A learning target for standards is a student-friendly description of what students should learn or be able to do in a particular lesson, aligned with specific educational standards.
Defining Learning Targets
Learning targets translate broad educational standards into specific, understandable goals for students. According to the provided reference, learning targets are:
- Student-friendly descriptions: Explained using words, pictures, actions, or a combination.
- Focus on learning and accomplishment: Clearly state what students are expected to learn or achieve during a lesson.
- Meaningfully shared: When students understand the target, they can focus their efforts effectively.
Purpose of Learning Targets
Learning targets serve several important functions:
- Clarity for Students: They help students understand what they are learning and why.
- Focus for Instruction: They guide teachers in planning and delivering instruction.
- Alignment with Standards: They connect daily lessons to broader learning standards.
- Assessment: They provide a basis for assessing student learning.
Examples of Learning Targets
Here are some examples of learning targets based on different subjects:
| Subject | Standard Example | Learning Target Example |
|---|---|---|
| Math | CCSS.Math.Content.3.NF.A.1 | "I can explain that a fraction is part of a whole." |
| Science | NGSS MS-PS1-1 | "I can use models to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen." |
| English Language Arts | CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.5.2 | "I can determine a theme of a story from details in the text." |
Creating Effective Learning Targets
When crafting learning targets, consider the following:
- Start with the Standard: Identify the specific standard you are addressing.
- "I Can" Statements: Frame the target as an "I can" statement from the student's perspective.
- Use Simple Language: Avoid jargon and complex vocabulary.
- Focus on Measurable Outcomes: The target should be something you can observe or assess.
- Share with Students: Ensure students understand the target at the beginning of the lesson.
Benefits of Using Learning Targets
Using learning targets effectively can lead to:
- Increased student engagement
- Improved student understanding
- More focused instruction
- Better alignment with standards
