Setting Academic Goals
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2Setting Academic Goals
Directions: Read these step-by-step instructions for setting academic goals for the semester. Analyze the SETTING
ACADEMIC GOALS (EXAMPLE), then select
one subject and use the syllabus of the course to complete the
SETTING ACADEMIC GOALS (ASSIGNMENT). You may use this form for other subjects as well.
1.
List all your courses and the grade you want in each one.
Set your goals high, but also be realistic. Aiming for an A in a class in your major may be an appropriate
goal, but you may be satisfied with a C in a required course in an area that is particularly difficult for you.
Base your expectations on an honest assessment of your background in each subject and the amount of
time and energy you're willing to spend.
2.
For each class, list tasks you must complete to make the desired grade.
Include tests and quizzes, papers and projects, presentations, attendance, class participation. Most of this
information will be in your class syllabus.
3.
List the percent of the final course grade and the due date for each activity.
4.
List specific activities you will have to do to make your course grade.
Include target grades for exams and papers, steps for strengthening weak areas in your background, and
resources you will use. Also include specific study habits you will need to add to your routine.
5.
As you complete each task, record your actual grade.
Look again at the uncompleted tasks. You may have to revise your expectations, depending on what you
have actually accomplished. For example, an exam grade lower than you had planned will necessitate either
higher grades on later tests or a revision of your final goal. Likewise, grades higher than expected can be
seen either as a cushion for the future or an invitation to set higher goals for yourself.
6.
Remind yourself of your goals.
Post your list of expectations in a conspicuous place. You don't want to lose sight of where you want to go.
Reward yourself for successes along the way.
Setting Academic Goals (Example)
Semester: Fall 2009
Class: American History
Desired Grade: B
% of Final
Actual
Activity
Due Date
What I Have To Do
Grade
Grade
score 80-90
Midterm Exam
25%
October 15
work with tutor
Class
read ahead
10%
All Term
keep up
Participation
attend all classes
earn B to B+
November
finish it on time
Term Paper
25%
30
start by Oct. 30
rough draft done by Nov. 15.
earn B to A
Oral Report
15%
December 5
written by Dec. 2
practice in front of a mirror
score 80-90
Final Exam
25%
December 19
start review Dec. 12
set up study group
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