How to create substitute teacher plans in 15 minutes with AI

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence | Thursday, December 7, 2023

How to create substitute teacher plans in 15 minutes with AI

Need quick substitute teacher plans? AI-powered tools can help. Here's how you can create sub lesson plans in 15 minutes (so you can go back to bed).


We've all had those days, you wake up sick with no warning and you know you need to stay home and rest.

Ah, but you're a teacher. You can't just call in sick and go back to bed. Your job doesn't work like that. You have to have something prepared for your students to do for the day. So you have two options.

Option 1: Pop some DayQuil and go in and struggle through the day.

Option 2: Get up and prepare a day of plans for a substitute.

What do most of us choose? Option 1 because it's easier to just go in than spend the whole morning prepping for a sub. It's not the healthiest option for anyone but unfortunately that is how it works when you're a teacher.

But what if it wasn't?

We've talked about AI saving us time and this is one way it can not only save us time but it can help us be happier and healthier too.

Below, you'll find two sets of sub plans -- for a 4th grade class and for a high school English class -- created quickly with digital tools powered by AI.

Create sub plans in 15 minutes with AI

Step 1: Use Bing Chat (Copilot) to create an outline of the day for your substitute.

If you already have a general schedule that can be attached you might not need this step. However it takes just a minute to add your details into the prompt below and generate a quick outline for your sub. This can be the first page of your sub plans to give your guest teacher an overview of your day. 

Example Prompt: Write a substitute teaching plan for my (grade) class. I will attach lesson plans and activities to the plans on subsequent pages. We are studying (topic), (topic), (topic), and (topic). If they finish early students may (activity), (activity) or (activity). Include a greeting and a place to insert my information.

My schedule is:

School begins at: Time
Time: Subject
Time: Subject
Time: Subject
Time: Subject
Time: Subject
Time: Subject
Time: Subject
Time: Subject
Time: Dismissal

Example: 4th Grade Substitute Outline 

Example prompt entered into Bing Chat (Copilot):

Write a substitute teaching plan for my 4th grade class. I will attach lesson plans and activities to the plans on subsequent pages. We are studying the California gold rush, electricity (specifically conductors and insulators), opinion writing, and comparing two fractions with different numerators and different denominators. In PE we are doing a unit on basketball. If they finish early students may read, draw quietly, or complete any unfinished work. Include a greeting and a place to insert my information.


My schedule is
8:00 Morning Routine
8:15 Math
9:00 Recess
9:30 Language Arts
10:30 PE
11:30 Lunch
12:30 Science
1:30 History/Social Studies
2:30 Dismissal

Answer from Bing Chat: Sure, here’s a draft of your substitute teaching plan:

Substitute Teacher Information:

  • Name: [Insert Name]
  • Contact Information: [Insert Contact Information]

Daily Schedule and Lesson Plan:

  1. 8:00 - Morning Routine: Start the day by greeting the students and taking attendance. Review the rules and expectations for the day.

  2. 8:15 - Math: The students are currently learning about comparing two fractions with different numerators and different denominators. Use the attached lesson plan and activities to guide the lesson.

  3. 9:00 - Recess: Supervise the students during recess and ensure they are safe and respectful to each other.

  4. 9:30 - Language Arts: The focus is on opinion writing. Guide the students through the process of forming an opinion and supporting it with reasons and examples.

  5. 10:30 - PE: The students are doing a unit on basketball. Follow the attached PE lesson plan to guide the activities.

  6. 11:30 - Lunch: Supervise the students during lunch and ensure they are safe and respectful to each other.

  7. 12:30 - Science: The students are studying electricity, specifically conductors and insulators. Use the attached lesson plan and activities to guide the lesson.

  8. 1:30 - History/Social Studies: The students are studying the California gold rush. Use the attached lesson plan and activities to guide the lesson.

  9. 2:30 - Dismissal: Ensure all students are dismissed safely and according to the school’s dismissal procedures.

Early Finishers: If students finish their work early, they may read, draw quietly, or complete any unfinished work.

Please feel free to adjust this plan as needed based on the students’ needs and progress throughout the day. Thank you for your dedication to our students’ learning!

