Lesson Plan

• Describe the structure and markup conventions for creating slides in a plain‑text file.
• Demonstrate how to import a .txt outline into PowerPoint, LibreOffice Impress, or Google Slides.
• Apply formatting and slide‑master techniques to produce a polished presentation.
• Troubleshoot common import errors such as missing slide separators or encoding issues.

• Computer with internet access for each student
• Text editor (Notepad, VS Code, etc.)
• Presentation software (PowerPoint, LibreOffice Impress, or Google Slides)
• Projector and screen for teacher demonstration
• Sample text‑file outline handout
• Optional: Python script template for extension activity

Begin with a quick discussion on how quickly slide decks can be created using only a text editor. Ask learners to recall previous work with outlines in Word or PowerPoint and link that knowledge to today’s method. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to produce a complete presentation from a simple .txt file and identify any import issues.

1. Do‑Now (5') – Students list three advantages of using plain‑text for slide creation.
2. Mini‑lecture & demo (10') – Teacher introduces markup symbols (#, ##, -, ---) and builds a sample .txt file live.
3. Guided practice (15') – Learners write a 3‑slide outline in a text editor, then import it into their chosen presentation program.
4. Formatting workshop (10') – Students apply a slide master, adjust bullet styles, and insert an image or chart.
5. Error‑checking (5') – Whole‑class review of common errors; students correct a deliberately flawed file.
6. Extension brief (5') – Introduce the optional Python script task and the time‑comparison activity.

Recap the key steps: markup, import, and formatting. Have each student write one “exit ticket” sentence describing the most useful tip they learned. Assign homework to create a 5‑slide presentation from a text file at home, optionally experimenting with a simple script to generate the outline.