Most trainees lose easy marks in lesson plan exams for one simple reason: they don’t know how to write indicators and performance indicators correctly.
This guide shows you exactly what examiners expect, no guesswork, no confusion.
The Rule You Must Never Break
Your lesson plan must contain three learning indicators only:
1. Knowledge
2. Understanding
3. Application
And they must all begin with:
“By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:”
A Perfect Example (Study This Carefully)
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
1. Identify proper nouns in sentences.
2. Discuss the unique features of proper nouns.
3. Use proper nouns correctly in written sentences.
This is clean, structured, and exam-ready.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Indicators Correctly
Step 1: Write the Knowledge Indicator
This focuses on recall.
• Use action verbs like:
identify
list
name
define
state
mention
recall
recognize
label
outline
• Add a prepositional phrase to show context
Formula:
Verb + content + preposition (context/place)
Examples:
• Identify proper nouns in sentences
• List the 3 main parts of a plant
• Name the 16 regions in Ghana
Step 2: Write the Understanding Indicator
This shows comprehension.
• Use verbs like:
explain
describe
discuss
interpret
compare
classify
summarize
differentiate
illustrate
give examples
• Include a preposition to show relationship
Formula:
Verb + concept + preposition (relationship/detail)
Examples:
• Explain the importance of proper nouns
• Describe the process of evaporation
• Compare two characters in the story
Step 3: Write the Application Indicator
This tests real use of knowledge.
• Use verbs like: apply
use
solve
demonstrate
construct
calculate
write
perform
show
complete arrange
• Add a preposition to show how or where
Formula:
Verb + task + preposition (method/tool/context)
Examples:
• Use proper nouns correctly in written sentences
• Solve fraction problems using a number line
• Construct sentences with given words
How to Write Performance Indicators Correctly
Performance indicators show proof that learning has taken place. They must be measurable and specific.
Key Rule:
State exactly what learners will do and how well they will do it.
Examples:
• Learners can correctly identify at least 5 proper nouns in a paragraph.
• Learners can explain at least 3 features of proper nouns clearly.
• Learners can write 5 correct sentences using proper nouns.
Mistakes That Will Cost You Marks
Avoid these completely:
• Writing more than three indicators
• Using vague verbs like know, understand, learn
• Forgetting prepositions (this makes indicators incomplete)
• Mixing up domains (e.g., using “solve” under knowledge)
• Not linking indicators to the topic
Final Example (Standard)
By the end of the lesson, learners will be able to:
1. Identify proper nouns in a given passage.
2. Explain the characteristics of proper nouns.
3. Use proper nouns correctly in sentences.