Overplanning rather than Underplanning
As a new instructor, only having a year of teaching experience, I have learned that planning and preparation is not only for the students, but it's for the instructor as well. It helps you to be more organized with your delivery, makes you seem more professional and competent, and it keeps the students busy and occupied for the full length of the class time. It is always best to overplan than underplan because students may finish an assignment or activity much sooner than expected. If this happens, instead of having to think on your toes about what to do/say next, you'll already have another assignment or activity ready for them, or you'll already be prepared to go to the next topic on your course outline.
Stephanie,
Good plan because you need to always have a backup plan in case the class doesn't go the way you had it laid out.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I always include at least 2-3 additional activities in each day's lesson plan. It has really helps me feel confident that my class will have full day for sure!
I always include at least 2-3 additional activities in my lesson plan just in case!
Karen,
I am with you. Over planning is the way to go. This way I know for sure I have sufficient material to fill the class session no matter what happens in terms of student discussions and input.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree with you, I feel much more prepared if I overplan rather than underplan. Sometimes I get done with a Chapter alot earlier than I planned. Having some chapter review questions so the students can see where their weaknesses are seems to be a good plan for me.
Donna,
Better too much than not enough.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Very true. And if you don't use this material today, it is ready for the next day.
Kristen,
As a new teacher I was there and did not like it at all. The 1 hour lecture I had planned so well ended up being 18 minutes and I didn't have anything to fall back on. Talk about a learning experience, this was one. Every since I have plenty of material and activities to cover any length of class I might encounter.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
yes I agree, having too much material is better than coming up short
Jessica,
Spoken like a veteran educator. Your advice is right on target and should be followed by all instructors. I have found over the years of teaching that by being prepared and ready to teach I look forward to the class and the interaction I am going to have with my students because I can be student centered in my approach as I have my instructional plan laid out and ready to go. This makes teaching fun and the reason I keep coming back year after year.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
