Ever go to a swim class and wonder how you teacher comes up with what the class is going to do that day? Some may say that it is not that hard. However, a teacher puts in more prep time than is known. Lesson plans effect the teachers', the students, and are the vehicle for the knowledge and skills that are being conveyed. Responsibilities become serious especially when someone's life is on the line. An instructor's job is to use class time efficiently to stimulate and interest the students while also providing them with a safe environment through their lesson plans. The process of constructing a lesson plan is in depth and requires much attention to detail.
             An effective daily lesson must include a several key subjects. Developing a lesson plan is the most important part of the whole process. While developing your lesson plan, safety should always be on your mind. It is very helpful to teach safety issues related to the skill being introduced or practiced. Some skills require equipment, so the equipment must be listed and accounted for. All lessons should have an opening speech or activity. The time depends of the extent of the activity or the age of the participants. The activities can vary from light stretching to swimming vigorous laps. Remember that the opening activities should relate to the lesson!
             The more intense parts of the lesson have to do with the skills. Three parts of the lesson plan have to do with skills. The first part is reviewing skills learned previously and this can be done in several ways. You can first demonstrate the skill or show a video and then conduct a drill or give participants time to practice. Choose your methods depending on the complexity of the skill and the accomplishments of the class. Be sure to plan enough time for feedback from the group and individuals. Generally, to introduce a new skill it must be accompanied with a verbal introduction and demonstrati...