C.J. and Biel, R. 2015. Setting up and facilitating group work: Using cooperative learning groups effectively . Vanderbilt University Center for Teaching. Available at: http://cft.vanderbilt.edu/guides-sub-pages/setting-up-and-facilitating-group-work-using-cooperative-learning-groups-effectively/ [Accessed on 4 July 2022].

Claiborne, L., Morrell, J., Bandy, J., Bruff, D., Smith, G. and Fedesco, H. 2020. Teaching Outside the Classroom. Vanderbilt University Center for Teaching. Available at: https://cft.vanderbilt.edu/guides-sub-pages/teaching-outside-the-classroom/. [Accessed on 4 July 2022].

Danielson, C. 2007. Enhancing professional practice: A framework for teaching (2 nd edition). Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.Dictionary.cambridge.org. 2022.  Geborgenheit . [online] Available at: <https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/german-english/geborgenheit> [Accessed on 4 July 2022].

Dolati, Z. and Tahriri, A. 2017.EFL Educators’ Multiple Intelligences and Their Classroom Practice. SAGE Journals. Available at: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2158244017722582 [Accessed on 4 July 2022].

Gary, R. 2018. Bloom’s Taxonomy. In: Bruce B. Frey Editor, 2018.  The SAGE Encyclopedia of Educational Research, Measurement, and Evaluation , Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc. pp. 207-210 Available at: <https://dx.doi.org/10.4135/9781506326139.n86> [Accessed on 4 July 2022].

Johnson, J. E., Christie, J. F., & Wardle, F. 2005. Play, Development, and Early Education. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc

Johnson, J. E., Christie, J. F., & Wardle, F. 2005. Play, Development, and Early Education. [online] Pearson.com. Available at: <https://www.pearson.com/us/higher-education/program/Johnson-Play-Development-and-Early-Education/PGM155363.html> [Accessed on 5 July 2022].

OECD.org. 2016.  Teaching Strategies for Instructional Quality . [online] Available at: <https://www.oecd.org/education/school/TALIS-PISA-LINK-teaching_strategies_brochure.pdf> [Accessed on 4 July 2022].

Ojose, B., 2008. Applying Piaget's theory of cognitive development to mathematics instruction.  The Mathematics Educator ,  18 (1).

Richard, B. 2019.  Exploring the Implementation of Outdoor Play in Nova Scotia’s Pre-primary Program. Master’s Thesis. [online] Dc.msvu.ca. Available at: <http://dc.msvu.ca:8080/xmlui/bitstream/handle/10587/1999/BrennaRichardMACYSThesis2019.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y> [Accessed on 4 July 2022].Salami, I.A. 2016. Towards the Holistic Development of Children in Oyo State: The Scope of the Behavioural Objectives in Preschool Educators' Lesson Plans. 7. 1=7.

Scott, H.K. and Cogburn, M. 2022. Piaget. Natural Library of Medicine. National Center for Biotechnology Information. [Online]. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448206/ [Accessed on 2 July 2022].

Straessle, Jessica M. W. 2014. "Educators' perspectives of effective lesson planning: A comparative analysis" Dissertations, Theses, and Masters Projects. Paper 1550154173. [online] Available at: https://dx.doi.org/doi:10.25774/w4-8swa-7371 [Accessed on 5 July 2022].

Wegner, C., Minnaert, L. and Strehlke, F., 2013. The Importance of Learning Strategies and How the Project" Kolumbus-Kids" Promotes Them Successfully.  European Journal of Science and Mathematics Education ,  1 (3), pp.137-143.

Yenice, N. and Aktamis, H. (2010). An investigation of multiple intelligence areas of the primary educator education learners. Journal of Turkish Science Education, 7(3), 100-103.

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Lesson Planning

You are here, what is a lesson plan.

A lesson plan is the instructor’s road map of what students need to learn and how it will be done effectively during the class time. Then, you can design appropriate learning activities and develop strategies to obtain feedback on student learning. Having a carefully constructed lesson plan for each 3-hour lesson allows you to enter the classroom with more confidence and maximizes your chance of having a meaningful learning experience with your students.

