Lesson planner · classroom toolsLesson Plan Format
What a standard lesson plan format looks like, the most common alternatives, and how to choose. Every format here is built into the free maker.
The standard lesson plan format
The standard lesson plan format has a header (title, subject, grade, date, length), then objectives, standards, materials, opening, procedure with timings, differentiation, assessment and closure, with optional homework and reflection.
| Section | What to write |
|---|---|
| Header | Lesson title, subject, grade, date, length |
| Objectives | "Students will be able to…" with a measurable verb |
| Standards | Codes or curriculum statements |
| Materials | What to prepare |
| Opening | Hook or warm-up, 3 to 5 minutes |
| Procedure | Steps with minutes: teach, guided practice, independent practice |
| Differentiation | Support, extension, English learners, accommodations |
| Assessment | How you'll check the objective |
| Closure | How students sum up the learning |
Other formats and when to use them
- 5E: inquiry and science.
- Madeline Hunter and gradual release: direct teaching of a skill.
- UDL: classes with a wide range of needs.
- SIOP and ESL (PPP/TTT): English learners.
- UbD: units and big ideas.
- edTPA and Danielson: student teaching and evaluations.
- UK lesson plan and EYFS: schools in England.
- ASCA: school counselors. Preschool: early childhood.
In the lesson plan maker, switching format keeps what you've written, so you can try a few.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard lesson plan format?
A header, then objectives, standards, materials, an opening, a timed procedure, differentiation, assessment and closure.
Is there one correct lesson plan format?
No. Schools, districts and programs set their own. Use the one you're asked for, or the one that fits the lesson.
Can I switch formats after I start writing?
Yes. In the maker, switching formats keeps your text; sections that don't exist in the new format are kept and reappear if you switch back.