10 Things You Should Never Do When Creating a Lesson Plan

We've all been there: staring at a blank template, juggling curriculum demands, student needs and the ticking clock. Lesson planning is an art form, a science and sometimes, a true test of endurance. While there's no single "perfect" way to plan every lesson, there are definitely some common pitfalls that can derail even the best intentions. Avoiding these "never-dos" can save you time, boost student engagement and bring more joy back to your teaching.

 

The "Never-Dos"

1.      Never Plan in Isolation from Your Students:

a.      Why: A lesson plan is for your students, not just for the syllabus. Ignoring their prior knowledge, interests or current needs leads to disengagement.

b.      Instead: Start with quick check-ins, assess current understanding and let student curiosity guide your "hooks."

 

2.      Never Skip the "Why":

a.      Why: If you don't know the core purpose or enduring understanding of a lesson, your students certainly won't. This leads to aimless activities.

b.      Instead: Clearly define your learning objectives and essential questions. What should students know, understand and be able to do by the end?

 

3.      Never Over-Cram Your Time:

a.      Why: We often overestimate how much we can cover. Rushing through content means less time for depth, questions and processing, leaving students feeling overwhelmed, not enlightened.

b.      Instead: Be realistic. Prioritize quality over quantity. Build in buffers for unexpected tangents or deeper discussions.

 

4.      Never Forget Differentiation:

a.      Why: Classrooms are diverse. A one-size-fits-all lesson leaves some students bored (too easy) and others frustrated (too hard).

b.      Instead: Plan for varying entry points, support strategies and extension activities. How can all learners access, engage with and be challenged by the material?

 

5.      Never Design Activities Without a Clear Purpose:

a.      Why: Filling time with "busy work" because it looks good on paper or is a convenient worksheet achieves nothing more than keeping hands occupied.

b.      Instead: Every activity should directly serve a learning objective. Ask yourself: "What will students learn or do to demonstrate understanding through this?"

 

6.      Never Neglect Assessment for Learning:

a.      Why: If you only assess at the end, you miss crucial opportunities to adjust your teaching during the lesson.

b.      Instead: Integrate quick, formative checks throughout the lesson (e.g., exit tickets, thumbs up/down, think-pair-share) to gauge understanding and pivot if needed.

 

7.      Never Rely Solely on Lecture:

a.      Why: The human brain isn't designed for passive reception for extended periods. Lecturing alone often leads to information overload and low retention.

b.      Instead: Mix it up! Incorporate discussions, hands-on tasks, movement breaks, peer collaboration and technology to activate different learning pathways.

 

8.      Never Forget the "Hook" and the "Close":

a.      Why: How you start and end a lesson significantly impacts engagement and retention. A weak opening fails to capture attention; a weak close misses the chance to consolidate learning.

b.      Instead: Plan an engaging start that sparks curiosity and a strong closing that summarises, reflects or sets up the next lesson.

 

9.      Never Be Afraid to Deviate (Slightly!):

a.      Why: Sometimes, the most powerful learning moments come from unexpected questions or spontaneous student interest. Sticking rigidly to a plan can stifle these opportunities.

b.      Instead: Be prepared, but be flexible. See your plan as a guide, not a straightjacket. Know your objectives, and if a "teachable moment" arises, embrace it.

 

10. Never Underestimate the Power of Your Own Energy:

a.      Why: If you're not excited or confident about your lesson, your students will pick up on that. Your enthusiasm is contagious.

b.      Instead: Connect with the material yourself. Find what excites you about it. Plan lessons you genuinely believe will be impactful and fun – your energy will follow.

 

Conclusion

Lesson planning can be a powerful tool for creating impactful, engaging learning experiences. By sidestepping these common pitfalls, you're not just saving yourself stress – you're building a more dynamic, responsive and joyful classroom for everyone.

Which "never-do" resonates most with you?