A successful lesson plan addresses and integrates three key components:

• Learning Objectives
• Learning activities
• Assessment to check for student understanding

A lesson plan provides you with a general outline of your teaching goals, learning objectives, and means to accomplish them, and is by no means exhaustive. A productive lesson is not one in which everything goes exactly as planned, but one in which both students and instructor learn from each other. You may refer to an example of a 3 hour lesson plan here .

Before Class: Steps for preparing a lesson plan

Listed below are 6 steps for preparing your lesson plan before your class.

1. Identify the learning objectives

Before you plan your lesson, you will first need to identify the learning objectives for the lesson. A learning objective describes what the learner will know or be able to do after the learning experience rather than what the learner will be exposed to during the instruction (i.e. topics). Typically, it is written in a language that is easily understood by students and clearly related to the program learning outcomes. The table below contains the characteristics of clear learning objectives:

The Bloom’s Revised Taxonomy of Educational Objectives ( link ) is a useful resource for crafting learning objectives that are demonstrable and measurable.

2. Plan the specific learning activities

When planning learning activities you should consider the types of activities students will need to engage in, in order to develop the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate effective learning in the course. Learning activities should be directly related to the learning objectives of the course, and provide experiences that will enable students to engage in, practice, and gain feedback on specific progress towards those objectives.

As you plan your learning activities, estimate how much time you will spend on each. Build in time for extended explanation or discussion, but also be prepared to move on quickly to different applications or problems, and to identify strategies that check for understanding. Some questions to think about as you design the learning activities you will use are:

• What will I do to explain the topic?
• What will I do to illustrate the topic in a different way?
• How can I engage students in the topic?
• What are some relevant real-life examples, analogies, or situations that can help students understand the topic?
• What will students need to do to help them understand the topic better?

Many activities can be used to engage learners. The activity types (i.e. what the student is doing) and their examples provided below are by no means an exhaustive list, but will help you in thinking through how best to design and deliver high impact learning experiences for your students in a typical lesson.

It is important that each learning activity in the lesson must be (1) aligned to the lesson’s learning objectives, (2) meaningfully engage students in active, constructive, authentic, and collaborative ways, and (3) useful where the student is able to take what they have learnt from engaging with the activity and use it in another context, or for another purpose.

3. Plan to assess student understanding

Assessments (e.g., tests, papers, problem sets, performances) provide opportunities for students to demonstrate and practice the knowledge and skills articulated in the learning objectives, and for instructors to offer targeted feedback that can guide further learning.

Planning for assessment allows you to find out whether your students are learning. It involves making decisions about:

• Examples of different assessments
• Formative and/or summative
• Self-assessment
• Peer assessment
• Information about how various tasks are to be weighted and combined into an overall grade must be provided to students.
• Giving feedback to students on how to improve their learning, as well as giving feedback to instructors how to refine their teaching.

To learn more about designing assessment, click here .

4. Plan to sequence the lesson in an engaging and meaningful manner

Robert Gagne proposed a nine-step process called the events of instruction, which is useful for planning the sequence of your lesson. Using Gagne’s 9 events in conjunction with Bloom’s Revised Taxonomy of Educational Objectives ( link ) aids in designing engaging and meaningful instruction.

Gange's Nine Events of Instruction by CourseArc is licensed under CC BY 4.0.

• Present a story or a problem to be solved.
• Utilize ice breaker activities, current news and events, case studies, YouTube videos, and so on. The objective is to quickly grab student attention and interest in the topic.
• Utilize technologies such as clickers, and surveys to ask leading questions prior to lecture, survey opinion, or gain a response to a controversial question.
• Include learning objectives in lecture slides, the syllabus, and in instructions for activities, projects and papers.
• Describe required performance.
• Describe criteria for standard performance.
• Help students make sense of new information by relating it to something they already know or something they have already experienced.
• Recall events from previous lecture, integrate results of activities into the current topic, and/or relate previous information to the current topic.
• Ask students about their understanding of previous concepts.
• Sequence and chunk the information to avoid cognitive overload.
• Blend the information to aid in information recall.
• Bloom's Revised Taxonomy can be used to help sequence the lesson by helping you chunk them into levels of difficulty.
• Provide instructional support as needed – as scaffolds (cues, hints, prompts) which can be removed after the student learns the task or content.
• Model varied learning strategies – mnemonics, concept mapping, role playing, visualizing.
• Use examples and non-examples.

