Semi-detailed Lesson Plan (4A's) template with Guide and Example
The Semi-detailed Lesson Plan (4A's) template is a structured framework designed to facilitate
effective teaching by incorporating key elements: Activity, Analysis, Abstraction, and
Assessment.
The 4As of adult learning: Activity, Analysis, Abstraction, and Application. The constructivist
approach to teaching asserts that a Learner gains and builds knowledge through experience. It
recognizes that life experiences are rich resources for continued learning.
1. Activity: This section outlines the hands-on tasks or experiences students will engage in
during the lesson. It engages the brain through an energizer or brain teaser which has
procedures to be followed, and the expected duration.
2. Analysis: Following the activity, the analysis part prompts teachers to guide students in
understanding and reflecting on their experiences from the activity. It involves questioning
techniques, discussions, and group reflections to deepen comprehension.
3. Abstraction: In this segment, teachers help students abstract general principles or concepts
through explaining or discussing the content. It involves interaction to broader theoretical
concepts, principles, or real-world applications.
4. Assessment: The final part of the lesson plan focuses on assessing student learning and
understanding. It includes various assessment methods such as quizzes, presentations, or
projects aligned with the lesson objectives. Assessments should be designed to measure both
knowledge acquisition and application.
The 4As Lesson Plan and Experiential Learning Theory
The 4A’s framework is based on the Experiential Learning Theory proposed by David Kolb. Kolb’s
theory suggests that learning occurs through a cycle of concrete experience, reflective
observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. The 4A’s lesson plan aligns
with this theory by incorporating activities, analysis, abstraction, and application to facilitate a
holistic learning experience.
Here are the steps in a 4as lesson plan:
1. Activity:
The Activity phase serves as a foundation for student learning, building upon their existing
knowledge while providing clarity on what they will learn. Through engaging activities, students
gain a retrospective view of the topic and develop a sense of curiosity and interest. This phase
lays the groundwork for a meaningful learning journey.
Example:
I. Activity:
Begin the lesson by showing pictures of different objects and people to the students.
Engage the students in a group discussion where they describe the pictures using adjectives,
adverbs, etc. Encourage them to compare the objects or people based on size, height, age, etc.
2. Analysis:
The Analysis phase delves deeper into the lesson, encouraging students to process and classify
information. Teachers transition from a lecturing role to that of a facilitator, guiding students
through thought-provoking questions. By critically evaluating the validity of concepts, students
gain a wider perspective while drawing closer to the main topic. This phase encourages students
to think critically and refine their understanding.
Example:
II. Analysis:
Provide examples ___________
Ask the students to analyze the sentences/statements and identify ___________
Facilitate a class discussion where students share their observations and findings.
Pose questions to deepen their understanding, such as : (“What are the common suffixes used
to form comparative and superlative forms?” or “How do irregular adjectives change when
forming comparative and superlative forms?”)
3. Abstraction:
In the Abstraction phase, teachers focus entirely on the lesson, reinforcing students’ existing
knowledge while guiding them toward a deeper understanding. Through open-ended questions,
teachers help students internalize the importance of the lesson and its relevance to their lives.
By relating the content to real-world scenarios, students develop a sense of ownership and
appreciation for the subject matter.
III. Abstraction:
Example:
Guide the students to abstract the lesson’s main points and concepts.
Summarize the rules and patterns for forming comparative and superlative forms, emphasizing
the importance of using them accurately and appropriately in English.
Encourage students to think about real-life situations where they can apply these language
structures effectively.
4. Application:
The Application phase prompts students to apply their learning in practical ways. By considering
how they can utilize their newfound knowledge, students explore innovative ways to improve
and expand upon what they have learned. This phase encourages creativity, problem-solving,
and the transfer of knowledge to real-life situations.
Example:
Example (Comparatives and Superlatives):
IV. Application:
Provide practical tasks and activities where students can apply what they have learned. For
example, they could write comparative and superlative sentences about their classmates or
create a poster comparing different products or places.
Engage students in discussions or role-plays where they use comparative and superlative forms
to express opinions and preferences, or make comparisons.
Encourage students to reflect on how they can incorporate these language structures into their
everyday communication in English.
Role of the Teacher
To emphasize the effective implementation of the 4A’s framework, it is essential to facilitate
rather than simply deliver the lesson. As teachers, we aim to guide students through each
phase, allowing them to take ownership of their learning. It is crucial to strike a balance,
ensuring students remain engaged without overwhelming them. Furthermore, mastery of the
lesson by the teacher plays a vital role in creating a successful learning environment.
