What Is a Substitute Teacher Lesson Plan?

A substitute teacher lesson plan is an ordered sequence of lessons created by a substitute teacher. It is not unlike any other typical lesson plan. The only distinction is that it does not have to cover every aspect of the topic. However, in retrospect, it should include the duration of the substitution. The lesson plan includes a thorough progression of lessons and the materials that go with them. In addition to the coursework that will be assigned to students.

The relevance of creating a lesson plan stems from its importance to the learners. Lesson planning, according to cte.smu.edu.sg, is a road map for every instructor on what students should learn. Also, a guide on how it can be done effectively. This is true even if you work as a substitute teacher.

Responsibilities of Substitute Teachers

When a teacher or employee leaves, there is a whole that must be filled. Aside from drafting lesson plans, a substitute’s responsibilities are not dissimilar to those of a regular teacher. Some substitutes are new hires as well. As a result, their task is not only to cover for a teacher who is on leave, but to take their place. Being a sub has certain responsibilities. About five of them are listed below.

Follow the Lesson Plan: Some subs must adhere to the lesson plan set by the preceding teacher. Alternatively, they must develop a new student lesson plan. In either case, their goal is to follow an existing path to allow the student to learn continuously. When there is a break in between lessons, it is not conducive to learning. Not only may it get repetitive but skipping lessons could also be an issue. It creates a knowledge gap that students expect to be filled. That is why they are in school: to learn things they would not be able to learn otherwise. Making sure the sub is up to date on the newest lesson is part of their daily plan. And it’s better to devise a strategy for ongoing lessons rather than starting anything new. This would make teaching more comprehensive and efficient. Effective Teaching Method: The way pupils are taught has an impact on how they learn and assimilate new information. The technique of instruction has an impact on the absorption and comprehension of new knowledge. This is an important feature since students must constantly challenge themselves. Every lesson in higher education is a critical steppingstone toward a broader and more nuanced understanding. Adapting teaching methods is one of the suggestions for a substitute teacher lesson plan. Or practices that are effective for each of their students. But that also entails getting to know these kids. That’s what teaching is all about. You must grasp how children think and learn. More specifically, where their confusion and misunderstanding may have originated. It would aid in avoiding harming their progress by ineffectively educating them. This includes giving them homework and activities that help them get to know one another. At the same time, will broaden their knowledge. students tend to have different perspectives. So, rather of catering to or focusing on a single teaching style, it is preferable to establish several. Manage the Classroom: Managing students in a classroom is one of the most difficult aspects of being a teacher in general. Children, particularly, have proclivity for being rowdy. They are especially wary of unfamiliar faces. Respect must be earned over time. It’s the only way for them to listen without resorting to aggressive techniques. This could have the reverse effect of encouraging them to respect their teachers. Understanding the dynamics of each class could help you tackle the problem faster. This entails observing how they interact with one another, as well as how cliques and groupings form. It entails recognizing troublemakers as well as well-behaved students. It is not easy to create an environment in which everyone respects everyone else. There are numerous elements that could contribute to the placement of negative thoughts. That is something that should be avoided at all costs. Managing the classroom entails recognizing your students’ potential as well as their uncertainties. It includes fostering a happy environment and minimizing distractions. All the while, earning their respect and seeing you as their instructor. Not simply a temporary replacement, but someone they could look up. Creating Reports: Being a replacement necessitates the creation of reports for each student’s development. It is something that the original teacher must be made aware of. That way, when they return, they can catch up on their students’ progress. Substitutes might also approach these teachers for recommendations and advice. Each student’s assessment and progress bar should be included in their student reports. Alternatively, highlighting specific behaviors and places for improvement. Of course, it is possible that the task will be difficult. Substitutes are occasionally required to oversee more than one class. That entails creating lesson plans and presenting every day. However, when assigning grades and arranging activities, a student’s progress should be considered. It aids in the development of a more enjoyable lesson that appeals to practically everyone in the classroom. Helping pupils who are struggling is always preferable to ignoring them. Grading Schoolwork: Grading schoolwork is part of the job of a substitute teacher. Homework and classwork are also included. This covers grading student projects. However, such activities must be reported to their permanent teacher. Every teacher has their own grading system. The permanent teacher’s method is the finest solution in this case. It would be more efficient and require less explanation when the teacher returns. Schoolwork must be graded in a methodical and non-biased manner. At the same time, there should be a set of criteria on which the sub can base on. School projects, for example, have different standards than homework. A class record including student grades is required for any substitute.

Benefits of Making a Substitute Teacher Lesson Plan

It is always preferable for anyone to plan. It is beneficial in many ways and provides solutions when problems arise. A plan also allows for a thorough grasp of a prospective problem. As well as its consequences or possible responses. Making a lesson plan is part of a teacher’s job description. It makes no difference whether they are permanent or temporary.

