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Meet Lisa!
Lisa holds both MATESL and MSLIS degrees and is certified in grades 5-12 English/Language Arts and K-12 ESL and library/media. She has 10 years of experience working in academic libraries, primarily in instructional services, as well as more than 15 years of experience as a public school teacher in grades 4-10. If you're looking for help with school related research topics, finding classroom resources, developing lesson plans, or aligning your activities to state standards, email her today!
Lesson Planning
Lesson planning is one of the most challenging and important activities you will do as a teacher. A well-prepared lesson plan engages students in learning and minimizes disruption in the classroom. It keeps students and teachers accountable for learning and allows teachers to maintain focus on the goals and purpose of the class so that they can work more efficiently and confidently.
Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) Resources
- Evidence-Based Instructional Practices (EBIPs)EBIPs are required by law (ESSA) to ensure that lessons are effective at producing results and improving student outcomes.
- KY Academic Standards (KAS)State standards outline student learning expectations and drive classroom instruction in all Kentucky schools.
- Model Curriculum FrameworkThe Model Curriculum Framework (MCF), per KRS 158.6451, provides guidance to schools and districts in implementing research-based practices that support the use of standards to ensure all students achieve at high levels.
- Standards Implementation GuidesResources available from the Kentucky Department of Education to support standards implementation in schools.
Working with Standards
- Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)This federal law guides public school decision making by focusing on college and career readiness for all students.
- Aligning Standards to Curriculum & Assessment“Alignment is the process of ensuring that the specified curriculum is consistent with enabling students to reach the milestones outlined in the standards” (CSAI, 2019, p.1).
- Common Core State Standards (CCSS)CCSS focus on college and career readiness and have been adopted by many states in the U.S.
Be aware that academic standards vary by state. If you plan to teach in another state, you can find that state’s standards on that state's department of education website.
Navigator - Fayette County Public Schools
- FCPS Curriculum ResourcesIncludes FCPS district curriculum outlined by subject and grade level.
Frameworks for Lesson Planning
- Danielson's Framework for TeachingThe Framework for Teaching (FFT) was designed to enhance professional practice. It is currently the preferred format in all FCPS settings.
- The Hunter ModelAn "oldie but goodie" structure for planning effective lessons.
- Rosenshine's Principles of InstructionResearch-based strategies teachers can use as they plan lessons to increase student learning and performance.
- PPAT Lesson Plan Template (Word)Download, edit, and save.
- PPAT Lesson Plan Template (Google)Just open, make a copy, and use!
Aligning Standards, Objectives and Assessments
- Learning Intentions & Success CriteriaWhat is it students should know and be able to do as a result of this lesson and how will you know?
Other things to consider when lesson planning
Free Online Teaching Resources
- CK12Provides free access to high quality educational content across all subjects and grade levels.
- OER CommonsOER Commons is a public digital library of open educational resources. Explore, create, and collaborate with educators around the world to improve curriculum.
- OpenSciEdNext Generation Science Standards-aligned instructional materials.
- PBS Learning (KET)KET and PBS have curated FREE, curriculum-aligned videos, interactives, lesson plans, and more for teachers like you.
- Read Write Thinkfrom NCTE