ABSTRACT

In this chapter, the authors focus on essential aspects of lesson design which are common to many planning formats. They explore what it is that makes an effective lesson design, through seven principles. The principles are defined to have clarity about objectives, ensure structural alignment, use key ideas to structure a lesson, consider the role of the child, choice of examples, choice of resources and plan for classroom dialogue, and precise use of vocabulary. They recognise designing a lesson as a professional craft, so that our pedagogical choices are rooted in learning. These can sometimes be considered as ‘steps to success’ and contribute to independent learning. It is important that each of these criteria is measurable, so the child and the teacher can assess, preferably during the lesson, whether the objective was met or not.