Clear Learning Targets

Module two explains the importance of having clear learning targets. It not only helps the teachers and students but the parents as well. Clear learning targets allow the teacher to know what exactly to teach, assess, and activities to plan. The other benefit is that it provides the students with a clear understanding of what they need to know/learn. It also allows them to self-assess and set goals for themselves. The third benefit is that clear learning targets are easy for parents to understand. If parents can comprehend what is going on in the classroom there is a better chance they will become more involved. Therefore, they can assist their child at home with their learning needs. This also provides the student with a strong support system.

The common misconception is that standards are clear learning targets. They are not, all standards are not easy to follow. There are complex standards that must be deconstructed for everyone to be able to understand. This is something that takes time and requires colleagues to collaborate on what the standard is focusing on. The teacher must first understand the standard. Next, the teacher must be able to explain the standard in a less complex way. This is how clear learning targets are created. Also, there are four learning target types that consist of knowledge, reasoning, skill, and product. Knowledge focuses on what the students know's and understands. An example would be to define an opinion. Reasoning focuses on the type of processes the student must do to learn the concept. An example would be the student can identify an opinion in the text and its supporting details. Skill focuses on what the child can do. An example would be writing an opinion piece. Product focuses on the end result. It focuses on the quality and how well the child understood the concept. An example would be the child writing and exemplary opinion