Step 1: Focus on the right questions.
Identify the major controversies and debates within the subject you must teach. But don’t only focus on the questions that experts ask. Frame the questions from a student’s point of view. What questions will excite the student’s curiosity?

It's important to introduce big questions early in the course, both in the syllabus and on the first day of class, so that students see your vision and what they should be able to do by the end of the course.

Step 2: Gather information.

Look at syllabi on the Web. See how those courses are organized as well as their themes, learning objectives, and activities.

Get a copy of the course syllabus and other materials. The syllabus will tell you how the course is organized and the weight given to assignments and exams. Copies of old exams will indicate coverage and the course’s level of difficulty.

Step 3: Ask colleagues for advice and teaching materials.

Don’t be embarrassed to ask colleagues for teaching tips or materials or ways to approach a particular topic.

Step 4: Read the course books and articles before the class begins.

As you read the materials, ask yourself:
• What big questions, concepts, theories, themes, and findings does the reading raise?
• Which concepts or examples are the hardest to understand?
• What advice should you give students before they read the
material?