Lesson Plan Timing Calculator
Split a class period across activities.
Enter your values
Enter the lesson length in min.
Enter the starter share in %.
Enter the instruction share in %.
Enter the practice share in %.
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.
- Practice
- 30 min
- Starter
- 6 min
- Instruction
- 15 min
- Plenary / review
- 9 min
Quick answer
A balanced lesson gives most time to guided and independent practice, not lecture.
Segment minutes = period × segment share
At a glance
| What it does | Split a class period across activities. |
|---|---|
| Category | Education |
| Inputs needed | Lesson length, Starter share, Instruction share, Practice share |
| Main output | Practice |
| Formula | Segment minutes = period × segment share |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Lesson Plan Timing Calculator
- 1Enter the length of your lesson.
- 2Set the share for starter, instruction and practice.
- 3The remainder becomes the plenary.
Inputs explained
- Lesson length(min)
- Enter the lesson length in min.
- Starter share(%)
- Enter the starter share in %.
- Instruction share(%)
- Enter the instruction share in %.
- Practice share(%)
- Enter the practice share in %.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Lesson length60 min
- Starter share10 %
- Instruction share25 %
- Practice share50 %
Results
- Practice30 min
- Starter6 min
- Instruction15 min
- Plenary / review9 min
Frequently asked questions
How long should direct instruction be?
Keep it under 15 minutes for most age groups before switching to practice.
What is a plenary?
A short review at the end where students summarise learning.
What do I need to enter into the Lesson Plan Timing Calculator?
Just 4 values: lesson length, starter share, instruction share, practice share. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.
How does the Lesson Plan Timing Calculator work out the answer?
A balanced lesson gives most time to guided and independent practice, not lecture. It applies the formula Segment minutes = period × segment share and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.
Is the Lesson Plan Timing Calculator free, and do I need an account?
It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.