Lesson Planning
How do I plan my lessons? Well...I don't really. Instead, I plan comprehensive units that reinforce learning throughout. I am intentional about every ounce of energy I ask students to put into the class. This means every assignment has a clear objective to meet the learning goals for the unit.
How do I plan?
Intentionally
Backwards Unit Planning
In practicing backward design, all lessons are planned as parts of a comprehensive unit. This allows for the spiraling of content, which reinforces learning throughout the unit.
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Each day has a clear objective to help meet the unit goals. I collect materials for each topic on a master document using hyperlinks to make planning each day a breeze!
(This has also made it significantly easier to share resources in an organized manner when we get new PLC members on the team. No more digging through folders!)
Flipped Classroom
For the past two academic years, I have taught AP Psychology using a flipped classroom format. Students watch video lectures at home and come to class to student-centered lessons. Classtime is now dedicated to discussions and application assignments instead of lectures.
Benefits from a Flipped Classroom
1. Differentiation - students are able to take notes and digest the material at their own pace.
2. Student-Centered Lessons - Students come into class with questions and prior knowledge about the content. This allows us to focus on what they really need and are interested in.
3. Growth Mindset- Students feel encouraged by each other when facing challenges in our risk-taking classroom. They can see when others are also challenged and are significantly less likely to turn to cheat on assignments.
4. Critical Thinking - Class time is used to dig deeper into content instead of simply introducing it. Students practice application and critical thinking through assignments, labs, and discussions.
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