Mapleton has identified nine research-based critical components that should be included in all lesson plans:
A lesson overview that includes how the particular lesson connects to and relates to previous and future lessons within the unit.
The specific resources and tools that will be used by teachers and students.
The high-level questions that students should be able to answer by the end of the lesson.
A learning target that is aligned to the lesson and unit outcomes, know/show chart, and pacing guide.
Specific, student-friendly success criteria that encompasses all the necessary components of the learning target.
Formative assessments that are aligned to the lesson's learning target and success criteria.
The tier 1, 2, & 3 vocabulary words that will be explicitly taught in the lesson.
A clearly defined gradual release of responsibility that includes instructional strategies and activities for each learning progression component:
Teacher connects new information to previous learning
Teacher previews & introduces new content/concept
Students practice and deepen understanding of new content/concept while teachers provide feedback
Students apply new content/concept while teachers provide feedback
Students synthesize, personalize, and/or reflect on their learning in relation to the learning target or unit
Specific strategies and activities for differentiating the content, process, and/or product to meet the diverse learning needs of all students (MLs, students with IEPs, students who need extensions, etc).