It is the construct, content, development of the lesson, and appropriateness to the topic that indicate preparedness - not just the paper plan. Some students present very brief paper plans while the lesson demonstrates careful thought and organization. Materials and equipment are ready and well organized for efficiency. Objectives and purposes of the lesson are clearly presented and summarized - class movements are carefully orchestrated and managed. The lesson proceeds at an appropriate pace for the topic with a balance between teaching and pupil activity that allows for good pupil participation and task engagement.
Pacing is such that pupils have ample time to achieve completion and closure.
The teacher, not the bell, brings closure to the lesson and uses a variety of culminating activities that effectively draw out the main points and learning that accrued during the lesson. A variety of instructional techniques are witnessed over time - individual, whole class and cooperative learning strategies are evident. Individual differences in learning rate and style are addressed. Supervision, monitoring of progress and individual clarification are handled consistently and effectively. Questioning techniques encourage thinking, success, and extension of ideas.