IMPACT OF LESSON PLAN IN TEACHING AND LEARNING BIOLOGY FOR THE STUDENTS PERFORMANCE IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS AT ITAS/GADAU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BAUCHI STATE

This study aimed to investigate the impact of lesson planning on the teaching and learning of Biology in secondary schools within the Itas-Gadau Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were; to determine the impact of lesson plans on Biology students' academic performance, identify any gender-based differences (male vs. female) in this impact, explore teachers' perspectives on lesson planning, and identify the key elements of an effective Biology lesson plan. The findings, based on questionnaire responses from teachers, revealed a strong consensus that lesson planning has a significant positive impact. Results indicated that wellstructured lesson plans improve student performance in Biology, aid in effective time management, and boost teachers' confidence. The study also found that both male and female students benefit equally from lessons delivered with a plan. Teachers perceived a direct link between their lesson planning and improved student learning outcomes. Based on the results, the study recommends: the organization of regular teacher training workshops on effective lesson planning; the implementation of robust monitoring and evaluation of lesson plans by school administrators; a policy mandate for the submission and review of lesson plans; the continued design of gender-inclusive lesson plans; and improved resource allocation to provide adequate instructional materials for teachers.