Example: 10th Grade English Substitute Outline 

Example prompt entered into Bing Chat (Copilot):

Write a substitute teaching plan for my high school English classes. I will attach lesson plans and activities to the plans on subsequent pages. In 10th grade English, we are reading chapter 4 from Animal Farm by George Orwell and doing related activities. In 9th grade English, students are completing a final analysis of Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. During prep, the substitute teacher can relax or help grade the Animal Farm activities that students turned in. During homeroom, the sub should supervise students as they work on work from other classes. In all classes, the resources students need are posted in our learning management system. The sub should emphasize that students may use their cell phones to listen to music while they work but for nothing else. Other classroom rules and procedures will be attached. If students finish early, they can work on work from other classes, read, or access sites in our "extra free time" list. Include a greeting and a place to insert my information.

My schedule is:
8:15 English 10
9:10 English 10
10:05 English 9
11:00 English 10
11:55 Lunch
12:30 Homeroom
1:05 English 9
2:00 Prep
2:55 English 9

Answer from Bing Chat:

Hello! Thank you for entrusting me with your high school English classes. I have prepared a substitute teaching plan for your classes based on the information you provided. Please find the plan below:

TimeClassActivity
8:15-9:10 AMEnglish 10Read chapter 4 from Animal Farm by George Orwell and discuss related activities.
9:10-10:05 AMEnglish 10Read chapter 4 from Animal Farm by George Orwell and discuss related activities.
10:05-11:00 AMEnglish 9Students will complete a final analysis of Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck.
11:00-11:55 AMEnglish 10Read chapter 4 from Animal Farm by George Orwell and discuss related activities.
11:55 AM-12:30 PMLunch-
12:30-1:05 PMHomeroomSupervise students as they work on work from other classes.
1:05-2:00 PMEnglish 9Students will complete a final analysis of Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck.
2:00-2:55 PMPrepRelax or help grade the Animal Farm activities that students turned in.
2:55-3:50 PMEnglish 9Students will complete a final analysis of Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck.

Please note that all the resources students need are posted in your learning management system. The students are allowed to use their cell phones to listen to music while they work, but for nothing else. Other classroom rules and procedures will be attached.

If students finish early, they can work on work from other classes, read, or access sites in your “extra free time” list.

I hope this plan meets your requirements. If you have any further questions or concerns, please let me know. Thank you!

Step 2: Use MagicSchool.ai tools to create activities for each subject or class

There are lots of great AI tools out there and you can certainly swap out other tools for the ones below. However if we are talking about making sub plans in a flash the using one app for everything will save you even more precious time.

Why MagicSchool.ai?

About: MagicSchool.ai empowers teachers to do the tasks they need to do -- important tasks -- in less time. The AI that drives MagicSchool helps teachers to plan lessons, differentiate, write assessments, write IEPs, communicate clearly, and more.

How it works: MagicSchool.ai has more than 40 "teacher tools," or custom-trained AI bots to do specific tasks for you. It generates "educational content that is original, aligned to standards, and customized for your students." It also helps you translate content to 25+ languages and level texts to students' lexile.

Pricing and terms: MagicSchool.ai is free for educators. Schools and districts can sign up for the AI Innovators Program, which includes training, dedicated support, and customization.

Check it out: MagicSchool.ai

For these sub plans we chose a few tools to create these quick lesson plans. These tools generate content quickly and with the Ask Raina chatbot and Question generator features built right in we can easily create lesson plans or extensions to the content.

You can click on each of the tools below to go directly to them. In the tool click "See an Exemplar" to view what the tool can do or watch the video below to see what MagicSchool AI can do.


https://app.magicschool.ai/tools/informational-text-generator


Activity: Warm up or bell ringer for morning routine or beginning of class (4th grade)

Tool: Quote of the Day Generator

Example Prompt: (Grade level) Quotes about: Being responsible even when no one is looking

Exemplar: 4th Grade Quotes about: Being responsible when no one is looking

"Responsibility is not only the thing you are supposed to do, but also the thing you are expected to do when no one is watching." - Joyce Meyer

"Character is doing the right thing when nobody's looking. There are too many people who think that the only thing that's right is to get by, and the only thing that's wrong is to get caught." - J.C. Watts

"Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody's going to know whether you did it or not." - Oprah Winfrey

 

Subject: 4th Grade Math / Activity: Story problems based on students interests. 

Tool: Math Story Word Prompts Generator + Ask Raina

Prompt: You will enter in your grade level, number of questions you want and what your students are interested in (examples: Beyonce concert, baseball, Roblox,)

Ask Raina: Create a lesson plan for (standard) using the above story prompts as the modeled and independent practice problems.

Example: 4th Grade: Comparing fractions in Roblox

Grade Level: 4th

Number of Questions: 10

Standard: Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.