To find out more about scaffolding student learning, click here.

• Allow students to apply knowledge in group or individual activities.
• Ask deep-learning questions, make reference to what students already know or have students collaborate with their peers.
• Ask students to recite, revisit, or reiterate information they have learned.
• Facilitate student elaborations – ask students to elaborate or explain details and provide more complexity to their responses.
• Consider using group / class level feedback (highlighting common errors, give examples or models of target performance, show students what you do not want).
• Consider implementing peer feedback.
• Require students to specify how they used feedback in subsequent works.
• Utilise a variety of assessment methods including exams/quizzes, written assignments, projects, and so on.
• Provide opportunities for students to relate course work to their personal experiences.
• Provide additional practice.

5. Create a realistic timeline

A list of ten learning objectives is not realistic, so narrow down your list to the two or three key concepts, ideas, or skills you want students to learn in the lesson. Your list of prioritized learning objectives will help you make decisions on the spot and adjust your lesson plan as needed. Here are some strategies for creating a realistic timeline:

• Estimate how much time each of the activities will take, then plan some extra time for each.
• When you prepare your lesson plan, next to each activity indicate how much time you expect it will take.
• Plan a few minutes at the end of class to answer any remaining questions and to sum up key points.
• Plan an extra activity or discussion question in case you have time left.
• Be flexible – be ready to adjust your lesson plan to students’ needs and focus on what seems to be more productive rather than sticking to your original plan.

6. Plan for a lesson closure

Lesson closure provides an opportunity to solidify student learning. Lesson closure is useful for both instructors and students.

You can use closure to:

• Check for student understanding and inform subsequent instruction (adjust your teaching accordingly)
• Emphasise key information
• Tie up loose ends
• Correct students’ misunderstandings
• Preview upcoming topics

Your students will find your closure helpful for:

• Summarizing, reviewing, and demonstrating their understanding of major points
• Consolidating and internalising key information
• Linking lesson ideas to a conceptual framework and/or previously-learned knowledge
• Transferring ideas to new situations

There are several ways in which you can put a closure to the lesson:

• State the main points yourself (“Today we talked about…”)
• Ask a student to help you summarize them
• Ask all students to write down on a piece of paper what they think were the main points of the lesson

During the class: Presenting your lesson plan

Letting your students know what they will be learning and doing in class will help keep them more engaged and on track. Providing a meaningful organisation of the class time can help students not only remember better, but also follow your presentation and understand the rationale behind the planned learning activities. You can share your lesson plan by writing a brief agenda on the whiteboard or telling students explicitly what they will be learning and doing in class. Click on link here for tips and techniques to facilitate an interactive lesson.

After the class: Reflecting on your lesson plan

Take a few minutes after each class to reflect on what worked well and why, and what you could have done differently. Identifying successful and less successful organization of class time and activities would make it easier to adjust to the contingencies of the classroom. If needed, revise the lesson plan.

Bibliography

• Ambrose, S., Bridges, M., Lovett, M., DiPietro, M., & Norman, M. (2010). How learning works: 7 research-based principles for smart teaching. San Francisco, CA: Jossey Bass.
• EDUCAUSE (2005). Potential Learning Activities. Retrieved April 7 2017, from EDUCAUSE website: https://net.educause.edu/ir/library/pdf/NLI0547B.pdf .
• Fink, D. L. (2005). Integrated course design. Manhattan, KS: The IDEA Center. Retrieved from http://ideaedu.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Idea_Paper_42.pdf .
• Gagne, R. M., Wager, W.W., Golas, K. C. & Keller, J. M (2005). Principles of Instructional Design (5th edition). California: Wadsworth.
• Gredler, M. E. (2004). Games and simulations and their relationships to learning. In D. H. Jonassen (Ed.), Handbook of research for educational communications and technology (2nd ed., pp. 571-82). Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
• Richardson, J.C., & Swan. K. (2003). Examining social presence in online courses in relation to students' perceived learning and satisfaction. Journal of Asynchronous Learning Networks 7(1), 68-88.
• Schuell, T.J. (1986). Cognitive conceptions of learning. Review of Educational Research, 56, 411-436.

