Lesson Planning: What is Required?

Summary

This educational video script outlines 12 essential components for effective lesson planning. It emphasizes the importance of including a clear title, date, lesson objectives (SMART goals), standards alignment, a structured lesson plan, assessments, homework, cross-curricular standards, differentiation, technology integration, writing components, and career skills. The script stresses the necessity of these elements to prepare students for standardized tests, technological advancements, and future careers, offering a holistic approach to education.

Takeaways

• 📝 **Title**: Lesson plans should start with the course subject, grade-level, and teacher's name clearly stated at the top.
• 📅 **Date**: Including the date is crucial to avoid using outdated lesson plans.
• 🎯 **Lesson Objective**: Each lesson should have a SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results-focused, Time-bound) learning goal visible to students and administrators.
• 📚 **Standards**: Lesson plans must align with state standards to prepare students for standardized tests.
• 📈 **Lesson Plan Structure**: A complete lesson should have a clear beginning, middle, and end with activities and events sequenced.
• 📊 **Assessment**: Every lesson objective and its aligned standard must be assessed to gauge student comprehension.
• 🏡 **Homework**: Homework is necessary and should be specific with clear instructions on what to do.
• 🌐 **Cross-Curricular Standards**: Incorporate standards from other subjects like English language arts when relevant.
• 👥 **Differentiation**: Great teachers differentiate instruction for various student needs, which requires additional planning and effort.
• 💻 **Technology**: Where possible, integrate technology into lesson plans to prepare students for a technological world.
• ✍️ **Written Component**: Encourage writing skills as they are transferable and beneficial across disciplines.
• 💼 **Career Skills**: Teachers should instill career-ready practices to prepare students for future employment.

Q & A

What is the first component required in lesson planning?

The first component required in lesson planning is the title, which should include the course subject, grade-level, and the teacher's name.

Why is the date important in a lesson plan?

The date is important because it ensures that teachers are using current lesson plans and not outdated ones, which could indicate a lack of planning.

What should a SMART lesson objective include?

A SMART lesson objective should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results-focused, and Time-bound.

Why is it important to post learning goals in the classroom?

Learning goals should be posted for both students and administrators to view, ensuring transparency and alignment with educational standards.

How does tying lesson plans to state standards benefit students?

Tying lesson plans to state standards is important because it prepares students for standardized tests, which they will eventually take.

What should the structure of a lesson plan include?

A lesson plan should include a beginning, middle, and ending, with a sequence of activities and events clearly outlined.

What are some examples of assessments that can be used in a lesson?

Assessments can range from quick formative assessments like exit tickets to more comprehensive unit assessments.

Why is homework considered necessary in lesson planning?

Homework is necessary as it provides students with additional practice and reinforces the material taught in class.

How can cross-curricular standards be incorporated into lesson planning?

Cross-curricular standards can be incorporated by including standards from subjects like English-language arts when they are relevant to the lesson content.

What is the role of differentiation in lesson planning?

Differentiation in lesson planning involves tailoring instruction to meet the diverse needs of students, including those with disabilities and gifted students.

Why is technology integration important in lesson planning?

Technology integration is important to prepare students for the technological world and to enhance their learning experiences.

How can writing be incorporated into different subjects, such as math?

Writing can be incorporated into different subjects by having students write out steps to solving problems or by including open-ended questions in assessments.

What is the significance of including career skills and career-ready practices in lesson planning?

Including career skills and career-ready practices in lesson planning helps prepare students for their future careers and life outside of school.