Story topic: Roblox

1. Ethan and Emma are playing a Roblox game where they have to collect gems. Ethan collects 3/8 of the gems in the game, while Emma collects 5/12 of the gems. Who collected more gems, Ethan or Emma?

2. In Roblox, Lily has 7/10 of a virtual currency called "Robux," while Noah has 4/5 of the same currency. Who has more Robux, Lily or Noah?

3. Ava and Benjamin are competing in a Roblox obstacle course. Ava completes 2/3 of the course, while Benjamin completes 3/4 of the course. Who completes a larger fraction of the obstacle course, Ava or Benjamin?

4. Mia and Oliver are trading virtual pets in Roblox. Mia offers 1/4 of her pets, while Oliver offers 2/5 of his pets. Whose offer represents a greater fraction of their total pets, Mia or Oliver?

5. In a Roblox fashion game, Sophia designs outfits using different patterns. She uses 1/6 of the total patterns available, and Alex uses 1/3 of the patterns. Who uses a larger fraction of the patterns, Sophia or Alex?

6. In Roblox, Liam has 3/5 of his game time remaining, while Isabella has 4/7 of her game time remaining. Who has more game time remaining, Liam or Isabella?

7. In a Roblox building game, Caleb constructs 2/9 of a castle, while Zoe constructs 5/12 of the same castle. Who builds a larger fraction of the castle, Caleb or Zoe?

8. In Roblox, Noah has collected 3/8 of the coins needed to unlock a special item, while Mia has collected 4/9 of the same coins. Who has collected a greater fraction of the required coins, Noah or Mia?

9. In a Roblox racing game, Ethan completes 3/4 of a lap, while Emma completes 2/5 of the same lap. Who completes a larger fraction of the lap, Ethan or Emma?

10. Lily and Oliver are playing a Roblox puzzle game. Lily solves 3/10 of the puzzles, while Oliver solves 7/20 of the puzzles. Who solves a larger fraction of the puzzles, Lily or Oliver?


Ask Raina: Create a lesson plan for comparing two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model. Use the above story problems as modeled and independent practice problems.


Lesson Plan: Comparing Fractions in Roblox

Grade Level: 4th or 5th grade

Objective: Students will be able to compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. They will recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Students will record the results of comparisons with symbols >, =, or <, and justify their conclusions using visual fraction models.

Materials:
- Roblox fraction comparison worksheet (with the prompts from the text)
- Fraction manipulatives (optional)
- Whiteboard or chart paper
- Markers

Procedure:

1. Introduction (5 minutes)
- Begin the lesson by asking the students if they have ever played Roblox or any online games. Allow a brief discussion.
- Explain that today, they will be using Roblox scenarios to practice comparing fractions.
- Review the concept of fractions and remind students that fractions represent parts of a whole.

2. Whole Group Activity (10 minutes)
- Present the first prompt from the text: "Ethan collects 3/8 of the gems in the game, while Emma collects 5/12 of the gems. Who collected more gems, Ethan or Emma?"
- Ask for volunteers to share their answers and reasoning.
- Use a visual fraction model (e.g., fraction manipulatives or drawing on the whiteboard) to represent the fractions and compare them.
- Record the comparison using the symbols >, =, or < on the whiteboard or chart paper.
- Discuss the correct answer and justification.

3. Guided Practice (15 minutes)
- Distribute the Roblox fraction comparison worksheet to each student.
- In pairs or small groups, have students work through the remaining prompts from the text.
- Encourage students to use visual fraction models to compare the fractions and record their answers using the symbols >, =, or <.
- Circulate the room to provide support and guidance as needed.
- After completing each prompt, discuss the answers as a class and ensure students understand the reasoning behind their conclusions.

4. Independent Practice (10 minutes)
- Have students complete two additional fraction comparison problems on the back of their worksheet.
- Encourage students to use the strategies they have learned to compare the fractions and justify their answers.
- Collect the worksheets for assessment purposes.

5. Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
- Ask a few students to share their answers and reasoning for the additional problems.
- Recap the lesson by emphasizing the importance of comparing fractions with the same whole and justifying conclusions using visual fraction models.
- Provide positive feedback and praise for students' efforts.

Extension Activity:
- Challenge students to create their own Roblox fraction comparison scenarios and share them with the class. They can write the prompts and draw visual fraction models to represent the fractions. Other students can then solve the problems and compare the fractions.

