Which component is essential when planning a lesson?

When planning a lesson, the inclusion of materials and media is crucial because these elements directly impact the effectiveness and engagement level of the lesson. Appropriate materials and media enhance the learning experience by providing visual, auditory, and tactile stimuli that can cater to different learning styles. They can include textbooks, digital resources, visual aids, and interactive tools that reinforce the concepts being taught. The right materials support the lesson objectives, facilitate better understanding, and help in maintaining student interest throughout the lesson. While factors such as class size, budget constraints, and the timing of the class can influence the logistics of teaching, they do not fundamentally impact the content and effectiveness of the lesson in the same way that well-selected materials and media do.