Goal Setting with Learners

As individuals we set goals all the time.  The same happens in the classroom.  If a student is involved in understanding what they are SUPPOSED to learn and what they ALREADY know, then they can decide what piece or component they learn next to help close the gap between the two. This puts learners in the driver seat and gives them voice and choice in their learning.  While not every standard can be easily broken apart and then have resources readily available for students to learn, there are seveal standards that do fit this model.  Our school district has worked hard to implement standards-based learning in English Language Arts.  

In English Language Arts, we have designated priority standards at each grade.  There are key skills and vocabulary listed that are needed to learn and be successful at implementing each standard successfully.  This allows learners to look at those specific skills and vocabulary and take inventory of what they already know and what they need to learn.  Then, they set goals for themselves based on what they have left to learn.  They can typically prioritize those things and then start working on those skills themselves and with the help of the teacher.  Teachers in the district have been trained on how to facilitate the evaluation of the priority standard requirements and helping students set goals for themselves.  Then between independent activities, small group lessons with others that need that same skill/vocab, and teacher directives, students are able to master those skills they are lacking.  Some students have few and learn quickly, while others may be working on a standard for a while, as they need many components.  It is the teacher's job to know, along with the learner themselves, what each learners needs and help facilitate the learner in meeting those needs.  

Sample Student Version Priority Standard

The article from Edutopia by Victoriana Savas does a good job at explaining all the ins and outs of goal setting and progress monitoring.  

Help from Home

If you want to know how to support your child at home, I have included this short video to help you set goals with them or see what type of goals we are setting in the classroom.  You can also praise them for their hard work. A crucial part of goal setting is learning how to navigate setbacks and evaluate progress. [Goal setting resource and At home goal setting resource ]

• Focus on the Process: Instead of "I am proud of your A," shift praise to the effort they put in: "I am proud that you stuck with this math problem even though it was hard!" 

• Celebrate Milestones: Break large, overwhelming goals (like a big end-of-term project) into smaller pieces and celebrate each step to maintain motivation.

• Model Goal Setting: Talk about your own goals out loud. Share what you are working on, what struggles you face, and how you adjust when things don't go as planned.

I would strongly encourage you to get with your child and/or their teacher.  They will be able to share with you the goals they are currently working on.  Some of those things can be practiced at home.  Many can be supported with quick vocab review, basic skills practice or reinforcement, or simply reading a little bit each night. 

Another huge help for the learner to be successful in class but also just in life, talk about and instill in them a growth mindset.  This video does a good job of helping understand and giving ideas on growth mindset and what you can do at home.