Guide to Writing Language Objectives

1
Guide to Writing Language Objectives

• Oakhurst Elementary
• September 2009

2
What is a Language Objective?

• A language objective states how students will be
  able to express what they have learned in English.

3
What is the format of a Language Objective?

• WIDA format for a language objective
• Language function, Content stem, Support.

4
What are examples of Language Functions?

• Hypothesize
• Paraphrase
• Explain
• Make a connection
• Compare/Contrast
• Narrate
• Compose
• Summarize
• Defend
• Justify

• List
• Label
• Repeat
• Restate
• Form a question
• State
• Retell
• Define
• Describe
• Give an Example

5
What is a Content Stem?

• This is the content you will are working on in
  class according to the North Carolina Standard
  Course of Study.
• Examples from Fourth Grade
• English 3.01 Examine reasons for characters
  actions
• Math 3.01 Identify symmetry in two-dimensional
  shapes
• Science 3.01 Investigate the pull of magnets
• Social Studies. 3.01 Assess changes in ways of
  living in North Carolina over time.

6
What are examples of Language Supports?

• Video Clips
• Models Figures
• Charts
• Graphic Organizers
• Timelines
• Number lines
• In pairs or partners
• In triads or Small Groups
• Using the Internet
• With Mentors
• Acting it out

• Real life objects
• Manipulatives
• Pictures Photographs
• Illustrations
• Diagrams
• Color coding
• Dictating to a partner
• Audio books
• Magazines Newspapers

7
How do I put it all together?

• Choose a content stem you are working on, then
  add a language function and a support.
• Examples from Fourth Grade
• List reasons for characters actions using a
  graphic organizer.
• Give examples of symmetry in two-dimensional
  shapes from magazines.
• Describe the pull of magnets on classroom
  objects.
• Summarize the changes in ways of living in North
  Carolina over time using a timeline.

8
Now you try!

• Choose a NCSCOS topic you are currently studying
  in class.
• Add a language function
• Add a support
• Remember to consider the language proficiency
  levels of your students and the next level for
  growth.

9
Now that Ive written the Language Objective, how
do I support it?

• Consider the vocabulary and sentence structures
  students will need to use.
• Model how to meet the language objective.
• Use think-a-loud while modeling.
• Have students practice speaking with a partner.
• Create illustrated word walls.
• Provide sentence and paragraph frames.
• Provide sample written products

10
Final thoughts

• If students dont practice using academic
  language with us, where else will they gain this
  ability?
• College professors say that the greatest obstacle
  for entering freshmen is the ability to express
  academic thought orally and in writing.