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Importance of Lesson Plan

Lesson plan prepares a lot of importance and benefit to the teachers and learners. Hence, here there are following importance that included in lesson plan. First, lesson plan shows the importance in teacher parts. Mostly, teachers use the lesson plan as their guide to teach the same subject or topic for a presentation. As a result, it keeps them on track to accomplish the objectives. For instance, teachers must do arrangement the contents in logically order to make lesson go in sequence.

In addition, to be lesson plan is well organized, usually the teachers will do early preparation the lesson plan to make it smooth running of the lesson. As example, teachers should prepared all equipments is needed in their teaching. Examples of equipment are computer, projector, handouts or white board and marker pen. Without all these things absolutely the teaching is not takes placed. Besides that, lesson plan produced an effective teaching. It shows the effectiveness in teaching when it provides benefit to both sides such as teacher and learner.

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For example, the learners will more easily understand the teaching. From that, it promotes high level of confidence between teachers and learners. Furthermore, lesson plan is possible introduction of education technology. As we can see nowadays, most the teaching session will used the materials based on technology products. This can proved that educational level is developing towards the world. In addition, lesson plan also provides the room to teacher for evaluation and assessment for their teaching.

According to the teaching principles 2, where it consists of three major components such as objectives, instructional activities and assessment. For instance, a nurse wants to bring the Cancer patient visit to X-Ray department to show the radiation therapy procedure. Therefore the X-Ray department should be informed before the nurse brings the patient to the department. This can show that lesson plan is important where make the visit is organized properly. Moreover, there are some importances by applying lesson plan in teaching process.

The teacher able to measure whether they are delivered good teaching to the learners or not. As example, the teacher will give the tasks or tests to the learner to be do. Hence, the feedback from the learner will be the measurement of the performance. So, if the feedback is negative the teacher must take actions to solve the problems. For example, re-teach or re-enforcement must be doing to improve their teaching and enhance understanding from the learner.

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6 reasons why it is important to have a lesson plan

Think of a time when you enter a classroom without any plans. How do you feel? How would you feel if you need to run to make photocopies in the middle of the class? Here are 6 reasons why it is important for teachers to have a lesson plan.

1. Ensure alignment across grades

Lesson planning should be done across grades to avoid omissions and unnecessary repetition. If student have not been taught addition and subtraction from 20 to 100 in Grade 1, they are not ready for addition and subtraction in the hundreds in Grade 2. If students have been taught multiplication for 6,7,8 and 9 in Grade 3, teachers should not be repeating the same multiplication tables in Grade 4. There is a difference between revision after the summer break and spending weeks on the topic as though the students have not done this before. Yet quite often, we see either omissions or overlaps across grades.

The end of the semester is the best time to have grades meeting, to discuss what has been accomplished and what needs to be worked on. If students are struggling this year, the teacher needs to inform the teacher teaching the next grade of the gap, discuss strategies for filling the gaps and ways to avoid them in the future.

2. Avoid teaching from cover to cover

While this might work for some cases, I find that textbooks in the U.S. usually include a lot more materials than is required. While it provides teachers with options, it can be confusing for some teachers when they need to decide on what to teach. Teachers teaching from textbook cover to cover sometimes find that they are not able to accomplish their goals, and need to rush through the last few topics.

A lesson plan is important as it gives a sense of direction in relation to standards. Teachers know what is important and what is secondary. It is more important for the students to learn deeply with understanding, than to skim through many topics superficially.

3. How to teach

While being clear about what topics to teach is important, knowing how to teach them is the key to success in the classroom. The same topic can be (and should be) taught differently, depending on the students’ skills, temperament and attitude. These considerations should influence a teacher’s planning of the tasks to be presented, resources needed and pacing of the lessons. With the students in mind, the teacher should ask questions like “Should we spend more time on concrete manipulatives?”, “Use more worksheets for practice?” Or even “would printing worksheets in color versus black and white make a difference?”

