Backward Design is a powerful planning model that flips traditional lesson planning on its head. Instead of starting with activities or content, it begins with the end in mind—clarifying what students should know, understand, and be able to do by the lesson’s conclusion.

1. What is Backward Design?

Developed by educational experts Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe, Backward Design focuses on outcome-based planning. It involves three key stages:

  • Identify Desired Results: Define clear learning goals and essential understandings.

  • Determine Acceptable Evidence: Decide how you will assess whether students have met the goals.

  • Plan Learning Experiences and Instruction: Design lessons and activities that lead students toward achieving the outcomes.

2. Why Use Backward Design?

  • Aligns instruction with learning goals to prevent “activity overload”

  • Ensures assessments measure meaningful understanding, not just rote memorization

  • Provides a clear roadmap that guides both teachers and students

3. Applying Backward Design in Your Classroom

Start by asking:

  • What should my students learn?

  • How will I know they’ve learned it?

  • What teaching and learning activities will best support their success?

From here, create assessments and plan lessons that directly target those goals.

✅ Pro Tip: Use Backward Design to integrate cross-disciplinary skills like critical thinking or collaboration into your core lessons for richer learning.