What preparation steps should an instructor take before teaching a lesson?

To effectively prepare for teaching a lesson, instructors should prioritize reading the lesson plan and gathering the necessary course materials. This step is crucial because it ensures that the instructor has a clear understanding of the objectives, content, and structure of the lesson. Familiarity with the lesson plan allows the instructor to anticipate potential questions from students and effectively facilitate discussions or activities. Moreover, gathering course materials is essential to have all necessary resources, such as visual aids, handouts, and equipment, readily available to support the learning process. This thorough preparation helps create a more organized and engaging learning environment, enhancing both the instructor's confidence and the students' experience.

Other options, such as discussing the lesson only with colleagues or focusing on unrelated activities like reading social media, do not provide the foundational preparation needed to deliver an effective lesson. Additionally, while pantomiming the lesson can be a useful practice technique, it does not cover the comprehensive preparation required to lead a successful instructional session.