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Goal Setting & Action Planning

  • Jan. 8, 2016, 3:29 p.m.

Setting goals is a vital skill our students need to be taught. It's a life skill they will use throughout their life to create actionable plans. Goals empower us to take ownership and direct our own course.

While setting goals is fabulous, creating an action plan to reach those goals is even more important. People who accomplish their goals, know what it takes to get there. They make a plan, identify obstacles, and put forth the work to reach each of their goals. Students need explicit modeling of how to set a goal, create an action plan, identify possible obstacles, and see it through.

Here are 3 ways to set goals with your students in 2016:

1. Set a Variety of Goals Each Week

Goals are defined in two different categories: Short Term and Long Term.

Short term goals are smaller and more attainable goals that students set for themselves to accomplish in a short time period, i.e. a day, or weeks. Do you create a "to do" list daily or weekly? Each item is a goal to accomplish. Checklists are a great starting point for students when goal setting. Start with a checklist of things to accomplish in the classroom in the next couple of days. It could be reading several pages of their book or staying on a task during math centers.

Long Term goals are larger and have a longer time frame, i.e. a month(s), semester, or an academic school year. Long term goals need extensive action plans. Educators and students must commit to continually tracking and monitoring the progress of these goals throughout the year to determine progress. To get students thinking about long term goals, you can use the format of 2 Stars and 2 Wishes. Students identify strengths and next steps. Click here to download a free resource.

2. Action Plans

Creating an action plan is the most important part of goal setting. Think of an action plan as a road map to success. Students can map out a schedule, list, or sequence of events that will lead them to accomplishing their goal. Students need to see the teacher model this for them. Set a long term goal and then identify the steps that are necessary to meet your goal. Also, illustrate for students possible obstacles that could prevent success and brainstorm ways to overcome the obstacles. Show students that motivation and effort will pay off.

3. Progress Monitor

Take time with your students to evaluate their progress on short term and long term goals. Allow class time to discuss, revise, and evaluate the action plans that were created. Celebrate accomplishments and encourage growth at all levels.

When students set goals, monitor progress, and celebrate the progress they become focused, self-directed learners.