Easy sub plans are plans that a substitute can follow in minutes, that students can do without new instruction, and that take you very little time to write. They are not lazy plans. They are plans designed so that fewer things can go wrong. This guide is for teachers of grades 6-12.
The rules of easy sub plans
- One main task per class. Do not stack three assignments.
- Familiar skills only. Choose review, practice, or reading students can handle on their own.
- Minimal materials. Paper, pencils, and copies are enough.
- No required technology. If it needs Wi-Fi or logins, have a paper backup.
- Written steps. Number the directions so the sub can follow them in order.
A simple day structure
- Opening task (5 minutes). A short question or warm-up on the board while attendance is taken.
- Main work (most of the period). One assignment, with a clear stopping point.
- Wrap-up (5 minutes). Students turn in work, check answers, or write a one-sentence reflection.
- Early finisher option. A reading, puzzle, or writing prompt.
What to write in the plan
For each class, list the time, the task, the materials and where they are, how to collect work, and what to do if students finish early. Keep it to a short page. If you need a layout, copy our free sub plans template.
Where to get the lesson itself
If you do not have time to create a worksheet, use one that is ready. The Substitute Plans library has free lessons for grades 6-12 you can filter by subject, class length, technology, and how independently students can work. Choose No required technology and High independence for the easiest day for everyone.
What to skip
- New content that needs explanation
- Group projects that need materials or movement
- Videos that depend on a working network, unless you have a paper backup
Next steps
Once you have an easy plan for each class, put it in a folder and add it to your emergency sub plans. Substitutes can also use our guide to what to do as a substitute teacher.
Keep reading
- Free Printable Emergency Sub Plans (PDF) – print a ready-made lesson to drop in.
- Sub Tub Ideas for Grades 6-12 – a place to keep each easy plan.
- Substitute Teacher Binder: What to Include – the fuller version for the whole year.
Browse free sub plans by subject: science, math, social studies, ELA, art, music and theater, PE and health, Spanish, French and German, technology, business and personal finance, CTE, speech, journalism and media, and advisory and study hall.