 

Subject: 4th Grade Language Arts / Activity: Opinion Writing

Tool: Exemplar & Non-Exemplar  + Ask Raina

Prompt: You will enter in your grade level, standard or topic, length and assignment prompt (example: write an opinion piece about your favorite sport and why you think it's the best).

After the prompt has been generated use the "Ask Raina" button: Create a lesson plan on (subject/topic) where students will... Example: Create a lesson plan on opinion writing where students will write about their favorite sport and why it's the best. Use the above Exemplar & Non-Exemplars as materials for the lesson.

Example: 4th Grade: Opinion Writing- The Best Sport

Informational Text Generator

Grade Level: 4th Grade

Standard or Topic : Opinion Writing

Length: 3 paragraphs

Assignment Prompt: Write an opinion piece about your favorite sport and why you think it's the best.


Exemplary Response:

Title: Soccer - The Best Sport Ever!

Paragraph 1: Introduction
Soccer is my favorite sport and I believe it's the best sport ever. It's a game that brings people together and makes you feel like you're part of a team. I have been playing soccer since I was five years old and every time I step onto the field, I feel a rush of excitement. Whether it's playing with friends or watching professional games, soccer always brings me joy.

Paragraph 2: Skills and Strategy
One of the reasons I love soccer is because it requires skill and strategy. It's not just about kicking the ball and running around. You need to know how to control the ball, pass to your teammates, and score goals. It takes practice and dedication to improve these skills. Soccer also teaches you to think quickly and make split-second decisions on the field. It's a sport that challenges both your body and mind.

Paragraph 3: Teamwork and Friendship
Another reason why soccer is the best sport is because it promotes teamwork and friendship. When you play soccer, you have to work together with your teammates to win the game. You learn how to communicate, support each other, and trust your teammates. I have made some of my closest friends through soccer. We encourage each other, celebrate victories together, and learn from our mistakes. Soccer has taught me the value of teamwork and the importance of building strong relationships.

In conclusion, soccer is the best sport because it combines skill, strategy, teamwork, and friendship. It's a sport that brings people together and provides endless joy. Whether I'm playing or watching, soccer will always have a special place in my heart.

Non-exemplary Response:

Title: Soccer - It's Cool!

Paragraph 1: Introduction
I like soccer because it's cool. It's a fun sport to play and watch. I started playing when I was little and it's been great.

Paragraph 2: Kicking and Running
Soccer is all about kicking the ball and running around. It's easy to play and anyone can do it. You just need to kick the ball and try to score goals. It's fun to run fast on the field.

Paragraph 3: Playing with Friends
I like playing soccer with my friends. We have fun and laugh a lot. We sometimes win and sometimes lose, but it's okay. Soccer is fun when you play with friends.

In conclusion, soccer is cool because it's fun to play and watch. It's easy to learn and you can play with your friends. Soccer is a great sport.

========================================================================================


Ask Raina: Create a lesson plan on opinion writing where students will write their own opinion piece on what sport or activity they believe is best using the above response as an exemplar.


Title: Writing an Opinion Piece: Soccer - The Best Sport Ever!

Objective: Students will be able to write a persuasive opinion piece expressing their favorite sport and why they believe it is the best.

Materials:
- Exemplary Response: Soccer - The Best Sport Ever!
- Writing paper
- Pencils or pens

Lesson Plan:

1. Introduction (5 minutes):
- Begin the lesson by asking students about their favorite sports and what they like about them.
- Explain that today, they will be writing an opinion piece about their favorite sport and why they believe it is the best.
- Show the students the exemplary response, "Soccer - The Best Sport Ever!" and briefly discuss the main points and structure of the opinion piece.

2. Brainstorming (10 minutes):
- Have students brainstorm ideas for their own opinion piece about their favorite sport.
- Encourage them to think about specific reasons why they believe their sport is the best and any personal experiences they have had related to the sport.
- Provide a graphic organizer or a list format for students to organize their thoughts.

3. Writing the Opinion Piece (20 minutes):
- Instruct students to use their brainstorming ideas to write their opinion piece about their favorite sport.
- Remind them to include an introduction, body paragraphs with supporting reasons, and a conclusion.
- Emphasize the importance of using persuasive language and providing evidence to support their opinions.
- Circulate around the classroom to provide guidance and support as students write.

4. Peer Review (10 minutes):
- Pair students up and have them exchange their opinion pieces.
- Instruct students to read their partner's opinion piece and provide feedback using a peer review checklist.
- Encourage students to give constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement.

