The artifact that I chose for this reflection and alignment was the Unit of study. This artifact is a full unit plan that includes lessons, activities, and assessments that are all connected around a central topic. It shows how to organize instruction over a longer period of time while making sure that all lessons build off of each other. This can be helpful for teachers because it provides a clear structure and erection for teaching, while also allowing flexibility to adjust based on student needs. It also includes different strategies, differentiation and ways to engage students, which makes it a strong example of effective planning.

This assignment expanded my knowledge and pedagogy by helping me understand how important it is to plan ahead and connect lessons in a meaningful way. Before this, I did not fully realize how much thought goes into creating a full unit instead of just individual lessons, it showed me how to incorporate different instructional strategies, assessments, and differentiation into one plan. In my future practice as an educator, I will use unit planning to make sure my teaching is organized, purposeful and engaging for all students. This will help me become a more effective teacher by making sure that students are building knowledge over time and are supported in different ways throughout the unit.

Makenzies UNE Standards-Based Lesson Plan – Spring 2026