Backward design is an approach to curriculum development where teachers first identify the desired learning outcomes and then design assessments and lessons to achieve those goals. The process involves 3 stages: 1) identifying desired results by clarifying learning goals, 2) determining acceptable evidence of student understanding through culminating assessments, and 3) planning lessons and instructional experiences to equip students with required knowledge and skills to meet the defined objectives. This approach helps teachers focus classroom time on important concepts and assess whether students have truly understood the material.