When you're preparing a program, it's easy to feel like you're starting from scratch. That’s where templates come in—they give you a simple starting point so you can focus more on your ideas and less on formatting.
Whether it’s a syllabus, a lesson plan, a handout, or a sign-in sheet, a good template helps you stay organized, save time, and reduce stress. It reminds you of what to include, helps keep your approach clear and consistent, and makes it easier to share your knowledge in a way others can follow.
Templates don’t box you in—they free you up to be creative, confident, and focused on what matters most: connecting with your learners.
You can always adapt them to your style, skip what you don’t need, or add your own flair. But starting with a structure means you don’t have to reinvent the wheel—just steer it in your own direction.
Syllabus:
In a traditional classroom, a syllabus is a formal document that outlines the course content, expectations, and policies. But in the Renaissance Society, the syllabus plays a slightly different—but equally valuable—role. It’s not about formality or rules. It’s about communication, clarity, and building trust with your fellow learners.
Lesson Plans:
You may be an expert in your subject or have years of experience to draw from, but when it comes to teaching a class, especially to fellow adults, a lesson plan can make all the difference.
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Attendance:
In a formal classroom, taking attendance is often about tracking student compliance. But in a Renaissance Society setting, it serves a much friendlier and more practical purpose: it helps you build connections, stay organized, and support your learners more personally.
Public Speaking:
Public speaking can feel intimidating, even for those with years of professional experience. But here’s the good news: leading a Renaissance Society program isn’t about giving a flawless speech—it’s about connecting with your peers.
PowerPoint:
PowerPoint is a helpful tool, but it doesn’t have to be fancy to be effective. At its best, it’s simply there to support your teaching, not do the teaching for you. You don’t need animations, charts, or complicated designs. A few clear slides with keywords, images, or questions can help guide your lesson and give your learners something to focus on.
Zoom:
Zoom doesn’t have to be intimidating—it’s simply a tool to help you share what you know with people who want to learn. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to teach effectively online. In fact, the most successful Zoom classes are often the simplest ones, where the instructor is calm, clear, and focused on connection.
Feedback:
Feedback isn’t about judgment—it’s about learning together. As a Renaissance Society program leader, you're part of a community where everyone is exploring, sharing, and trying new things. Inviting feedback from your participants is one of the best ways to make your class stronger—and to grow more confident as a teacher.
Syllabus:
Why a Syllabus Matters (Even in a Peer-Led Setting)
A well-crafted syllabus tells your participants what they can expect—and what not to expect—from your program. It helps answer questions like:
What is this program about?
How long will it run?
What topics will we cover each week?
Is there anything I should bring or prepare?
What’s the goal of this program?
For your learners—many of whom are curious, independent adults—a syllabus is a helpful roadmap. It gives structure to your sessions and lets participants know how the program fits into their own interests or learning goals. It also helps reduce uncertainty. When learners can see the big picture, they feel more confident and engaged.
For you as the leader, a syllabus is a valuable planning tool. It keeps your program focused and ensures each session contributes to the learning goals you’ve outlined. It also frees you from having to re-explain the plan each week, allowing more time for actual teaching and interaction.
And perhaps most importantly, a syllabus invites shared responsibility. When expectations are clear, everyone can show up more fully—ready to contribute, ask questions, and support each other in the learning experience.
It doesn’t have to be long or formal. A simple, one-page overview of your program structure, schedule, and goals is often all that’s needed. What matters most is that it reflects your thoughtfulness, your enthusiasm, and your respect for your learners’ time and curiosity.
Here are some sample syllabi templates to get you started:
Lesson Plans:
Why Lesson Plans Are Helpful (Even If You Know Your Topic Well)
Think of a lesson plan as your teaching map—it helps you stay on track, use your time well, and create an experience that feels smooth, intentional, and engaging. It’s not about scripting every word or creating a rigid timeline. It’s about thinking through what you want to accomplish, how you’ll get there, and what kind of experience you want your learners to have along the way.
For Renaissance Society programs, where sessions are often informal, discussion-based, or one-time-only, a good lesson plan helps with:
Clarity: What’s the main goal of the session? What do you want people to walk away with?
Flow: How will you start the session, introduce your topic, involve the group, and wrap things up?
Timing: How will you pace each section so it doesn’t feel rushed—or drag?
Engagement: Where will you invite participation, ask questions, or include stories and examples?
Even a simple outline with time estimates and a few notes about transitions can make you feel more confident. You won’t be wondering “What’s next?” in the middle of your session—and you’ll be better prepared if the conversation takes a turn or you need to adjust.
Plus, having a plan helps you make intentional choices: What material is most relevant? What can be cut if time runs short? How can you balance sharing your knowledge with inviting others to share theirs?