5. Revising and Editing (10 minutes):
- Instruct students to revise and edit their opinion pieces based on the feedback they received from their peers.
- Remind them to check for spelling, grammar, and sentence structure errors.
- Encourage students to make their writing more persuasive by adding specific examples and strong vocabulary.

6. Sharing and Reflection (5 minutes):
- Give students an opportunity to share their opinion pieces with the class, either by reading them aloud or displaying them on a bulletin board.
- Lead a brief discussion where students can reflect on the writing process and share what they learned about persuasive writing.

Extension Activity:
- Have students create visual aids, such as posters or slideshows, to accompany their opinion pieces and enhance their persuasive arguments.
- Organize a class debate where students can present and defend their favorite sports against opposing opinions.

Subject: 4th Grade PE / Activity: Basketball

Tool: Coach's Sport Practice Generator

Prompt: You will enter in your grade level, sport, length of practice and additional optimizations (example: Include warm-ups and cool down. Focus on dribbling and shooting.)

Example: 4th Grade Basketball Drills

Coach's Sport Practice Generator

Grade Level: 4th Grade

Sport: Basketball

Length: 60 minutes

Additional Customization: Include warm-ups and cool down. Focus on dribbling and shooting.


Basketball Practice Plan for 4th Grade Students:

Title: Dribbling and Shooting Skills Development

Practice Plan:
1. Warm-up (10 minutes):
- Begin with a light jog around the court to get the blood flowing.
- Followed by dynamic stretches such as arm circles, high knees, and lunges.
- Finish with a few minutes of light dribbling to warm-up the hands.

2. Dribbling Drills (20 minutes):
- Station 1: Dribbling Obstacle Course - Set up cones or markers in a zigzag pattern and have players dribble through them, focusing on control and speed.
- Station 2: Dribble Tag - Divide the players into pairs. One player is "it" and tries to tag the other players while dribbling. The tagged player becomes "it."
- Station 3: Partner Dribbling - Players pair up and practice passing the ball back and forth while dribbling. Encourage them to use both hands.

3. Shooting Drills (20 minutes):
- Station 1: Form Shooting - Teach proper shooting technique by emphasizing the correct hand placement, arm extension, and follow-through. Players practice shooting close to the basket.
- Station 2: Shooting Around the World - Set up multiple shooting spots around the court. Players take turns shooting from each spot and must make a certain number of shots before moving to the next spot.
- Station 3: 3-Point Shooting - Players take turns shooting from the 3-point line, focusing on their form and accuracy.

4. Cool Down (10 minutes):
- End the practice with static stretches to help prevent muscle soreness.
- Encourage players to hydrate and provide a brief talk about the importance of cooling down and taking care of their bodies.

Note: Adjust the difficulty and intensity of drills based on the skill level of the players. Always prioritize safety and provide encouragement and positive reinforcement throughout the practice.

Subject: 4th Grade Science / Activity: Conductors and Insulators Read and Discuss

Tool: Academic Content Generator + Question Generator

Prompt: You will enter in your grade level, text length, content type (example: Textbook page) , topic (example: An informational article about electricity and conductors and insulators) and any additional criteria.

After the prompt has been generated use the "? Questions" button: Create free response questions based on the text.

Example: 4th Grade: Science Lesson: Conductors and Insulators

Academic Content Generator

Grade Level: 4th Grade

Text Length: 1 pages

Content Type: Textbook Page

Topic: An informational article about electricity and conductors and insulators.

Additional Criteria: None


An Informational Article about Electricity and Conductors and Insulators (Textbook Page)

Electricity is a powerful force that powers many of the devices we use every day. It is used to light up our homes, run our appliances, and even charge our electronic devices. But have you ever wondered how electricity travels from one place to another?

To understand how electricity works, we need to know about conductors and insulators. A conductor is a material that allows electricity to flow through it easily. Some examples of conductors are metals like copper and aluminum. These materials have free electrons that can move easily, allowing the electric current to pass through.

On the other hand, an insulator is a material that does not allow electricity to flow through it easily. Insulators are used to protect us from electric shocks. Some common insulators include rubber, plastic, and wood. These materials have tightly bound electrons that do not move easily, preventing the flow of electric current.

Now, let's take a closer look at how electricity travels through a conductor. When a source of electricity, such as a battery, is connected to a conductor, the electrons in the conductor start to move. This movement creates a flow of electric current. The electrons move from the negative terminal of the battery to the positive terminal, creating a complete circuit.

Imagine a river flowing through a pipe. The pipe acts as a conductor, allowing the water to flow from one end to the other. Similarly, a conductor allows the flow of electrons, creating an electric current.

But what happens when we introduce an insulator into the circuit? Let's say we have a wire made of copper, a good conductor, and we wrap it with a layer of rubber, an insulator. The rubber prevents the electrons from flowing through the wire. This interruption in the flow of electrons is called a break in the circuit.

Conductors and insulators play a crucial role in our daily lives. They help us understand how electricity works and how we can use it safely. By knowing which materials are conductors and insulators, we can make informed choices when handling electricity and designing electrical circuits.

So, the next time you turn on a light switch or charge your phone, remember the importance of conductors and insulators in making it all possible. Electricity is a fascinating force, and understanding its behavior can empower us to use it wisely and safely.

Remember, always stay curious and keep exploring the wonders of science!


========================================================================================


Question Generator: Free Response


1. What is the role of conductors in allowing electricity to flow?
2. Provide examples of materials that are good conductors of electricity.
3. How do insulators protect us from electric shocks?
4. Explain how the flow of electrons is interrupted when an insulator is introduced into a circuit.
5. Why is it important to understand the behavior of electricity and the role of conductors and insulators in using it safely?

Subject: 4th Grade History / Activity: Read and Respond: The California Gold Rush

Tool: Informational Text Generator+ Ask Raina

Prompt: You will enter in your grade level, informational text type, text length, length and topic (example: The California gold rush. Include dates of important events).

After the prompt has been generated use the "Ask Raina" button: Create a writing prompt for (grade level) based on the generated text above.

Example: 4th Grade: The California Gold Rush

Informational Text Generator

Grade Level: 4th Grade

Informational Text Type: Literary Nonfiction

Length: 3 pages

Topic: The California gold rush. Include dates of important events


The California Gold Rush (Literary Nonfiction)

In the mid-1800s, a significant event took place in the history of the United States - the California Gold Rush. It all began in 1848 when gold was discovered at Sutter's Mill in Coloma, California. This discovery sparked a frenzy that would bring thousands of people from all over the world to seek their fortunes in the golden hills of California.

News of the gold discovery spread like wildfire, reaching the far corners of the country and beyond. People from all walks of life, including farmers, merchants, and even doctors, dropped everything and embarked on a journey to the West. They were known as "forty-niners" because most of them arrived in California in 1849.

The journey to California was no easy feat. Many traveled for months, enduring harsh conditions and facing numerous challenges along the way. They crossed treacherous mountains, braved scorching deserts, and navigated dangerous rivers. Some traveled by land, while others sailed around Cape Horn or took the treacherous journey through the Panama isthmus.

As the prospectors made their way to California, they had dreams of striking it rich and finding gold. However, the reality was often different. Most of the gold had already been panned from the rivers and streams near Sutter's Mill by the time the majority of the forty-niners arrived. Nonetheless, they remained determined and began searching for gold in other areas.

Mining camps sprung up all over the state, with names like Sacramento, San Francisco, and Stockton becoming synonymous with the gold rush. These camps were often rough and lawless, as people from different backgrounds and cultures clashed in their pursuit of wealth. However, they also brought about a sense of community and camaraderie among the miners.

The California Gold Rush had a profound impact on the development of California and the United States as a whole. The population of California exploded, with people from all over the world flocking to the state in search of gold. This influx of people led to the rapid growth of cities and towns, as well as the development of infrastructure such as roads and railways.

The gold rush also had a lasting impact on the economy. While many individuals did not strike it rich, businesses thrived as they provided goods and services to the miners. The abundance of gold in California also helped finance the growth of the nation, as it provided much-needed capital for investment and development.

Although the gold rush brought prosperity to some, it also had devastating consequences for others. The influx of settlers led to conflicts with Native American tribes who had long inhabited the land. Additionally, the environmental impact of mining took a toll on the landscape, with rivers being polluted and forests being destroyed.

As time went on, the excitement of the gold rush faded, but its legacy remained. The California Gold Rush is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who sought their fortunes in the untamed West. It is a chapter in American history that teaches us about the pursuit of dreams, the challenges of frontier life, and the complex consequences of human actions.

So, the next time you hear about the California Gold Rush, remember the brave men and women who ventured into the unknown in search of gold and a better life. Their stories remind us of the power of ambition and the impact of historical events on our society.

