If a student is not at the level of knowledge required for the material you are to present, what should you do?

The correct approach in this scenario is to modify the lesson plan to meet the student's needs while still teaching the essential content outlined in the original lesson plan. This method allows you to ensure that the student comprehends the material, which is crucial for building a solid foundation of knowledge.

When you adapt the lesson plan, you can incorporate strategies or supplementary resources that cater to the student's current knowledge level. This might involve breaking down complex concepts into simpler components, using different teaching methods, or providing additional examples that relate to the student's experiences. Maintaining the integrity of the lesson plan ensures that you are still covering the objectives and goals set out for the course while being responsive to the needs of the student.

Considering other options, not teaching the lesson plan at all would leave gaps in the student’s learning and could hinder their progress. Simply calling the lead instructor could delay the lesson’s progress and does not empower you as the instructor to make adjustments based on your understanding of the student’s needs. Rewriting the lesson plan entirely may stray too far from the prescribed curriculum, which could create inconsistencies in learning for other students who might be at the expected knowledge level. Therefore, modifying the existing plan while adhering to its core components is the most effective approach.