Ch 7 (1)

Introduction to Lesson Planning

  • Focuses on Chapter 7 of "Why Didn't I Learn This in College."

  • Importance of lesson plans, unit plans, and standards-based instruction.

  • A lesson plan refers to a single session related to an academic standard.

Lesson Plan vs. Unit Plan

  • Lesson Plan: A single session focusing on one academic standard.

  • Unit Plan: A collection of multiple lessons covering the same academic standard over several days.

  • Many topics require several lessons for thorough coverage.

Accessing Content Standards

  • Importance of regularly checking the most current content standards from the California Department of Education.

  • Differences in state standards: Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are uniform across states but can have additional state-specific standards.

  • Key content areas include:

    • English Language Arts

    • Mathematics

    • English Language Development

    • Career and Technical Education

    • Other subjects (Computer Science, Health Science, History, etc.)

Review of Literacy Standards

  • Emphasis on literacy standards across the curriculum, particularly for grades 3-5.

  • Overview of the PDF of the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts:

    • Introduction provides context for understanding standards.

    • Key components:

      • Key Ideas and Details

      • Craft and Structure

      • Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

      • Range of Reading and Text Complexity

Standards Breakdown

  • Reading Standards for Literature (RL): Focused on fictional texts, with grade-specific standards on key ideas and details, craft and structure, and more.

  • Reading Standards for Informational Text (RI): Focuses on nonfiction texts often encountered in subjects like history and science.

  • Foundational Skills (RF): Essential skills for grades K-2, including phonics and fluency.

  • Writing Standards (W): Outlines the expectations for narrative writing, organized by grade level.

  • Speaking and Listening Standards: Critical for all students, not just English Language Learners (ELLs).

  • Language Standards: Address grammar and conventions necessary for effective communication in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Unit Plan Example: Author Study - Dr. Seuss

  • Unit Duration: 5 weeks, culminating in Read Across America Day.

  • Focus Stories: The Lorax, Horton Hears a Who, and Oh, the Places You'll Go.

  • Learning Objectives: Students will engage in literacy activities with Dr. Seuss's works, utilizing graphic organizers, craftivities, and writing prompts.

  • Materials Required: Includes various texts, craft materials, and any additional items needed for activities.

Planning and Assessment

  • Main and Support Standards: Distinction between primary standards (major assessment goals) and support standards (secondary expectations that aid in student learning).

  • Essential Questions: Focus on messages, morals, and themes of the stories.

  • Support for Diverse Learners: Strategies include:

    • Visuals and graphic organizers

    • Modeling and scaffolding techniques

    • Purposeful partnering in group activities

    • Vocabulary support for ELLs

Creating an Engaging Environment

  • Importance of a well-managed classroom where students actively engage in discussions rather than completing worksheets silently.

  • Use of engaging scenarios to foster interest in readings.

  • Structuring lessons around reading comprehension activities and creative crafts to reinforce learning.

Conclusion

  • Successful lesson and unit planning involves aligning instruction with standards, incorporating strategies for diverse learners, and engaging students actively in their learning journey. Regularly revisiting and revising plans is essential for effective teaching.