I think the easiest and most engaging way to start a lesson is with a good open ended discussion question to get the neurons firing.
I typically write a word on the board, show a picture, show a video, and the students have to discuss/predict: (PRIOR LEARNING)
Retrieval Practice
What is the most important organ?
How do you make a baby?
What is Blood?
What is Fire?
Are Humans the geratest species?
Designed by Ross McGill, the 5 minute lesson plan has been my go-to method of planning my teaching.
Using this outline of a Lesson Plan really streamlines the planning process, focusing on what the students can do at home (Flipped) and what activities we can explore together in class.
Integrating IT is important
Virtual Simulations wherever practical applications aren't possible.
What did you learn today?
An example of my reflection wall that I used, so students can leave a question, a point of understanding, any misconceptions.
This allows me to check understanding and reflect on the lesson.
Student volunteer has to explain the lesson and other students think of a key word from the lesson, if their word is called, they sit down.
The object is to get all of the other students out.
Competing against each other to answer multiple choice questions based on the topic of the day