Planning a journey takes skill. You must prepare thoroughly and take steps to ensure the journey is a success and everyone arrives safely.

1. The aims are the destination. Make sure you know where you want the students to arrive by the end of each lesson.

2. Your students’ current level is the start of the journey. Know each student, as they don’t start from the same place. Choose the most appropriate starting point for everyone.

3. Activities are the markers and signposts, pointing the way to the destination. Work backwards from the destination. How will students move to each activity? Which activity will build on the last and bring them closer to the aims? Which of these will encourage the most student interaction, engagement and autonomy?

4. How will you know when they’ve arrived? What can the students show you that will prove they’ve reached their goal?

5. The materials are the supplies. You’ll probably need support materials, but a journey with too much luggage is no fun for anyone.

6. Pick a student from the class. Imagine you’re in their shoes. Take two minutes to visualise the journey. Will it work? Will it be effective? Will you reach the destination happy, confident and having learned something?

Most importantly, remember that a map is not the journey. Minor deviations, inspired by the students and guided by you, are what make good lessons great.