Lesson planner · classroom toolsLesson Plan Models
A lesson plan model is a fixed set of sections that shapes how a lesson is taught. Pick the one that matches your lesson, your program or your observer, then fill in its free template.
Free template for each model
Which lesson plan model should I use?
Short answer: use 5E for inquiry and science, Madeline Hunter or gradual release for teaching a new skill step by step, UDL when your class has a wide range of needs, SIOP when you teach English learners, and Understanding by Design when you plan a whole unit.
| Model | Best for | Core sections |
|---|---|---|
| 5E | Science and inquiry lessons | Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate |
| Madeline Hunter | Direct instruction of a skill | Objective, anticipatory set, input, modeling, check for understanding, guided practice, closure, independent practice |
| UDL | Classes with a wide range of needs | Goals, barriers, engagement, representation, action and expression |
| SIOP | English learners in content classes | Content and language objectives, building background, comprehensible input, interaction, review |
| edTPA | Student teachers completing edTPA | Central focus, academic language, supports, assessment |
| Understanding by Design | Units and big ideas | Desired results, evidence, learning plan |
| Danielson | Observations and evaluations | Domain 1 components 1a to 1f |
| ASCA | School counseling lessons | Mindsets & Behaviors standards, activity, plan for data |
| Gradual release | Any skill students will do alone | I do, We do, You do together, You do alone |
Every model above is built into the free lesson plan maker, along with gradual release (I do, We do, You do), a UK lesson plan, EYFS, ESL (PPP/TTT) and preschool formats. Switch between them at any time: what you've already typed is kept.
Do the models really differ?
Less than their names suggest. Almost every good lesson has a clear objective, a way in, teaching, practice, a check on learning and a close. The models differ in what they make you think hard about: 5E makes you hold back the explanation until students have explored; UDL makes you plan for barriers before they happen; SIOP makes language a goal alongside content; UbD makes you decide how you will assess before you plan activities.
If your school or program asks for a specific model, use it: observers look for its headings. If nobody minds, use the one that fits today's lesson. See the components of a lesson plan for what every plan needs whatever the model.
Frequently asked questions
What is a lesson plan model?
A lesson plan model is a set structure for planning and teaching a lesson, such as the 5E model or the Madeline Hunter model. Each one names the stages of the lesson and what should happen in each.
What is the most common lesson plan model?
In US schools the Madeline Hunter (direct instruction) structure is the most widely taught, and many district templates are based on it. The 5E model is the most common in science.
Can I mix lesson plan models?
Yes. Many teachers use a 5E structure with UDL options inside each stage, or add SIOP language objectives to any plan. The maker keeps your text when you switch formats, so you can try a few.
Which model is best for observations?
Use the one your evaluator uses. If your district evaluates with the Danielson Framework, the Danielson template shows evidence for each Domain 1 component.