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Make Sub Plans in 5 Minutes (or Less)
You’re running a fever at 6:00 a.m. and need a sub—fast. But planning still takes time... unless you have a digital helper. This week’s tip: use AI to write emergency sub plans or adapt existing lessons in minutes.
Michael Rice
June 23, 2025
📌 Principle of the Week:
Begin with the simplest version of what you want, and ask ChatGPT to build from there.
Sub Plans
Don’t overthink it. Just say what you need plainly, and let AI do the heavy lifting.
For example, instead of listing every detail, just start with:
1. Copy this prompt and paste into www.chatgpt.com:
“I teach 4th grade. I need a sub plan for math and reading for tomorrow.”
2. Then refine with a follow-up prompt like:
“Make it quieter activities since the sub isn’t familiar with my tech setup.”
3. Then improve it with this prompt:
“Add a quick brain break between lessons.”
Whether you’re building from scratch or recycling an old plan, AI can help structure the day, write instructions, and even suggest classroom management reminders. This can be a lifesaver during unexpected absences.
🎯 Sample Prompt to Try:
I need an emergency sub plan for my 5th grade class. The sub doesn’t know my tech setup, so I need simple activities for math and ELA that don’t require devices. Please include timing and instructions for the sub.
💡 Bonus Tip: Add Space Without Sending
When writing a prompt in ChatGPT, press Shift + Return (or Shift + Enter) to add a line break without submitting the prompt. This helps you organize longer prompts, add space between sections, or make your thoughts clearer—especially useful for lesson plans or structured requests!
📌 Additional Learning:
🧠 Want to make the plan sound like you?
Check out Issue #1: Making AI Output Truly Yours to fine-tune the tone and language of your sub plans.
🛠️ New to AI?
Start with Issue #2: Getting Started with ChatGPT for a quick setup guide.
That’s it for this week.
P.S. I would love to hear from you!
If there’s a specific challenge you’re facing or a question you have about using AI in the classroom, just reply to this email - I read every message.
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