What is an IEP Goal?

IEP goals are written to address an educationally based need that affects educational performance in an adverse way, and which needs improvement to enable learning of the general curriculum. Goals and measurable objectives are very important to determine if a child is making progress. They are the primary means for seeing if a child's needs are being appropriately met.

To determine if a child has achieved the goal, it must be objectively measurable.

Observations by teachers and classroom grades are not valid forms of measurement. These forms of measurement have been deemed inappropriate measures of progress by the courts. Teachers can "observe" successes, but they should do so by using data tracking sheets, supplying objective documentation.

There are many instructional areas that should be considered for goal development:

• Assistive Technology
• Daily Living Skills
• Behavioral Modifications
• Occupational Therapy
• Speech-Language Therapy
• Physical Therapy

Of course not every child will need goals in every area. And not every area being addressed will need goals. Goals should be developed for areas in which a child will be actively working on during the school year.


Related Articles:
The "Goal Bank" a 177 page PDF document from the Bend-la Pine school district in Redmond, Oregon, this document includes examples of goals for the following areas: English, Functional Academics, Independent Living, Math, Math Readiness, Motor Skills, Recreation and Leisure, Self-Management, Daily Living, Social/Emotional, Speech and Language, Study Skills and Vocational/Career Education. This is a real must read document.