========================================================================================


Ask Raina: Create a writing prompt for 4th graders based on the text generated above..


Writing Prompt: Imagine you are a "forty-niner" during the California Gold Rush. Write a journal entry describing your journey to California, the challenges you faced along the way, and your experiences in the mining camps. What did you hope to find? How did you feel when you realized most of the gold had already been found? Reflect on the lasting impact of the gold rush on the development of California and the United States.

Subject: 10th Grade English / Activity: Text Analysis of Animal Farm

Tool: Text Analysis Assignment Generator

Prompt: Choose 10th grade as the grade level. Copy/paste the full text of the chapter into the input text. 

Example: 4th Grade: The California Gold Rush

Text Analysis Assignment Generator

Grade Level: 10th Grade

Input Text: Copy/paste Chapter 4 from Animal Farm


Writing Prompt:
In George Orwell's Animal Farm, the animals on the farm manage to successfully rebel against their human oppressors. Analyze the impact of the animals' rebellion on the surrounding farms and the wider countryside. Use evidence from the text to support your analysis.

Writing Prompt Text Dependent Questions:
1. How did the news of the rebellion on Animal Farm spread to the neighboring farms?
2. How did the other farmers initially react to the rebellion?
3. What tactics did Mr. Frederick and Mr. Pilkington use to undermine the animals' rebellion?
4. How did the rebellion on Animal Farm affect the behavior of animals on other farms?
5. How did the song "Beasts of England" contribute to the spread of rebellion?

Answer for Writing Prompt:
The rebellion on Animal Farm had a significant impact on the surrounding farms and the wider countryside. The news of the rebellion spread through the pigeons sent out by Snowball and Napoleon, who told the animals on neighboring farms about the rebellion and taught them the song "Beasts of England." This caused a wave of rebelliousness to run through the countryside, with animals on other farms becoming more unruly and defiant. Additionally, the other farmers, Mr. Frederick and Mr. Pilkington, initially dismissed the idea of animals managing a farm for themselves but later spread false rumors about the animals on Animal Farm in an attempt to undermine their rebellion.

Answers for Writing Prompt Text Dependent Questions:
1. The news of the rebellion on Animal Farm spread to the neighboring farms through the pigeons sent out by Snowball and Napoleon.
2. The other farmers initially dismissed the idea of animals managing a farm for themselves and pretended to laugh at the rebellion.
3. Mr. Frederick and Mr. Pilkington spread false rumors about the animals on Animal Farm, including cannibalism and torture, in an attempt to undermine their rebellion.
4. The rebellion on Animal Farm led to a wave of rebelliousness among animals on other farms, causing them to become more unruly and defiant.
5. The song "Beasts of England" contributed to the spread of rebellion as it was known everywhere and spread with astonishing speed, even among the human beings. It served as a symbol of hope and resistance for the animals.

Standards Covered:
1. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.1: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
2. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.3: Analyze how complex characters (e.g., those with multiple or conflicting motivations) develop over the course of a text, interact with other characters, and advance the plot or develop the theme.

Subject: 9th Grade English / Activity: Summary Project for Of Mice and Men

Tool: Choice Board Generator + Ask Raina

Prompt: Choose 9th grade as the grade level. Learning Goal, Standard, Objective, or Topic: After reading Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, students will demonstrate understanding of the plot, the characters, the underlying issues, and the literary devices of the novel. Additional details: Include a variety of modalities for the choices.

Example: 9th Grade: Summary Project for Of Mice and Men

Choice Board Generator (UDL)

Grade Level: 9th Grade

Input Text: Learning Goal, Standard, Objective, or Topic: After reading Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, students will demonstrate understanding of the plot, the characters, the underlying issues, and the literary devices of the novel. Additional details: Include a variety of modalities for the choices.


Choice Board: Demonstrating Understanding of Of Mice and Men
TitleDescription
Character AnalysisWrite a detailed character analysis of one of the main characters in the novel, exploring their motivations, actions, and relationships.
StoryboardCreate a storyboard that highlights the key events and themes in the novel, using visuals and captions.
Letter ExchangeImagine you are a character in the novel and write a series of letters to another character, discussing your experiences and emotions.
Alternate EndingWrite an alternate ending for the novel, considering how events could have unfolded differently and the impact it would have on the characters.
Symbolism AnalysisSelect a symbolic element from the novel (e.g., the rabbits, the river) and explain its deeper meaning and significance in the story.
Character CollageCreate a visual collage that represents the different aspects of a character's life, personality, and experiences in the novel.
Podcast EpisodeRecord a podcast episode where you discuss the major themes, conflicts, and character development in the novel, providing examples and analysis.
Compare and ContrastCompare and contrast two characters from the novel, discussing their similarities, differences, and their impact on the plot.
Visual TimelineCreate a visual timeline of the major events in the novel, including key quotes and illustrations to enhance understanding.


