Learning targets for standards are clear statements that describe what students should know, understand, and be able to do in relation to specific educational standards. They focus on the skills and knowledge students will develop rather than the tasks they will complete.
Understanding Learning Targets
Learning targets are essential for effective teaching and learning. They provide clarity for both teachers and students about the desired learning outcomes.
- Clarity: Learning targets make it clear what students are expected to learn.
- Focus: They help teachers focus their instruction on the most important concepts and skills.
- Assessment: They provide a basis for assessing student learning and providing feedback.
Key Characteristics of Effective Learning Targets
Here are some key characteristics that define effective learning targets:
- Student-Centered: Focused on what students will learn, not what teachers will do.
- Observable: Described in terms that can be observed and measured.
- Specific: Clearly define the knowledge, skills, and understanding that students are expected to acquire.
Examples of Learning Targets
The provided reference offers a great contrast between weak and strong learning target examples:
| Weak Learning Target | Strong Learning Target |
|---|---|
| "I can write a paragraph about polar bears." | "I can describe the ideal habitat for a polar bear." |
| "I can complete the worksheet on fractions" | "I can solve fraction problems with unlike denominators." |
Explanation of the Differences:
- The weak targets focus on task completion ("write a paragraph," "complete the worksheet").
- The strong targets emphasize the knowledge and skills gained ("describe the habitat," "solve fraction problems").
Why are Learning Targets Important?
Learning targets play a crucial role in the educational process:
- Guide Instruction: They help teachers plan and deliver effective instruction aligned with standards.
- Enhance Student Understanding: They allow students to understand what they are learning and why.
- Promote Self-Assessment: Students can use learning targets to self-assess their progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Improve Communication: They provide a common language for discussing learning between teachers, students, and parents.
How to Develop Effective Learning Targets
Developing effective learning targets involves several key steps:
- Start with the Standard: Begin by carefully reviewing the relevant educational standard.
- Identify Key Concepts and Skills: Determine the key concepts and skills that students need to master in order to meet the standard.
- Write the Learning Target: Write the learning target as a statement about what students will know, understand, and be able to do.
- Ensure Clarity and Specificity: Make sure the learning target is clear, specific, and observable.
- Review and Revise: Review and revise the learning target to ensure it is aligned with the standard and appropriate for the students.
