What does the "backward design" model emphasize in lesson planning?

The "backward design" model emphasizes the importance of identifying desired results and assessments first. This approach starts with the end in mind by determining what students need to learn and achieve by the end of the instructional period. This involves clearly outlining the learning objectives or goals, and then designing assessments that will measure whether students have met those goals.

By establishing the expected outcomes first, instructors can create meaningful learning experiences and select appropriate instructional strategies that support those objectives. This method encourages a more focused approach to teaching, ensuring that all activities and lessons align with the desired results, leading to more effective education and improved student comprehension.

In this context, the other options do not align with the backward design philosophy. Planning activities before defining outcomes veers away from the intentional alignment that backward design promotes, while conducting assessments after learning activities may result in a misalignment of education goals. Additionally, a sole focus on teaching methods neglects the integral role of outcomes and assessments that inform and guide those methods.