Lesson planner · classroom toolsComponents of a Lesson Plan
The ten parts most lesson plans share, what each one is for, and what a good one looks like.
The core components of a lesson plan are: 1. learning objectives, 2. standards, 3. materials, 4. opening (hook or warm-up), 5. procedure (instruction and practice), 6. differentiation, 7. assessment, 8. closure, 9. homework or extension and 10. reflection.
1. Learning objectives
What students will be able to do by the end, with a measurable verb. Good: "Students will be able to identify the main idea of a nonfiction paragraph."
2. Standards
The standard or curriculum statement the objective comes from, by code or in words.
3. Materials and resources
Everything to prepare: texts, handouts, manipulatives, slides, technology.
4. Opening (anticipatory set, hook or warm-up)
Three to five minutes that focus attention and connect to prior learning.
5. Procedure
The heart of the lesson, step by step with timings: usually direct instruction or modeling, guided practice, then independent or group practice.
6. Differentiation
How you'll support students who need it, stretch those ready for more, and meet English learners' and IEP/504 needs.
7. Assessment
How you'll know whether students met the objective: questioning, observation, an exit ticket or a task.
8. Closure
Students summarize or show what they learned before the lesson ends.
9. Homework or extension
Optional practice or a challenge that builds on the lesson.
10. Reflection
After teaching: what worked, what to change, who needs a follow-up.
Every format in the lesson plan maker includes these, named in the way each model uses (for example "anticipatory set" in Madeline Hunter, "Engage" in 5E, "starter" and "plenary" in the UK lesson plan).
Frequently asked questions
What are the 5 main components of a lesson plan?
If you keep only five: the objective, materials, the procedure (activities with timings), the assessment and the closure.
What is the most important part of a lesson plan?
The learning objective, because every other part should serve it: activities lead to it and the assessment checks it.
What is an anticipatory set?
The opening of a lesson in the Madeline Hunter model: a short activity that focuses students and links to prior learning.