Understanding ULS lesson plans
Why lesson plans matter
ULS lesson plans are designed to reduce planning time while helping educators deliver high-quality, evidence-based instruction.
Each lesson plan combines instructional guidance, student materials and differentiation supports in one place, making it easier to meet the needs of diverse learners.
Learning objectives and lesson goals
Every lesson plan clearly identifies:
- Learning objectives
- Instructional targets
- Desired outcomes
These objectives help educators understand what students should know, do or demonstrate by the end of the lesson.
Instructional routines
ULS lesson plans include scripted instructional routines designed around evidence-based practices.
These routines help educators:
- Model new skills
- Provide guided practice
- Support student participation
- Build independence
The routines are designed to support classrooms with a wide range of learning needs and abilities.
Differentiated instruction
Every lesson plan includes differentiated supports to help students access the same learning objective at different levels.
This may include:
Level 1
Maximum support and participation-based activities.
Level 2
Supported activities with scaffolds and prompts.
Level 3
More independent practice and application.
This structure helps all students participate meaningfully in the same lesson.
Built-in supports and resources
Lesson plans include direct links to supporting materials and resources to save planning time.
Depending on the lesson, these may include:
- Student activities
- Visual supports
- Communication resources
- Assessment materials
- Related lesson content
Having resources embedded directly within the lesson helps educators focus on instruction rather than searching for materials.
Notes and accommodation suggestions
Additional notes throughout the lesson plan provide ideas for:
- Accommodations
- Modifications
- Engagement strategies
- Instructional adjustments
These suggestions help educators tailor instruction to meet individual student needs.
Extensions and follow-up activities
Many lesson plans include extension opportunities that help students:
- Apply learning in new contexts
- Make real-world connections
- Connect learning across subjects
- Reinforce key concepts
These activities can be used for enrichment, review or additional practice.
Key takeaways
- Lesson plans provide clear learning objectives
- Instructional routines support evidence-based teaching
- Differentiated tasks support varying levels of need
- Embedded resources reduce planning time
- Extensions help students connect learning beyond the lesson