Measurable Goals:   I’ve often seen goals written that are not “measurable.”  For example, “Student will write a complete sentence by October 31 (end of first quarter marking period);  Student will write a paragraph by January 31 (end of second quarter marking period.)”   This goal does not include the level of skill expected (50%? 70%?).

Measurable: “Student will write a complete sentence 9/10 times (or with 90% accuracy) by the end of Q1.”   “Student will write a paragraph containing 3-5 complete sentences on a topic of choice 9/10 times (or with 90% accuracy) by the end of Q2.”

Parents need to also ask how frequently within a quarter this skill is assessed:  is there a daily writing activity?  Weekly?  Parents also need to request samples of their child’s writing.  ALSO, ask the question:  did my child do this independently or with multiple prompts??  If a child requires many prompts to get through the activity, then have the team include the current level of prompt needs and the expected reduced need over a specific period of time, usually a quarter.

Measurable:  “Student will write a complete sentence with no more than three prompts 9/10 times by the end of Q1.”  “Student will write a complete sentence with no more than one prompt by the end of Q2 with 90% accuracy.”