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For example, if a student says “I want to be a professional musician,” discuss the skills and habits needed to reach such a long-term goal and choose one that’s realistic to focus on this year.
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At the end of the first day, introduce students to learning goals in closing circle-a daily gathering before dismissal that helps students end the day on a positive note and feel energized about their learning.The challenge is to help them set learning goals that they truly care about and can realistically achieve in school this year. To help students get enthusiastic about school right away, invite them to begin thinking about their hopes and dreams early in the first week of school. Post students’ hopes and dreams on the classroom bulletin board for all to see. By the end of that week, students can share their learning goal with the class.Have students write down and illustrate that goal (with help from you and other adults in the room as needed). By the following week, everyone should be ready to choose one learning goal that’s most important to them.For example, if a student says “I want to read all the books in the library,” you can respond with “Sounds like you want to do a lot of reading this year. If any goals seem unrealistic, coach students in rethinking.Stretching this process over several days gives ideas a chance to percolate and sends the message that sorting out learning goals is important work, not something to rush. Keep each brainstorming session short, about five to ten minutes. Over the next few days, continue to list students’ ideas as they share.What are some of your hopes and dreams for the year?” Give examples of your own hopes and dreams, such as “This year, I hope our classroom will be a place where all of you find enjoyment and get to work at things that really matter to you.” With this guidance, even students this young can turn a vague statement about why people come to school, such as “To do things like write,” into a realistic learning goal: “I want to learn to write a story.”
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To guide them, say, “Today we’re going to make another list.