Instructional Spotlight: Creating Clarity for Students Through Learning Targets and Success Criteria — Part 1: Creating Clarity Begins with the Learning

Hey Teachers! Learning targets and success criteria are posted in classrooms everywhere—but are students actually clear about what they’re learning?

In the first episode of Instructional Spotlight, we’re going beyond posting an “I can” statement on the board and getting clear about what learning targets and success criteria are actually designed to do.

We’ll break down the difference between a standard, learning target, success criteria, and activity, explore why a learning target isn’t simply a standard rewritten in student-friendly language, and look at how each piece works together to create clarity and coherence for students.

Because just because we know where students are supposed to go doesn’t mean they do.

In this episode, you’ll explore:

• The difference between standards, learning targets, success criteria, and activities

• Why learning targets should reflect the learning progression

• How success criteria make successful learning visible

• Why completing an activity isn’t the same as demonstrating learning

• How creating clarity connects to accomplished teaching

Plus, take on the 30-Minute Prep Challenge by looking at one upcoming lesson through a new lens.

The big idea: Accomplished teaching begins by creating clarity.

Because the goal isn’t to rewrite the standard. The goal is to create clarity.

🎙️Next Episode: Instructional Spotlight: Creating Clarity for Students Through Learning Targets and Success Criteria— Part 2: Making Learning Visible Throughout the LessonEnjoying Instructional Spotlight?? Follow The 30 Minute PD so you never miss an episode, and share this conversation with a colleague or teaching partner who could use a little encouragement as they begin the school year.