4. A good lesson plan makes a confident teacher

Many teachers teach the way they were taught as students. However, that might not be the best way. We need to constantly update ourselves with best practices that work, and how to teach more effectively. For example, a teacher who has only learned “how to” and not “why” when growing up will need to evaluate their own gap in knowledge when drawing out the lesson plans for the semester. This gives the teacher confidence when delivering the lesson in the classroom. A confident teacher inspires respect from students, which in turn reduces discipline problems.

5. Lesson planning now saves time in future

Lesson plans serve as a useful basis for future planning. They can be used again, in part or in whole, for future classes. Lesson planning for subsequent years can be drawn from and modified from current planning. The extra effort put in by first year teachers to plan and organize the entire year’s lesson plans and resources will go a long way for subsequent years teaching the same level.

6. Handing over and professional performance

A clear lesson plan can be used by substitute teachers, ensuring that time is used productively, when the main teacher is not around. It can also serve as a central document for handing over to new teachers who are teaching the level for the first time. In addition, lesson plans, along with other materials, can also be used to support annual performance evaluation. Teachers applying for new job can also submit samples of their lesson plans to show their content understanding and organizational skills.

There are many important benefits of having a clear and organized set of lesson plans. Good planning allows for more effective teaching and learning. However, many things can happen in class, and it is important for teachers to adapt their plans to respond to the students’ needs. As Jim Scrivener says, “Prepare thoroughly. But, in class, teach the learners, not the plan.”

Singapore math lesson plans and resources:

11 thoughts on “6 reasons why it is important to have a lesson plan”

I always spend a lot of time on my math lesson plans even after years of teaching so that the kids get the best lesson possible. I keep hoping I can recycle them but it never seems to happen!

Yes, I totally get you! The class is different every year, and there are also new ideas to try out every year. I guess that’s what make teaching exciting – you’ll never know what you are going to get!

– Kar Hwee

This information was very useful Andy still working out good for me

Thanks alot for the detailed information about a lesson plan…..i was actually stuck when i was asked to discuss importance of a lesson plan

very interesting explanation.

Incredible and to the point

i feel excited to know the importance of lesson plan as a student teacher will guide me during my practice

Very clear explanations.

Thanks, very clear and detailed!

very clear and detailed piece of work. this indeed is a encouragement to every teacher who thinks planning is a share worst of time. in the same vein, would like you to assist in discussing the proposition “that a research proposal is like a lesson plan”. thank you in anticipation.

Vry clear and useful information.

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Lesson Plan

All about the informative essay, view aligned standards, learning objectives.

Students will be able to identify the parts of an essay and generate ideas in their own graphic organizer.

Introduction

• Ask students to work with a partner or table group and think of the three most important things to do in order to be successful in school.
• Share answers and decide on three as a class. Write them on the board.
• Have students work together again and think of three details for each of the three ideas on the board.
• Share and write three details under each idea.
• Tell students that they just created an outline for an informative essay.
• Discuss possible topics for the essay. Examples might include: How to Succeed at School, Three Keys to Academic Success, and How to Rock Your Report Card.

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Strategies for Effective Lesson Planning

Stiliana milkova center for research on learning and teaching.

A lesson plan is the instructor’s road map of what students need to learn and how it will be done effectively during the class time. Before you plan your lesson, you will first need to identify the learning objectives for the class meeting.  Then, you can design appropriate learning activities and develop strategies to obtain feedback on student learning. A successful lesson plan addresses and integrates these three key components:

• Objectives for student learning
• Teaching/learning activities
• Strategies to check student understanding

Specifying concrete objectives for student learning will help you determine the kinds of teaching and learning activities you will use in class, while those activities will define how you will check whether the learning objectives have been accomplished (see Fig. 1).

Steps for Preparing a Lesson Plan

Below are six steps to guide you when you create your first lesson plans. Each step is accompanied by a set of questions meant to prompt reflection and aid you in designing your teaching and learning activities.

(1) Outline learning objectives

The first step is to determine what you want students to learn and be able to do at the end of class. To help you specify your objectives for student learning, answer the following questions:

• What is the topic of the lesson?
• What do I want students to learn?
• What do I want them to understand and be able to do at the end of class?
• What do I want them to take away from this particular lesson?

