In this post you will find:

• a routine that can be used to provide multiple ways to represent the learning goal
• an example of how to you this routine
• a free template for the routine

A strategy that is talked a lot about in professional learning for UDL is the notion of plus one. This means that as educators, the intention is to not over haul our pedagogy to implement UDL but just make small changes over time. In this series we are going to provide examples of small routines that demonstrate the UDL principles and that could easily be implemented in learning spaces tomorrow. So let’s take a look at a learning goal routine.

A clear goal is the very foundation of effective curriculum (Meyer, Rose, & Gordon, 2014). Why not represent the learning goal in multiple ways for learners? This routine supports learners to know and have a clear example of what they will be able to do by the end of the lesson as well as representing the learning goal in many ways.

What it is

In this simple, yet effective routine the learning goal is presented to the learners in a clear and learner friendly language. The learning goal is stated by the teacher and the learners repeat it and then tell their partner. There is also an example of what the learning goal will look like so learners have a really clear understanding of what they will know or do. This routine helps improve motivation because learners can become overwhelmed by a learning goal even when it is in learner friendly language. An example of what the goal will look like helps ease learner anxiety about what the goal will look like. A lot of the time learners will say, “That I can do!”

How it Aligns to the Guidelines

Recruiting Interest

This routine helps minimise threats for learners. We know that when we can reduce perceived or actual threats there is more space for learning. By allowing learners to see an example of success, they have more clarity on what is expected of them.

Sustaining Effort & Persistence

Some learners require support for remembering the goal (CAST, 2018). By encouraging learners to repeat the goal and tell the goal to another, they are hearing the goal a number of times. The more time they hear and see the goal, the more likely they are to remember it throughout the lesson.

Perception

This routine represents information through written, auditory and visual means therefore more learners can access and comprehend the learning goal than if it was just stated. For some learners, the visual is their learner friendly language.

Want to get started straight away? Head over to our Tes Shop and grab a copy of this template for free!

Why not try this routine at the beginning of your lessons and see if it improves learner engagement and motivation?

Until next time,

Happy educating,

Sam

References

CAST. (2018). UDL: Sustaining Effort & Persistence. The UDL Guidelines. Retrieved May 9, 2024, from https://udlguidelines.cast.org/engagement/effort-persistence

Meyer, A., Rose, D., & Gordon, D. (2014). Universal Design for Learning: Theory and Practice. Wakefield, MA: CAST.

• plus one