How to Create a Lesson Plan

Lesson planning might not be the flashiest part of teaching, but it’s one of the most important. Whether you’re a first-year teacher or a seasoned educator stepping into a new subject or grade level, having a solid plan sets the tone for a successful classroom experience.

In this Soliant guide, learn top tips from educators on how to create great lesson plans that aren’t just about what to teach, but how to teach it in a way that empowers your students.

What is the Objective of a Lesson Plan?

A lesson plan is a structured outline that guides educators through the teaching of a specific topic or concept. It covers what will be taught, how it will be delivered, and how success will be measured during a class session.

The primary objective of a lesson plan is to organize instruction in a way that promotes effective learning. It allows teachers to:

• Set clear learning objectives for students.
• Outline the content and activities needed to achieve those objectives.
• Plan assessments to measure student understanding.
• Ensure differentiation so that all learners, regardless of ability, can engage with and access the material.
• Manage class time efficiently.

Step-By-Step Guide to Creating a Lesson Plan

A well-crafted lesson plan should act as your roadmap for meeting curriculum standards, diverse student needs, and student learning goals. Here are the steps for how to create one:

Every lesson should include a way to assess if the objective was met. This doesn’t always mean a test—it can also look like quick quizzes, a Kahoot game, or a short writing assignment.

1. Define Your Learning Objectives

Start with the end in mind. What should students know, understand, or be able to do by the end of the lesson? Use measurable learning objectives that align with your state standards or district curriculum.

2. Consider Your Students

Tailor your lesson to your students’ ages, learning styles, IEP needs, and cultural backgrounds. Are there English language learners in your class? Students with accommodations? Consider how to differentiate instruction so every student can access the content.

3. Choose Your Materials & Resources

Gather everything you need to teach the lesson, such as textbooks or reading materials, technology tools, hands-on supplies, and printouts or worksheets.

4. Plan Your Introduction (The Hook)

Start strong with an engaging hook that sparks curiosity from your students. This might be a question, a short story, a quick video, or a class poll.

5. Outline the Main Instruction

This is where the bulk of learning happens. Depending on your teaching style, grade level, and subject, this could include lectures, class discussions or group work, or problem-solving activities.

6. Assess Understanding

Every lesson should include a way to assess if the objective was met. This doesn’t always mean a test—it can also look like quick quizzes, a Kahoot game, or a short writing assignment.

7. Reflect & Revise

After teaching the lesson, take a few minutes to reflect on what worked, what could be improved, and if your students met the learning goals. These insights are extremely valuable for adjusting future lessons to meet your students’ learning needs.

Sample Lesson Plan Template

Here’s a quick template of a lesson plan outline that you can use as a guide when creating one:

Grade Level/Subject:
Date:
Lesson Title:
Objective:
Standards:
Materials Needed:
Introduction (Hook):
Direct Instruction:
Guided Practice:
Independent Practice:
Assessment:
Differentiation:
Closing:
Reflection Notes (post-lesson):

Lesson Planning & Beyond: Explore More Resources for Educators

Whether you’re an experienced educator or just starting out on your path to teaching, Soliant has a variety of education career resources to support your journey. Find expert guides on crafting resumes, acceptable behavior in the classroom, school therapy programs, assistive technology in the classroom, and more!

Looking for your next school role? At Soliant, we connect passionate professionals to rewarding school opportunities nationwide. Explore openings today, including roles for paraprofessionals, general education teachers, special education teachers, teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing, and more.