Identify Learning Goals: Every semester or period at school has a learning objective for the students. Every teacher’s goal is to assist students in achieving these goals. Lesson planning aids in the creation of that objective in advance. Making a well-thought-out plan should lead to that outcome. Every time a lesson concludes, there should be a learning goal, no matter how short substitutes work. It is easier to educate when you have a mental picture of what you expect the result to be. A lesson plan is a step in that direction. These learning objectives should be the driving force behind the content of a lesson plan. As well as the ultimate purpose of each class. When a teacher has a goal in mind, it is easier to chart a course. Provides Direction: Lesson plans serve as a road map that directs students to their desired destination. It is a pre-planned student progression plan. And the substitute teacher might just refer to their lesson plan from time to time. They could track their progress and estimate how long it would take to attain their objective. It serves as both a reference and a guide. Making a lesson plan, rather than winging it and relying on students, is a proactive practice. If a teacher truly wishes to connect and teach, they should not become disoriented. It could be difficult to substitute in the middle of a lesson. Making a lesson plan is equivalent to taking a deep breath. It helps reduce the pressure to do well. Instead, it provides a clear framework for where learning should go. Most importantly, how to successfully arrive there. Preparation: Preparation is always required for any type of education. This is because professors should be able to answer queries. And students are inquisitive beings. They would ask whatever they could think of. And they would assume that their professors would know the right answer. As a result, providing ambiguous responses is counterproductive. It will not only confuse the receiver, but it may also cause the students to lose trust in you. When preparing a lesson for a class on a specific day, it is a good idea to consult the lesson plan. A substitute teacher’s resources come from their own proactive conduct. Preparing for the lesson ahead of time allows for more successful teaching. It could aid in the preparation of instructional materials and the anticipation of any inquiries. Being a teacher is like being on a game show. Curious hands can appear at any time. Creates a Timeline: Aside from the pressure to perform effectively, there is also the pressure to complete all tasks on time. Teachers and substitutes are subjected to this stress. There is always a goal, whether it is per semester or per month. There is a concept in every subject that students should know by the end. So, any lesson plans for high school substitute teachers help to build that schedule. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the overall goals, it is easier to split and conquer them. It’s also not good for students to be overburdened with knowledge. It’s not a good way to learn. As a result, the lesson plan teaches every teacher how to break down a lesson. And how to design a suitable timeline for each project and course. Alternatively, how the lesson should advance in terms of knowledge.  Specifically, how to connect new and old learning. It must appear seamless and interesting to students. It’s one way to capture their attention. Offers Opportunity: Substituting is always challenging. It’s not easy, and panic is a valid reaction. Making a lesson plan allows you to plan and take a breather. It allows you to observe everything from a different angle. This is extremely beneficial for developing new teaching approaches or creating engaging teaching materials. It also provides an opportunity for substitute teachers to acquire confidence in teaching that specific class. It is an opportunity for them to enhance and develop on their teaching. It can serve as a reminder of earlier efforts. As a result, it can also be used as a reference while making modifications. Making a lesson plan is a great idea.

Steps On Making a Substitute Teacher Lesson Plan

A substitute teacher is not required to develop a plan from the outset. They simply need to cover the lessons that will be taught during their stay. Their replacement suggests that the permanent teacher will return. As a reason, they might just take over courses and begin from there. And here’s how to go about it.

  • 1. Check the Permanent Teacher’s Progress

    If the replacement teacher begins in the middle of the school year, it is best to first assess the teacher’s progress. It would be pointless to design a lesson plan when the majority of the lessons have already been covered. It’s unnecessary and repetitive. As a result, a sub could double-check the original teacher’s lesson plan. They could also inquire about their progress with the teacher. That way, they may start planning their lessons from there.

  • 2. Identify Learning Goals

    It is critical that the replacement instructor identify the learning goal for the period of their stay. It can vary depending on the issue. When there is a goal in mind, it is also easier to compose the contents of the lesson plan. They may, once again, check the permanent teacher’s lesson plan. They may only need to make a minor adjustment to make things work better for them. However, students must be able to recognize the objectives of each class session.

  • 3. Plan Learning Activities

    A wide range of activities are involved in learning activities. It could be a school project, homework, or course work. Making instructional resources for use in the classroom is one of them. To achieve the learning goal, there should be a progression of activities that aid in its realization. Planning activities also entails developing a grading criterion. These learning activities must be both instructive and engaging.

  • 4. Create a Sequence and Timeline

    It is critical to develop a lesson delivery sequence. This would also aid in the creation of a timeline. The expansion of information is an important part of learning. As an example, fundamentals must be taught before moving on to more advanced topics. As a result, the actual progress should be reflected in the lesson plan. From simple through intermediate to a more complex idea. Then, design a comprehensive timeline to do that.

FAQS

Why Is it Important to Create a Substitute Teacher Lesson Plan?

It is critical to develop a lesson plan since it can aid in the planning of activities for what students need to learn. It assists any teacher in anticipating what the lesson will entail. Because this may entail creating learning materials ahead of time or preparing learning activities. A lesson plan created by a sub teacher can assist guide how lessons are taught. Or devise new and effective methods of teaching.

How Much Time Do Substitute Teachers Work?

Substitute teachers work in the same manner as regular teachers. They could work from Mondays to Fridays for a total of 7-8 hours. It would almost definitely be determined by their contract with the school. Which would be established by what the school need at the time.

How Do You Get a Job as a Substitute Teacher?

A bachelor’s degree is required to work as a substitute teacher. A substitute teaching license may also be required. That criterion would have to be determined by the regulations in place in certain regions. A substitute teacher must also submit an application to the school and meet all of the requirements.

A substitute teacher lesson plan pdf includes what lesson must be taught in accordance with the needs of the learners. Making a lesson plan is essential for determining how to deliver and educate successfully. And you can get started by downloading a substitute teacher lesson plan template! Get it now!