Backward design, also known as Understanding by Design (UbD), is a planning approach where you start with desired learning outcomes and work backward to design instruction. The three stages are: 1) Identify desired results (what should students know/do), 2) Determine acceptable evidence (how will you know they learned it), 3) Plan learning experiences (what activities will get them there). This ensures alignment between objectives, assessments, and instruction.
Key Points
- Stage 1: Identify desired results and learning goals
- Stage 2: Determine acceptable evidence of learning
- Stage 3: Plan learning experiences and instruction
- Ensures tight alignment between goals and activities
- Prevents 'activity-oriented' planning without clear purpose
- Developed by Wiggins and McTighe
AI lesson plan generators like TeachMap AI incorporate backward design principles automatically. When you specify your learning objectives, the AI designs assessments and activities that directly support those goals, ensuring coherent, purposeful instruction.