Learning Focused Lessons: What are the Components?

All of you know about the district's commitment to implementing the Max Thompson Learning Focused Lesson approach, and while many of us are engaged in the actual training process, perhaps you are wondering about what all of this looks like in practice. I wanted to spend some time and share with you some insight into what the lesson plan template for the Learning Focused Lessons (known as LFLs) actually looks like. Below is a picture of what the LFL template looks like. Check it out and take note of what its components are, the structure of it, and what it contains:

As you see, there are lots of elements that we already incorporate as teachers when we think about planning our lessons. However, it's always helpful to revisit and reflect upon our purposeful instructional practice. One thing that stands out to me is the purposeful use of the graphic organizer. Also, notice the summarizing strategy that is noted on the bottom of the page as well. Give students short, quick opportunities to summarize what they have learned during the lesson. It's not the same as the teacher summarizing the learning for students; it's students explaining to themselves and each other what they have learned.

Don't feel the rush to start using this right now. Everyone in the building is in different places with regards to this and UBD. Just think about the aspects of the template. What is it considering? What factors does it take into account when talking about student learning? Just good food for thought!