Why Most Sub Plans Fail (And How to Fix Them)
Let’s talk about sub plans. Honestly, this topic deserves more attention than it gets, because when our bodies and lives decide to human all over the place, we’re the ones left scrambling.
Let’s get this whole sub plans thing figured out.
The Problem With Typical Sub Plans
1. Busywork That Doesn’t Stick and Wastes Time
Yep, you read that right. Busywork is a wasteful use of time. Too many sub plans rely on word searches, random worksheets, or filler assignments that don’t actually reinforce learning. Students can sniff out “busywork” a mile away, and once they’re disengaged, the sub’s day gets harder too.
Make sure the assignment is meaningful and ties into what students are already learning.
2. Unclear Directions
Even the best assignments fall apart if instructions aren’t crystal clear. Subs may not have content knowledge, and students often need step-by-step guidance. Without it, your plan is destined for confusion and wasted time.
Always provide the info the sub needs to execute the assignment successfully.
💡Pro Tip: Create sub plans that don’t require additional resources or materials!
3. Wasted Class Time
When students finish too quickly, or when an activity requires supplies a sub can’t handle, valuable class time is lost. And guess who’s left re-teaching the lesson when you get back? (Yep — you.)
The Fix: A Ready-to-Go Sub Folder
The solution isn’t to work harder. It’s to prepare smarter. That’s why I recommend every teacher build a Sub Folder: a set of ready-to-use emergency plans that are engaging, clear, and flexible. And I have a solution to help you!
👉 Download my FREE Editable Sub Folder Template here — complete with two ready-to-assign science lessons that keep students learning without extra prep. Everything is student-ready, so subs don’t need to teach the content.
But Liz, those sub plans in your free sub folder are not on topic for what we’re teaching right now. You’re so smart. Check out SciAcademy for on-topic content all year long.
Beyond the Basics: The All-in-One Upgrade
While a Sub Folder is a lifesaver for emergencies, most teachers need something bigger: an all-in-one library of lessons, labs, and sub plans you can access at any time.
That’s exactly why I created SciAcademy — a monthly membership designed to give high school science teachers instant access to:
📘 Full year of resources for physics and chemistry
🧪 Hands-on labs that don’t require tons of prep
🔔 On-topic bellringers for 2 weeks
📂 Emergency sub plans already written for you and on-topic (no extra materials needed)
✨ A rotating resource library that matches the school year…done for you and for less than $1 a day.
Instead of scrambling, you can open the library, grab what you need, and know your students will be engaged — whether you’re teaching in person or leaving plans for a sub.
Take Back Your Time
Your time is too valuable to waste on sub plan stress. Build your Sub Folder today with the free template, and when you’re ready, take the next step by joining SciAcademy for the full toolkit.
💡 Start here → Download your Free Editable Sub Folder Template
💡 Or go all-in → Join SciAcademy today and get everything you need to save time all year
