Writing SIOP Objectives Quiz

Which of the following is a **strong** content objective?

• Students will understand how to solve two-digit addition problems.

• Students will solve two-digit addition problems using base-ten blocks.

• Students will learn about addition and subtraction.

• Students will know how to add and subtract numbers.

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'Students will solve two-digit addition problems using base-ten blocks,' is strong because it specifies a clear action and method, focusing on a specific skill and tool for learning.

Which of these language objectives is **weak**?

• Students will write a summary of the main idea using key vocabulary words.

• Students will explain in writing the main idea using a graphic organizer.

• Students will show understanding of a story.

• Students will verbally explain how to compare fractions using sentence frames.

Answer explanation

The objective 'Students will show understanding of a story' is weak because it is too vague. It lacks specificity and measurable criteria, unlike the other options that include specific and measurable verbs.

What makes this objective **weak**? "Students will know the three branches of government."

• It is too broad and not measurable.

• It is written in student-friendly language.

• It uses an action verb.

• It clearly states what students will do.

Answer explanation

The objective is weak because the verb "know" is too broad and not measurable. Simply stating that students will 'know' the branches does not specify how their understanding will be assessed or demonstrated.

Which of these content objectives is **strong**?

• Students will investigate the causes of the American Revolution using primary source documents.

• Students will learn about the causes of the American Revolution.

• Students will be able to know about historical events.

• Students will understand the importance of history.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is strong because it includes a specific measurable action, that is, it requires students to actively investigate causes using primary sources. The verbs "learn," "know," and "understand" are vague and hard to measure.

Why is this objective **weak**? "Students will demonstrate comprehension of fractions."

• It does not focus on a language skill.

• It does not include a measurable action.

• It is not a complete sentence.

• It is not related to the content being taught.

Answer explanation

The objective is weak because it lacks a measurable action. Phrases like 'demonstrate comprehension' are vague and do not specify how students will show their understanding, making assessment difficult.

"Students will identify the main idea of a short story by selecting the correct response from a multiple-choice list."

• Content Objective

• Language Objective

Answer explanation

The task of identifying the main idea of a short story aligns with a Content Objective, as it focuses on understanding and analyzing the text. Language Objectives would involve skills related to communication and language use.

"Students will write a persuasive letter using at least three supporting arguments."

• Content Objective

• Language Objective

Answer explanation

The task requires students to write a persuasive letter, which focuses on their ability to use language effectively. This aligns with a Language Objective, as it emphasizes communication skills and argumentation.

"Students will solve word problems using division strategies."

• Content Objective

• Language Objective

Answer explanation

The statement describes a specific learning goal related to mathematical content, focusing on division strategies (focus on academic skills).

"Students will listen to an audio recording and summarize the key points orally."

• Content Objective

• Language Objective

Answer explanation

The task focuses on summarizing key points orally, which emphasizes language skills such as speaking and comprehension.

Which of the following is a **state standard**?

• Students will describe the sequence of events in a story.

• Students wil write argumentative pieces on topics and/or texts, supporting a point of view with evidence and information.

• Students will summarize a fable using transition words.

• Students will complete a graphic organizer to analyze a story.

Answer explanation

The correct choice corresponds to Standard 4.W.1. Standards are broader, guiding year-long learning, while objectives are lesson-specific.