========================================================================================


Ask Raina: Create detailed instructions for this choice board activity: Create a storyboard that highlights the key events and themes in the novel, using visuals and captions.


Note: Ask Raina to create instructions for all of the choice board activities you want to include.


Storyboard instructions:
1. Gather materials: You will need a blank piece of paper or a storyboard template, writing utensils (such as markers, colored pencils, or pens), and access to the novel Of Mice and Men.
2. Familiarize yourself with the novel: Read the novel Of Mice and Men, paying close attention to the key events and themes. Take notes or highlight important scenes or passages that you want to include in your storyboard.
3. Decide on the format: Determine how many panels you want to include in your storyboard. You can use a single sheet of paper and divide it into panels, or you can use a storyboard template with pre-made panels. Consider how many key events and themes you want to portray and allocate enough space for each.
4. Plan your visuals: For each panel, think about the key event or theme you want to depict. Choose an appropriate visual representation for each, such as a scene drawing, a symbol, or a character's facial expression. Consider using colors, shading, and other artistic techniques to enhance the visual impact.
5. Add captions: Write a caption or a brief description for each panel that explains the significance of the event or theme being depicted. Use concise and clear language to convey your understanding.
6. Arrange the panels: Organize your panels in a logical order that effectively communicates the flow of events and themes in the novel. Make sure the storyboard is visually appealing and easy to follow.
7. Review and revise: Take a step back and review your storyboard. Make any necessary revisions or adjustments to ensure that the key events and themes are accurately represented. Check for spelling and grammatical errors in your captions.
8. Present your storyboard: Share your completed storyboard with others. Explain your choices of visuals and captions, and discuss how they highlight the key events and themes in Of Mice and Men.
9. Optional extension: If desired, you can further enhance your storyboard by adding additional elements, such as quotes from the novel, symbols, or annotations that provide deeper analysis or insights into the events and themes.
10. Reflect on your learning: After completing the storyboard, reflect on your understanding of the novel. Consider how creating the storyboard helped you analyze and synthesize the key events and themes in Of Mice and Men.


Step 3: Copy your plans into a Google Doc or Word Document and send!

By clicking the "copy" button in Bing Chat or MagicSchool.ai you can easily cut and paste all of the generated content into a document that you can share with your sub. 

This is also the time that you will want to read through and make any adjustments based on your own students, materials available and logistics for the day.

For example, for the 4th grade plans, since these are emergency sub plans, I wanted to make sure that no copies were needed for my materials so I adjusted and said to either read aloud, write on the board or display on the screen for the students for anything that was to be handed out.

For the high school English plans, just to provide some variety, I created more detailed plans that would include a bit more preparation work. Many of the activities in the choice board, for example, could be adjusted to use digital tools that wouldn't require photocopies or physical materials. (Example: the storyboard could be created in Google Slides, PowerPoint, Canva, Adobe Express, etc.)

Depending on the amount of adjustments or additions you make to the plans your time will vary but the bulk of the work is done!

📋 You can check out the 4th grade emergency sub plans here. 📋

FREE teaching ideas and templates in your inbox every week!
Subscribe to Ditch That Textbook
Love this? Don’t forget to share
  • Heba Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed says:

    That’s up to you

  • Heba Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed says:

    I don’t think that.

  • Heba Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed says:

    Very good

  • daisyjane.corpuz says:

    it’s funny how technology makes it easy for us and timeless. As a teacher, since college, I was trained to make authentic and original programs and lesson plans, but now that technology especially AIs has made us an effortless and non-time-consuming project which not only helps us to finish on time but also more time to relax.

    But isn’t technology make us lazy and dependent on it, we may not see it but it makes us unproductive and slow-moving, even taking credit for the work we did not even do. and this will make a habit that will somehow turn into addiction and turn us into sluggish workers we never imagined we would.

    What do you think?

  • california sub says:

    when does the ‘sub’ ever get any breaks? no mention of lunch or even a 15minute break in the lesson plans …

  • >