Once you outline the learning objectives for the class meeting, rank them in terms of their importance. This step will prepare you for managing class time and accomplishing the more important learning objectives in case you are pressed for time. Consider the following questions:

• What are the most important concepts, ideas, or skills I want students to be able to grasp and apply?
• Why are they important?
• If I ran out of time, which ones could not be omitted?
• And conversely, which ones could I skip if pressed for time?

(2) Develop the introduction

Now that you have your learning objectives in order of their importance, design the specific activities you will use to get students to understand and apply what they have learned. Because you will have a diverse body of students with different academic and personal experiences, they may already be familiar with the topic. That is why you might start with a question or activity to gauge students’ knowledge of the subject or possibly, their preconceived notions about it. For example, you can take a simple poll: “How many of you have heard of X? Raise your hand if you have.” You can also gather background information from your students prior to class by sending students an electronic survey or asking them to write comments on index cards. This additional information can help shape your introduction, learning activities, etc.  When you have an idea of the students’ familiarity with the topic, you will also have a sense of what to focus on.

Develop a creative introduction to the topic to stimulate interest and encourage thinking. You can use a variety of approaches to engage students (e.g., personal anecdote, historical event, thought-provoking dilemma, real-world example, short video clip, practical application, probing question, etc.). Consider the following questions when planning your introduction:

• How will I check whether students know anything about the topic or have any preconceived notions about it?
• What are some commonly held ideas (or possibly misconceptions) about this topic that students might be familiar with or might espouse?
• What will I do to introduce the topic?

 (3) Plan the specific learning activities (the main body of the lesson)

Prepare several different ways of explaining the material (real-life examples, analogies, visuals, etc.) to catch the attention of more students and appeal to different learning styles. As you plan your examples and activities, estimate how much time you will spend on each. Build in time for extended explanation or discussion, but also be prepared to move on quickly to different applications or problems, and to identify strategies that check for understanding. These questions would help you design the learning activities you will use:

• What will I do to explain the topic?
• What will I do to illustrate the topic in a different way?
• How can I engage students in the topic?
• What are some relevant real-life examples, analogies, or situations that can help students understand the topic?
• What will students need to do to help them understand the topic better?

(4) Plan to check for understanding

Now that you have explained the topic and illustrated it with different examples, you need to check for student understanding – how will you know that students are learning? Think about specific questions you can ask students in order to check for understanding, write them down, and then paraphrase them so that you are prepared to ask the questions in different ways. Try to predict the answers your questions will generate. Decide on whether you want students to respond orally or in writing. You can look at Strategies to Extend Student Thinking , http://www.crlt.umich.edu/gsis/P4_4.php to help you generate some ideas and you can also ask yourself these questions:

• What questions will I ask students to check for understanding?
• What will I have students do to demonstrate that they are following?
• Going back to my list of learning objectives, what activity can I have students do to check whether each of those has been accomplished?

An important strategy that will also help you with time management is to anticipate students’ questions. When planning your lesson, decide what kinds of questions will be productive for discussion and what questions might sidetrack the class. Think about and decide on the balance between covering content (accomplishing your learning objectives) and ensuring that students understand.

(5) Develop a conclusion and a preview

Go over the material covered in class by summarizing the main points of the lesson. You can do this in a number of ways: you can state the main points yourself (“Today we talked about…”), you can ask a student to help you summarize them, or you can even ask all students to write down on a piece of paper what they think were the main points of the lesson. You can review the students’ answers to gauge their understanding of the topic and then explain anything unclear the following class. Conclude the lesson not only by summarizing the main points, but also by previewing the next lesson. How does the topic relate to the one that’s coming? This preview will spur students’ interest and help them connect the different ideas within a larger context.

