What should be the teacher's primary focus for ensuring smooth transitions between lessons?

Focusing on preparation for instruction and having the necessary materials ready is crucial for ensuring smooth transitions between lessons. When a teacher is organized and has all the required resources on hand, it minimizes downtime and disruptions during the transition. This level of preparedness allows for a more seamless shift from one lesson to the next, which can help maintain student engagement and momentum throughout the learning process.

Other factors, while important, do not directly address the immediate need for a smooth transition. Engaging students in discussions about the last lesson can be beneficial for reinforcing concepts learned, but if materials are not prepared, this discussion could lead to inefficient use of time. Providing relevant homework assignments helps to extend learning beyond the classroom, yet it does not address the transition between lessons directly. Changing classroom seating arrangements may be relevant for facilitating interaction or improving dynamics but, again, does not directly contribute to the efficiency of transitioning from one instructional activity to another. Thus, being ready with the appropriate materials is the most effective strategy for a smooth transition.