What are learning targets?

Learning targets are specific learning goals written in kid-friendly language.  They begin with “I can…” and tell students what they will learn and be able to do.  These can be short-term statements that tell what students will be able to do at the end of class or the end of a week.  They can also be long-term and might describe what a student can do at the end of a course.  I find short-term targets to be the most meaningful because they apply to what kids are doing now.

As I listened to this video, I heard the kids say several times, ” I can see myself…” and one mentioned that the learning target makes a statement that builds confidence.  This seems in line with the ideas of growth mindset and visualization that encourage a student to focus and work toward a goal.

Recording and reflecting

Last year, I had my students record their learning targets on a form, and at the end of the activity they rated themselves according to their level of mastery.  These forms are in my Student Learning Target Reflection and Goal Setting Forms on TeachersPayTeachers.  Reflection is useful for students, especially when they go a step further and figure out what they need to do to extend their learning.

If your child is distance learning with a teacher from their school, pay attention to any learning targets that they provide.  This is valuable information because it helps you and your child know what you are working toward.

If you are homeschooling, learning targets can be used to focus instruction and help students to work to meet a goal.  When a child struggles with a concept or skill, work together to figure out what they could do next.  It is a practice that will build increasing independence as they make progress.

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