(6) Create a realistic timeline

GSIs know how easy it is to run out of time and not cover all of the many points they had planned to cover. A list of ten learning objectives is not realistic, so narrow down your list to the two or three key concepts, ideas, or skills you want students to learn. Instructors also agree that they often need to adjust their lesson plan during class depending on what the students need. Your list of prioritized learning objectives will help you make decisions on the spot and adjust your lesson plan as needed. Having additional examples or alternative activities will also allow you to be flexible. A realistic timeline will reflect your flexibility and readiness to adapt to the specific classroom environment. Here are some strategies for creating a realistic timeline:

• Estimate how much time each of the activities will take, then plan some extra time for each
• When you prepare your lesson plan, next to each activity indicate how much time you expect it will take
• Plan a few minutes at the end of class to answer any remaining questions and to sum up key points
• Plan an extra activity or discussion question in case you have time left
• Be flexible – be ready to adjust your lesson plan to students’ needs and focus on what seems to be more productive rather than sticking to your original plan

Presenting the Lesson Plan

Letting your students know what they will be learning and doing in class will help keep them more engaged and on track. You can share your lesson plan by writing a brief agenda on the board or telling students explicitly what they will be learning and doing in class. You can outline on the board or on a handout the learning objectives for the class. Providing a meaningful organization of the class time can help students not only remember better, but also follow your presentation and understand the rationale behind in-class activities. Having a clearly visible agenda (e.g., on the board) will also help you and students stay on track.

Reflecting on Your Lesson Plan

A lesson plan may not work as well as you had expected due to a number of extraneous circumstances. You should not get discouraged – it happens to even the most experienced teachers! Take a few minutes after each class to reflect on what worked well and why, and what you could have done differently. Identifying successful and less successful organization of class time and activities would make it easier to adjust to the contingencies of the classroom. For additional feedback on planning and managing class time, you can use the following resources: student feedback, peer observation, viewing a videotape of your teaching, and consultation with a staff member at CRLT (see also, Improving Your Teaching: Obtaining Feedback , http://www.crlt.umich.edu/gsis/P9_1.php and Early Feedback Form , http://www.crlt.umich.edu/gsis/earlyfeedback.pdf).

To be effective, the lesson plan does not have to be an exhaustive document that describes each and every possible classroom scenario. Nor does it have to anticipate each and every student’s response or question. Instead, it should provide you with a general outline of your teaching goals, learning objectives, and means to accomplish them. It is a reminder of what you want to do and how you want to do it. A productive lesson is not one in which everything goes exactly as planned, but one in which both students and instructors learn from each other.

Additional Resources

Video clips of GSIs at the University of Michigan actively engaging students in a practice teaching session: https://crlte.engin.umich.edu/engineering-gsi-videos/ 

Plan the First Day's Session: How to create to a lesson plan for the first day of class:  http://gsi.berkeley.edu/gsi-guide-contents/pre-semester-intro/first-day-plan/

Fink, D. L. (2005). Integrated course design. Manhattan, KS: The IDEA Center. Retrieved from https://www.ideaedu.org/idea_papers/integrated-course-design/

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Passenger Plane Crashes in Brazil, Killing 61 Onboard

The Brazilian authorities said no one survived the crash, outside São Paulo on Friday afternoon. The airline, VoePass, said the cause was unknown.

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By Jack Nicas Paulo Motoryn and Niraj Chokshi

Jack Nicas reported from Rio de Janeiro, Paulo Motoryn from Brasília and Niraj Chokshi from New York.

Above the small city of Vinhedo, Brazil, on Friday, a passenger plane was falling from the sky. Residents began filming.

Those videos show the horrifying moment when an 89-foot-long plane, carrying 61 people and slowly spinning in circles, plummeted to earth. A moment after the plane disappears from view near a gated community, an enormous black plume of smoke rises from the spot.

One video then shows a house on fire, a swimming pool full of debris and a group of men peering over a scene of carnage in a yard: a shredded fuselage, twisted metal and, several yards in front of the cockpit, a body.

VoePass Flight 2283 crashed Friday toward the end of a scheduled two-hour flight from Cascavel, Brazil, to São Paulo. VoePass, a small Brazilian airline, said all 57 passengers and four crew members died in the accident.

The airline and Brazilian officials said they did not know why the plane had crashed.

The plane, an ATR 72, had all systems operating correctly when it took off, the airline said. The pilots did not signal any emergency, officials said. The aircraft, a twin-engine turboprop plane, was built in 2010 and was in compliance with Brazilian regulations, they added.

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