Lesson plans are especially helpful for managing energy and pacing. For retired program leaders, knowing in advance how much talking, showing, or guiding you’ll be doing can help you prepare both mentally and physically—and leave room for learners to step in and contribute.
At its core, a lesson plan is a sign of respect: for your learners’ time, for the subject, and for yourself as an instructor. It says, “I’ve thought this through—and I’m excited to share it with you.”
Here are some sample templates:
Attendance:
Why Take Attendance? (And How to Keep It Simple)
When you take attendance, you’re not just keeping a list—you’re learning names, noticing patterns (like who may be falling behind or missing key sessions), and making space for real community building. Especially in small- to mid-sized programs, knowing who’s there—and who’s not—helps you tailor your teaching and follow up thoughtfully.
For example, if a participant misses a session, you might email them a handout or quick summary. Or if someone returns after being gone, you can welcome them back with a warm “we missed you!” These small gestures reinforce what Renaissance Society learning is all about: mutual respect, lifelong connection, and shared curiosity.
Attendance is also helpful if:
You want to send follow-up materials or announcements to just the active participants
You plan to repeat the program and want to track average attendance across sessions
You’re co-teaching and want a simple way to track engagement over time
It doesn’t have to be formal or time-consuming. A simple sign-in sheet, printed roster, or a personal notebook where you check off names each week (or circulate the list for participants to check themselves off) is plenty. If you’re teaching via Zoom, you can download the participant list after each session or take a screenshot at the start.
Ultimately, taking attendance is less about “keeping tabs” and more about paying attention to the people who’ve shown up to learn with you, and the community you're building together, one session at a time.
Here is a sample template:
Public Speaking:
Public Speaking: You Don’t Have to Be a Performer—Just Be Present
You don’t need to be dramatic or polished. What matters most is that you’re clear, genuine, and engaged. Speak to your group the way you’d speak to a friend over coffee. Make eye contact, smile, and pause now and then to check in: “Does that make sense?” or “Has anyone else experienced this?” These small moments invite connection and make your class feel welcoming.
It’s okay to glance at your notes. It’s okay to forget a point and come back to it later. The more you focus on your learners rather than on performing, the more comfortable you’ll feel—and the more engaging you’ll be.
And remember: your audience is rooting for you. They're not there to critique—they're there to learn with you. You’ve already done the hardest part: showing up with something worth sharing.
Here are a few helpful resources from professionals:
PowerPoint:
Using PowerPoint: A Tool to Support You—Not Replace You
Think of your slides as visual companions—they should highlight your points, not repeat everything you’re saying. Avoid filling them with long paragraphs. Instead, use short phrases or prompts that help you stay on track and make it easier for others to follow along.
It’s also okay to not use slides at all. Many excellent Renaissance Society instructors lead entire sessions with just a handout, an outline, or a live discussion. If you do use PowerPoint, keep it simple, legible, and calm. Use large fonts, clear contrast, and one idea per slide.
And remember: people came to hear from you, not your slides. If the technology acts up, you can always continue the conversation. A strong voice, a thoughtful story, or a good question often does more than a polished presentation.
YouTube is full of helpful PowerPoint tutorials that vary depending on your skill and comfort level. While there isn't a one size fits all solution, here is a comprehensive tutorial.
Zoom:
Teaching on Zoom: Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Start by showing up a few minutes early to settle in and greet participants as they arrive. A friendly “Good morning!” goes a long way in making others feel comfortable. Speak clearly, look toward the camera now and then, and use your voice and facial expressions to bring warmth into the virtual room.
Keep your screen uncluttered and share only what’s needed. Slides? Great. But they’re optional. A single visual, a handout, or even just a strong voice and outline can carry the class beautifully.
Don’t worry if there’s a tech hiccup. We’ve all been muted when we meant to speak or accidentally shared the wrong screen. Just smile, take a breath, and move on. Your learners understand—they’ve been there too.
Most of all, remember: you don’t have to master Zoom to be a masterful teacher. If you show up prepared, open, and engaged, your learners will feel it—screen or no screen.
Please reach out to your Zoom tech host first. Then other members. Finally, the Technology Committee Co-Chairs.
Feedback:
Feedback: A Conversation That Helps Everyone Grow
You don’t need a formal evaluation. A simple, thoughtful question like “What was most helpful today?” or “Is there anything you’d change for next time?” can open the door to honest, respectful insights. Most people appreciate the chance to reflect and contribute to making the program even better.
Feedback also reminds your learners that their experience matters. It encourages a sense of collaboration—this isn’t just your program, it’s our program. You’re building it together.
And don’t forget: positive feedback counts too. When someone says, “I really liked the way you explained that,” or “The handout made it easier for me to follow along,” those are signs you’re doing something right. Celebrate what’s working, and be curious (not discouraged) about what can improve.
Think of feedback as a gift—it gives you the chance to reflect, refine, and return even stronger next time.
Here is a sample course evaluation form:
