Lesson Planning – A little goes a long way

Lesson plans can follow a simple format. They should be consistent with the components of direct instruction while having a realistic timeline. As you plan, allot a specific amount of time for each component. Plan for 5 minute breaks between components. Tutoring sessions should last between one and two hours, with a 10-minute break after an hour.

Pre-lesson activities

Activities should include a review of the last lesson and completed homework as well as a preview of the current lesson topic. A Warm-up activity helps to activate learners’ prior knowledge. All new vocabulary should be introduced.

Presentation

Modeling of new material should include examples of how you plan to present, explain, and model new skills and concepts.

Guided practice

Practice activities should be planned to provide you and the student with an informal assessment of how well the student understands the material.

Independent practice

These activities can be planned for the tutoring session or as homework.

Lesson closing

Summarize the lesson’s key points, have a Q&A to check for understanding, and provide a preview of the next lesson. The summary should include instructions for homework. You and the student should look over each section of the homework to ensure they understand what is being asked of them.

How to do Direct Instruction

To maximize instructional effectiveness, try the following:

  • Encourage students to share life experiences, situations, and perspectives
  • Establish a classroom climate of shared trust and one that values mutual respect and enhances learner self-esteem
  • Periodically revisit and readjust goals with the learners so that instruction always moves students toward goal completion
  • Offer instruction using a multi-sensory approach, i.e., appeal to as many modalities as possible—visual, auditory, tactile/kinesthetic
  • Provide instruction in small chunks, introducing new material only after previously introduced material has been mastered
  • Revisit and review previously mastered material from time to time so that students keep skills current

A few helpful resources:

More than a Native Speaker Lesson planning and Classroom Survival

ABE Tutor Manual – Waukegan Public Library