Lesson Planning is a behind the scenes art form.

I have been working on the results section of my dissertation and currently answering my research question on how teachers deliver developmentally appropriate instruction to middle school students during a block period. It seems the resounding answer is just three words: quality lesson planning. One of my favorite middle school gurus is Rick Wormeli who stated "extensive planning is essential for effective block schedule instruction." In his book Meet Me in the Middle, Wormeli discusses the challenges teachers face, but provides real examples to assist teachers with this large task called lesson planning. If you have ever planned a lesson, you know exactly how difficult it can be to make sure it is successful. I think Wormeli's take on the behind the scenes effort based on knowing your students and planning lessons that give all students access to the curriculum in a format that is engaging to them is the key to success.