The Backward Mapping Lesson Plan, also known as Backward Design, is a planning method that is widely used in the field of education. This method of planning ensures that the learning outcomes are achieved through a series of deliberate and carefully planned steps. In this article, we will discuss the Backward Mapping Lesson Plan in detail, including its definition, benefits, and how to create a Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template.
What is Backward Mapping Lesson Plan?
The Backward Mapping Lesson Plan is a planning process that starts with the end in mind. It is a process of designing a lesson or a curriculum by starting with the desired learning outcomes, then working backward to develop a series of lessons and assessments that will lead to achieving those outcomes. In other words, it is a process of planning a lesson by first identifying what students should know and be able to do by the end of the lesson or unit.
Backward Design is a student-centered approach to planning that emphasizes the importance of aligning the learning objectives with the assessment tasks and instructional strategies. The Backward Mapping Lesson Plan ensures that the curriculum is well structured, and the desired learning outcomes are achieved through a series of carefully planned lessons and assessments.
Benefits of Backward Mapping Lesson Plan
The Backward Mapping Lesson Plan has several benefits for both teachers and students. Some of these benefits are:
- Ensures alignment between learning objectives, assessments, and instructional strategies
- Helps in identifying the important content and skills that students need to learn
- Provides a clear focus on the desired learning outcomes
- Facilitates effective instruction and assessment by providing a roadmap for planning and implementation
- Helps in identifying the learning gaps and addressing them through targeted instruction and assessment
Creating a Backward Mapping Lesson Plan Template
Creating a Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template involves three key steps: identifying the learning outcomes, developing assessments, and planning instruction.
Step 1: Identify the Learning Outcomes
The first step in creating a Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template is to identify the learning outcomes. The learning outcomes are the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that students should be able to demonstrate by the end of the lesson or unit. The learning outcomes should be specific, measurable, and achievable. Examples of learning outcomes include:
- Students will be able to identify the main characters in a story
- Students will be able to solve a given math problem using the appropriate formula
- Students will be able to write a persuasive essay using appropriate evidence
Step 2: Develop Assessments
The second step in creating a Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template is to develop assessments. The assessments should be designed to measure the extent to which the learning outcomes have been achieved. The assessments should be aligned with the learning outcomes and should be valid and reliable. Examples of assessments include:
- Multiple-choice questions to test knowledge
- Performance-based assessments such as presentations, projects, or essays to test skills
- Observations or checklists to test attitudes
Step 3: Plan Instruction
The third step in creating a Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template is to plan instruction. The instruction should be designed to help students achieve the learning outcomes. The instruction should be aligned with the assessments and should be engaging, meaningful, and challenging. Examples of instructional strategies include:
- Lectures, discussions, or presentations to introduce new information or concepts
- Hands-on activities or simulations to help students apply the information or concepts
- Collaborative learning or group work to promote social and emotional learning
Once the learning outcomes, assessments, and instructional strategies have been identified, the Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template can be created. The template should include the following components:
- Learning outcomes: a list of the specific, measurable, and achievable learning outcomes
- Assessments: a description of the assessments that will be used to measure the learning outcomes
- Instructional strategies: a list of the instructional strategies that will be used to help students achieve the learning outcomes
- Timeline: a timeline for implementing the lesson or unit
In conclusion, the Backward Mapping Lesson Plan is a planning process that starts with the desired learning outcomes and works backward to develop a series of lessons and assessments that will lead to achieving those outcomes. This method of planning ensures that the curriculum is well structured, and the desired learning outcomes are achieved through a series of carefully planned lessons and assessments. Creating a Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template involves identifying the learning outcomes, developing assessments, and planning instruction. By using the Backward Mapping Lesson Plan, teachers can ensure that their students are well-prepared to achieve their learning goals.
If you want to create a Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template for your classroom, make sure to follow the three key steps of identifying the learning outcomes, developing assessments, and planning instruction. By doing so, you can create a comprehensive and effective lesson plan that will help your students achieve their learning goals.
So, start creating your Backward Mapping Lesson Plan template today and see the difference it can make in your classroom!