A learning target for an assessment is a clear statement, expressed in student-friendly language, of what students should know, understand, and be able to do by the end of a lesson, unit, or course. It acts as a bridge between academic standards and daily classroom activities, helping students understand the purpose of their learning and assessment. Essentially, it's the foundation of an assessment system where students are actively engaged.
Understanding Learning Targets
Here's a more detailed look at what learning targets entail:
- Foundation of Assessment: As highlighted in the provided reference, learning targets are the "foundation of a student-engaged assessment system". They provide a framework for assessment.
- Translation of Standards: Teachers translate broad academic standards into specific, manageable goals.
- Student-Friendly Language: Learning targets are written in a way that students can easily understand and adopt as their own learning objectives.
Key Aspects of Learning Targets
Here are the elements that make up a good learning target:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Clarity | Easily understandable by students. Uses simple, straightforward language. |
| Specificity | Defines the exact knowledge, skills, or abilities that students should demonstrate. |
| Measurable | Allows teachers and students to gauge progress toward achieving the target. |
| Student Ownership | Written in a way that encourages student engagement and allows students to take responsibility for their own learning. |
| Alignment | Directly related to the content being taught and the purpose of the assessment. Linked to broader standards and learning goals. |
Practical Insights and Examples
Here are some ways learning targets are implemented:
- Example: Instead of just teaching about fractions, a teacher might use a learning target like, "I can add and subtract fractions with common denominators."
- Daily Use: Teachers might start a lesson by explicitly stating the learning target so students are aware of what they're working towards.
- Assessment Connection: Assessments are designed to directly measure how well students have achieved the stated learning targets.
- Student Reflection: Students can use learning targets to reflect on their own learning and identify areas where they need additional support.
The Benefit of Learning Targets
Learning targets offer numerous benefits:
- Student Engagement: They give students a clear purpose for learning, increasing motivation and focus.
- Effective Teaching: Teachers can use learning targets to plan lessons that directly address learning needs.
- Targeted Assessment: Assessments can be created to specifically measure students’ understanding of the learning targets.
- Progress Tracking: Both teachers and students can track progress towards specific learning goals.
In conclusion, a learning target is a specific, student-friendly articulation of what students are expected to learn, and it serves as the foundation for an engaging and effective assessment process.
