Language System: Flow in Lesson Plans

1. Clear goals are a vital component of good lessons because it gives the students a target to strive toward. These goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely (or SMART). If all of these attributes are present in the goal, flow is more likely to occur.

2. Immediate feedback is valuable so that the students can understand their learning right away and begin to change it as soon as possible, if necessary. This shows them what their strengths and challenges are and minimizes language fossilization and learning frustration.

3. Good lessons keep students focused on the present moment by being not too easy and not too hard; by providing a practical and relevant purpose; and by creating a positive, supportive classroom environment.

4. A good lesson can minimize the fear of failure even before it starts. It is important to discuss what the students believe will make them feel most comfortable and perhaps create a social contract or other icebreaker exercise to remind them of their unconscious thoughts on this matter. Once the teacher gets to know the students, she can tailor the lesson to those who are more or less outgoing/shy, gifted/challenged, communicators/non-communicators, etc along the lines of these class beliefs.

5. I believe this answer is the same as question #3.

6. An activity becomes an end in itself when the present moment is just as, or even more, rewarding than the future use of the lessons learned. This can mean it is fun, stimulating, engaging, surprising or eye-opening.