How do you write an ESL lesson plan?

By APTTI TEFL faculty · Updated 6 October 2026 · 2 min read

An ESL lesson plan states a clear aim, then sets out timed stages that move learners from understanding new language to using it. A common structure is PPP: Presentation, Practice, Production. Include the aim, learner level, materials, each stage with timing and interaction (teacher to class, pairs, groups), anticipated problems and how you will check understanding.

What this means in practice

Lesson planning is a core part of every TEFL course, and demo-lesson interviews usually ask for a written plan.

What goes in a lesson plan

aim: what learners will be able to do by the end
level and age of learners
materials and board plan
stages with timing and interaction pattern
anticipated problems and solutions
how you will check understanding and give feedback

PPP, ESA and TTT

PPP (Presentation, Practice, Production) suits new grammar or functions. ESA (Engage, Study, Activate) adds an engaging warm-up and is flexible in order. Test-Teach-Test starts with a task to see what learners already know. Choose the shape that fits your aim.

Writing a good aim

Make it observable: 'By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to ask and answer questions about daily routines using present simple.' Avoid aims such as 'learn the present simple', which you cannot see.

Common lesson-planning mistakes

aims that describe the activity, not what learners will be able to do
too much teacher talk and too little learner practice
no time planned for checking understanding
skipping freer practice because time runs out
no plan B for early finishers or a slow activity

Practical next steps

Write one clear, observable aim.
Choose a lead-in that creates interest.
Plan how you will show meaning and form.
Plan controlled then freer practice.
Add timing and interaction for each stage.
Note likely problems and your solutions.

ExampleFor a 40-minute A2 lesson on 'can' for ability, Suresh in Vijayawada planned a 5-minute picture lead-in, a 10-minute presentation using his own abilities, 10 minutes of pair practice with prompt cards, and a 12-minute 'find someone who' mingle.

What to keep in mind

A plan is a guide, not a script. Adjust it in class if learners need more time or are ready to move on.

Common follow-up questions

What is PPP in TEFL?

PPP stands for Presentation, Practice, Production, a three-stage lesson structure for new language.

How long should a lesson plan be?

One or two pages is typical for a 45–60 minute lesson.

What is the difference between PPP and TTT?

PPP presents language before practice; Test-Teach-Test starts with a task to find gaps, teaches what is missing, then tests again.

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