This morning as I responded to a commented from @bpagirls on my post about an Essential Questions Board, a thought hit me, so I typed it in my reply so I wouldn’t forget…
… I have just realized as I type, why not add a spot for personal-social goal-setting on my organizer for each student to set, write and reflect.
It stems back to this post and one of the 14 ways to think about good teaching post, 3. Include social-emotional learning goals as well as academic goals.
I got that I needed to do this, but I was not quite sure how to set and record these goals. My plans are to include a place on the back of our unit organizer students receive at the beginning of each unit. These are formatted in a booklet style to fit our INBs. Students can set a personal/social goal to focus on for the duration of the unit. Ideally, following the SMART goal format. Commit to it by writing it on their organizer. I will ask to see it, but they may choose whether to share with a peer. Wouldn’t it be great to have accountability partners for the unit?
Throughout the unit or even at beginning of class, ask them to read it to themselves. Maybe even allow someone to share their progress. Revisit them as we end the unit and write a brief reflection: How did I do? Did I meet my goal? If not, did I at least move toward it? What do I need to modify? Follow the format: 2 stars and a wish for their quick-write reflection. Celebrate their progress, maybe through our Shout-Out Board (more on that later).
I realize this type of goal setting may be tough for students… I am hoping after completing this task, it will allow for students to generate ideas.
Initially, I think goals can range from:
Improved / good attendance
Be to class on time
Being prepared for class
Completion of assignments
Asking for help
Asking questions or participating in class discussions.
Attend tutoring if needed
Work in a group with people I don’t know.
Share my ideas in class
Share my assessments and progress with parents/guardian
Choose better practice/study options
Listen to others ideas
Evaluate how my choices are impacting my learning.
Here is a sample of the back of my unit organizer. I plan to insert personal goals below the unit reflection. Here is an updated version of a complete unit organizer and student assessment tracker. Feel free to modify for use in your personal classroom. Thanks to Crazy Math Teacher Lady and Math = Love for inspiring through their posts?
My next task is to locate a fill-in the blank for a SMART to include on the first unit. Kind of a madlibs style to get us started.
If you have a system in place or use LIM or AVID in your school, I welcome input and suggestions.
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