1. In the Middle School Classroom Goal Setting

2. Why teach goal-setting? “ If they think they can’t, they’re probably right!” Students who have developed strong sense of ability: See challenging problems as tasks to be mastered Are more interested in participating Form a stronger sense of commitment to their interests and activities Continue to try when they don’t succeed the first time Students with an undeveloped sense of ability: Avoid challenging tasks Believe that difficult tasks are too tough for them Focus on struggle or failure Give up easily

3. Appeal to the “Four Dimensions” to help students set goals…

4. Who sets the goal? Extrinsic – outside motivation Intrinsic – motivated from within Help students see how accomplishing the goal will benefit them… I will be better off having achieved my goal. It is connected to my life. I can decide on and achieve goals. The goal is of value to me. More intrinsic motivation = greater achievement!

5. Using goals to motivate student achievement on assessments STAR Progress Monitoring Share individual student scores/results/etc… Brainstorm (problems & solutions) Complete “stair-step” goal sheet Timely feedback – praise evident EFFORT and attainment! Acuity Share results of assessment and specific areas of strength/weakness Brainstorm (problems & solutions) Complete individual goal sheet Timely feedback – praise!

8. Using goals to motivate student achievement on assignments/tests PowerSchool Show students how your class averages are figured Provide samples of how different categories affect overall grade Allow students to practice figuring grades Brainstorm (problems & solutions) Set goals Communicate results – recognize effort & achievement Teach students how to track assignment data Encourage students to take ownership of their progress in class