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Lesson PlanningLesson planning can be an essential part in executing a well-run and informative English lesson. lesson planning serves several important functions. It acts as a time keeper in order to keep the class on schedule, it helps to set realistic goals for what you hope to accomplish in a certain period of time and it can act as a record for students who have missed class. It is also helpful while writing tests or reviewing material in the future. A well written lesson plan should be organized, simple and flexible. lesson plans should not be used as a script for an entire class but more as a guide to keep the class flowing. Keeping a lesson plan simple allows you to make quick references back to it while teaching a lesson. An organized lesson plan also helps speed up looking over it and figuring out what should come next in class. It is important to keep in mind that organization of lesson plans also includes continuity in structure of your plans. Writing a lesson plan in the same format will make writing the plans easier, allow for easier reference back to plans written previously and for using them in class. What is included in a lesson plan is up to individual preference but less experienced teachers usually have a more structured lesson plan that includes Learner Objectives, Personal Aims, Context, Teaching Aids, Anticipated Teacher and student Problems, Procedures, Phases, Timing, Interaction, Number of students and the Date and Time. Having included these areas in a lesson plan means the teacher is will be prepared for the lesson and help solve any problems that may arise. These areas help set the theme for the class, make a check list of materials that will be needed and will help with getting the class engaged in the material, helping them absorb it and getting them to use it. While planning a lesson it is important to remain flexible. A class had needs that may not always be anticipated while planning a lesson. Keeping a lesson plan simple allows for the teacher to change the lesson as needed. Adding back up activities is also a good idea to help out if there is more time than expected or if the students need more work in a certain area. Having variety and balance in a lesson helps to keep students entertained and allows them to learn in different ways. Revision of a lesson is also crucial in bettering you lesson plans. Making notes on the sides of lesson plans on what works, what was fun, what did not work and what the students had a hard time with can help in writing new lesson plans or editing old ones. This again refers back to flexibility of the lesson plans. Not everything planned will always work out and it is important that to build on previous experiences in the class room. Writing a good lesson plan may take some time, but in the long run it will help to better you as an educator. Organization, simplicity, balance and most importantly flexibility are all very important aspects needed in writing a successful lesson plan. Considering these things will help to make your teaching better and will help to improve the retention of your students.
