Sheltered instruction is a teaching approach designed to help English learners acquire academic language and content knowledge in core subject areas. To effectively implement sheltered instruction, teachers need a well-structured lesson plan template that guides their instruction and provides a clear framework for student learning. This article presents a comprehensive sheltered instruction lesson plan template that teachers can use to create engaging and effective lessons.
Lesson Plan Structure
The sheltered instruction lesson plan template consists of several key components that work together to support student learning. These components include:
- Objectives: Clearly defined learning objectives that align with the content and language skills being taught.
- Input: Authentic or simplified text, audio, or video materials that provide students with comprehensible input on the target language and content.
- Interaction: Structured activities that allow students to interact with the input and apply their learning, such as group discussions, pair work, or role-play.
- Output: Opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding and use of the target language and content through writing, speaking, or other forms of assessment.
- Assessment: Ongoing formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress, provide feedback, and inform further instruction.
Implementation Strategies
To effectively implement the sheltered instruction lesson plan template, teachers should consider the following strategies:
- Contextualize learning: Connect new language and content to students’ prior knowledge and experiences.
- Scaffold instruction: Provide support and guidance to students as they develop their language and content skills.
- Use visuals and hands-on activities: Engage students through the use of images, charts, manipulatives, and other non-linguistic aids.
- Monitor student comprehension: Regularly check for understanding and adjust instruction as needed.
- Provide multiple opportunities for practice: Allow students to reinforce their learning through repeated exposure and opportunities to apply their skills.
Assessment and Reflection
Assessment plays a crucial role in the sheltered instruction lesson plan template. Teachers should incorporate formative and summative assessments throughout the lesson to monitor student progress and inform instruction. Formative assessments, such as questioning, observation, and exit tickets, provide ongoing feedback and help teachers identify areas where additional support is needed. Summative assessments, such as tests, projects, or essays, measure student learning outcomes and provide a more comprehensive evaluation of student achievement.
Reflection is also essential for effective sheltered instruction. Teachers should take time after each lesson to reflect on their teaching practices and student learning. This reflection can help teachers identify areas for improvement and ensure that they are meeting the needs of all learners. By regularly reflecting on their instruction and incorporating feedback from students, teachers can continuously improve their sheltered instruction lessons and enhance student outcomes.
