5. Delivering a lesson

5.4. How to develop generic competences and integrate cross cutting issues in a lesson?

  1. Analyze the lesson objectives and content: Begin by reviewing your specific lesson objectives and content. Ask yourself: Which generic competences can naturally be developed through the topic? Which cross-cutting issues are related to the lesson content or context? For example, if teaching a Social Studies lesson on community resources; generic competence may include communication, cooperation, and critical thinking while cross-cutting issues may involve environmental sustainability and financial education.
  2. Include the identified generic competences and crosscutting issues in the lesson plan and lesson delivery. For instance, include them in:
  • Instructional objectives: if they are part of the content
  • Learning activities: Design activities that foster identified competences and allow learners to engage with cross-cutting issues. Examples: Group work for developing cooperation, role-play or debates to build communication and respect for diverse opinions (peace education, gender), case studies that relate to environmental or financial issues and problem-solving tasks that encourage critical and creative thinking.
  • Teaching methods: Use learner-centered methods that support the development of these competences: Discussion for communication and critical thinking; inquiry-based learning for research and problem-solving; project-based learning to promote lifelong learning and collaboration.
  • Teaching and learning materials: Use resources that reflect diversity, inclusivity, and relevance to cross-cutting issues. Example: Use stories or images that include people with disabilities or reflect gender equity.
  • Assessment: Assess both the subject content and the development of competences and awareness of cross-cutting issues. Use rubrics for group work (assess cooperation). Include reflection questions (e.g., How can we manage natural resources sustainably?). Observe participation in discussions (communication, peace and values).
  • Reflect and  adjust: After the lesson, reflect on whether the competences were developed, how effectively the cross-cutting issue was integrated and what can be improved next time.