Lesson Plan

Pros & Cons Blueprint

Students will learn to quickly identify and weigh pros and cons for everyday decisions using a simple, structured chart and guided discussion to support responsible decision‐making.

Teaching students a clear pros & cons framework helps them pause, consider outcomes, and make thoughtful choices—key skills for effective problem solving and responsible decision‐making.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

5 minutes

Step 1

Opening and Hook

2 minutes

Step 2

Guided Pros & Cons Brainstorm

6 minutes

Step 3

Share and Evaluate

4 minutes

Step 4

Closure and Exit Ticket

3 minutes

Slide Deck

Critical Choice: Weighing It Up

Welcome students! Today we’re going to learn how to weigh pros and cons to make better decisions. Introduce the title and explain that “Critical Choice” means thinking both sides through.

Scenario: After-School Activity

Read the scenario aloud and ask a few volunteers what they might choose. Emphasize this is a common decision many face.

Pros vs. Cons Framework

Explain that a simple two-column chart helps organize our thoughts. Point out each column heading.

Example: Joining the Soccer Team

Walk through each example point. Ask: “Would you add any other pro or con?”

Discuss with a Partner

Have students pair up. Circulate and listen for strong examples. Prompt deeper thinking if needed.

Exit Ticket

Distribute the Reflective Exit Ticket worksheet. Remind students to be honest about their reflection.