On my computer, I have a folder of unit plans, lesson plans, readings, activities, and assessments for the composition course that I teach at LCC International University. I have taught this course in both fall and spring semesters for many years. My well-organized documents give me confidence. Each of the 42 lessons of the semester are already planned for next fall.  

But, do my pre-made lesson plans make me a good teacher? 

What is good English language teaching? How can we conceptualize good teaching in a way that is both concrete and comprehensive? TESOL has articulated 6 principles of English Language teaching. These principles are broad enough to include K-12, adults, university classes, children, migrants, new comers, and English taught as foreign language (outside the USA). You can find information about all 6 principles here: https://www.the6principles.org/the-principles/ 

The fourth TESOL principle is: Adjust lesson delivery as needed. Good teachers walk into a classroom with a well-developed lesson plan. The teacher has designed a lesson with clear objectives, engaging activities, and elements of review.  

However, as I learn more about how students engage with my lessons, I must be willing to adapt my lessons. This year, I have been concentrating on upgrading my lessons for my composition classes. With some effort, I remember how my students reacted to ideas that I presented last semester. I ask myself; how can I adapt my lessons to truly fit the needs of my students this year?  

Over the spring semester,  

• I have adapted my assignments to more fully activate students’ motivation.  

• I have adjusted the metaphors that I use to describe abstract concepts.  

• I have changed my examples to better address key ideas.  

• I have swapped out introductions to lessons so students can see the logical paths to the lesson objectives.  

• I have created different class activities with more focus.  

The course remains the same. The learning objectives have not moved. The final assessment remains in place.  

As a lifelong learner, I will keep adjusting and adapting my lessons in order to offer better lessons for the students who are sitting in front of me today. I am not seeking perfection. I am seeking improvement. The fourth TESOL Principle is a reminder to learn, to improve, and to adjust. This week, I asked my students to evaluate my teaching at mid semester. I am eager to hear from them, if my adjustments are hitting the mark.

Note:  

TESOL International is a worldwide organization of English language teaching professionals and practitioners. They provide professional development workshops, seminars, and conferences at the state and national level. The national TESOL convention draws thousands of classrooms teachers, program directors, curriculum writers, university and graduate students, textbook authors, and researchers. TESOL offers scholarship, grants, and learning opportunities both face to face and online. TESOL representatives advocate for equality in education in the national, political agendas. Consider joining this dynamic organization today!  

Author: Robin Gingerich, Ph.D., MA TESOL Program Director at LCC International University.