Candidates state what the central focus for the lesson. This is a very clear and specific focus and should connect with the content standard(s) listed. Typically, this section would be one sentence. The Central Focus could also be called a “goal.”
The following qualities will characterize the Central Focus:
Represents meaningful learning
Is a big learning concept
Is long-term (days, weeks, year)
Is NOT measurable
Is succinct
Examples:
Develop articulation skills
Enhance listening skills
Develop audiation skills
Expand repertoire (with comprehension)
There is so much to know about content standards that I’ve dedicated a page exclusively to this topic. Please see Content Standards.
Also known as rationale, this is where candidates should comment on how this lesson ties to previous learning or sets students up for future learning. They also describe any big ideas that students will have by the end of the lesson. If candidates want to include an essential question (from the Content Standards), that can be included here as well. Candidates may want to make connections to research here.
Understanding and applying learning objectives is so important that I’ve dedicated a page exclusively to this topic. Please see Learning Objectives.
This should look like a bulleted list of specific content or knowledge that comes from unpacking the standards. This list should be what students will come to know. Candidates need to avoid phrases like “learn how to...” or “know how to...” which creates an action or skill. In other words, this is a list of nouns.
This should look like a bulleted list of specific skills that come from unpacking the standards. In other words, this is a list of verbs.