The secret to effective lesson plans (Hint:ASSURE)

I am studying to be an Elementary teacher and the most common remark I get from people is “It is so tedious to have to make a lesson plan for each subject you teach that day”. Sometimes it sounds like a lot but it is definitely an important part in the teaching process. Not only is a lesson plan beneficial for the teacher serving as a guide for things to run smoothly in an orderly fashion but it is also beneficial to the students as it is said that, “Students also feel that the lessons are sequenced properly”. In addition, “Having a good lesson plan will also increase confidence in the teacher; on the other hand, not having a plan will result in complete failure for both teacher and students” (VIA, 2015). A good lesson plan shows just how much time and effort a teacher puts into their lesson.

In regards to the lesson plan that I created, if there was anything I would change or add in, that would be having more interactive activities that I find is suitable for my students. Which will come with time because observation of what the students seem to like will be necessary for incorporating their interests into their learning process. Other than that, I still like the use of group work unless some students become reliant on others to complete work then that will be when changes will be made on that part.

My lesson was focused on math, specifically with comparison of data and inputting information to make bar graphs. With that said, I would do a follow-up just to see whether or not the students were able to retain what was learned and further move on with reading bar graphs.

The ASSURE lesson plan is a great template to follow in steps to create a lesson plan. Personally, there are not any components I feel are missing, I would just suggest to be very detailed with each component and to include every single detail to guarantee an effective outcome from the lesson given. The ASSURE model is definitely self explanatory, however Ed Forest adds that, “…it is good to follow a regimented guide to improve your teaching technique. Any effective teacher knows that the perfection of their technique does not come overnight, and there is always room for improvement” (Forest, 2016). 

A brighter future

Every one has the right to an equal education no matter the race, age, and ethnic background. This right also applies to those with disabilities. How you might ask? Through assistive technologies, which was made specifically for those with disabilities. Without assistive technologies, it would be difficult to try and provide the same and equal education that other students are able to receive. The clip, “EnablingDreams”, definitely portrayed just how helpful assistive technologies are for the teacher and the students as well.

            The Assistive Technology Industry Association, answers the two main questions that most people would be concerned about with assistive technologies. These two questions being, “What is it?” and “How is it funded?”. ATIT defines assistive technology as, “…[being] an item, piece of equipment, software or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities”. This piece of equipment can be as simple as a cardboard with fuzzy felt to act as communication board or high tech software such as computers, it all depends on the type of disability the student has. These assistive technologies are funded by various sources, again, depending on what is needed. The sources vary from, school organizations, government agencies, and private agencies as well. (ATIT)

            In the clip, “Enabling Dreams”, it displays how assistive technologies make it possible for students to be active participants in the teacher’s lesson plans. Specifically shown with the young students that were able to participate and communicate through the buttons that would say what they wanted it to. As a teacher, I would allow students to be apart of my lesson plan by getting them involved with other students in activities, for example, having other students engage and help them when needed and I would asses them with how well they respond to each activity. I have a family member who is deaf and assistive technology was extremely helpful in her case. It allowed her to communicate effectively with peers and teachers like other students were able to with their teachers.

            Jessica Millstone, editor of “Assistive technology Basics”, says that “Assistive technology can’t “cure” learning and attention issues, but it can help kids work around their challenges”. She adds that not all technologies are high tech and for the decision of what can work for a specific child can be discussed with the childs IEP or 504 plan.

            Overall, Assistive technologies can be the source towards a brighter future for children with disabilities. It will not eliminate the difficulties and obstacles but it will lessen them and allow students to be more interactive and involved in the classroom.