Module 6: Lesson Planning for TESOL Teachers
Setting Learning Objectives
The most important part of any lesson plan is the learning objective. Without a clear objective, a lesson has no direction — and students leave without knowing what they learned.
What is a learning objective?
A learning objective describes exactly what students will be able to do by the end of the lesson. It is specific, measurable, and student-focused.
Weak vs strong objectives
The formula for a strong objective
"Students will be able to + verb + specific task or context" - "Students will be able to write a short formal email requesting information." - "Students will be able to describe their daily routine using the present simple tense." - "Students will be able to understand the main points of a short news report."
✓Why objectives matter
- They keep the lesson focused — every activity should connect to the objective
- They help you measure success — did students achieve the goal?
- They give students a clear sense of purpose — "By the end of this lesson, you will be able to..."
- They make lesson planning easier — once you know the goal, choosing activities becomes simple
Try This: Write the learning objective on the board at the start of every lesson. Tell students: "By the end of today, you will be able to..." At the end of the lesson, refer back to it. Ask students: "Can you do this now?" This simple habit transforms how students experience learning.