I know a lot of you already do a lot of lesson planning, but when you’re new, it can be a little difficult figuring out where to start. Here are step by step instructions for lesson planning as well as a lesson plan template. To see examples of some of my lesson plans click here, here, or here. You may not need to be so structured every time, but it helps in the beginning. It also good to have a series of documents that you revise so you’re not re-inventing the wheel every time.
Step1: Topic
What do I want to make sure that I have time to talk about? What are the most important issues for me to cover?
Step 2: Audience
Who is my audience? What adaptations will they need? How long is their attention span per activity? Will I need to adjust the room?
Step 3: Goals & Objectives
What are my objectives? What do I hope participants will learn? (More than two or three goals and objectives may be unreasonable)
Step 4: Lesson Plan
Write the outline for your presentation and allot estimated time to each segment. Consider potential activates: focus writing, videos, lectures, questionnaires, stem sentences, drawing/art, responding to pictures, matching, sequencing, pro/con lists, continuums, attitude assessments, ice breakers, guided imagery, journals, role plays, case studies, stories/media, brainstorming, creating teaching materials, building models, myth/fact sheets, self assessments, thought bubbles and small groups (this is not an exhaustive list). Whatever you choose (1) make sure there is some variation (2) build your activities from more structured to less structured, (3) warm up your participants for sensitive topics, (4) and allow for participation through multiple modalities. You will probably run out of time so schedule the least important things last or know exactly what time you have to cut earlier activities off. It’s good to either over plan or have a few tricks up your sleeve in case one of your activities bomb or you run out of time.
Step 5: Practice and Coordinate
Practice and, if working with a partner, delegate facilitation responsibilities. Is the time frame realistic? Do I understand each activity? What can I cut if necessary?
Step 6: Materials
Gather any materials you will need. This list would include handouts, visual aids, flip chart, materials you’ve developed, ect.
Step 7: Arrive Early ![]( "sample lesson copy")
