Embedding IEP Goals and Objectives

Creating a schedule that works for you and your students is tricky. First, list the goals/objectives you want to focus on. Decide the most appropriate times of the day when you could embed those objectives/goals into naturally occuring routines.

For example, if the goal is to recognize colors receptively, join the child in the block area and request different colored blocks as they play. If the goal is to request a preferred item, give choices during snack time and play time and wait for a response.

Most students need to transition activities every 15 minutes. Consider a rotation of teacher-time that gives each student 15 minutes with you to receive explicit instruction and goal-work.

To make it easier, you can create small group rotation for students who have similar goals. DO use your staff to collect data and assist with rotations.

Embedding is creating opportunities for teaching IEP goals/objectives within the natural schedule of the day.

• Child's Age: 3-5, 6-10, 11-13, 14-17
• Planning Effort: Moderate
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Ability to reach IEP goals

1. Think about each activity throughout your day (i.e. large group circle, play, transition to outside). List IEP goals/objectives you want to embed. You may want to use a matrix (see example) by listing the IEP goals/objectives on the side of the paper and the times/activities at the top.

2. Identify the best 3 activities (for example) for embedding each IEP goal/objective.

3. Decide if each chosen activity has what you need or if you will need to add materials. Plan accordingly.

4. Practice the skill routinely in the pre-designated activities (i.e. child counts the children in circle group – IEP goal: counting to 10; child chooses a friend to walk with when going to snack, outside, and back to the classroom; IEP goal: chooses a friend by name).