Let’s be honest — writing IEP goals can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially when it comes to understanding the difference between annual goals, objectives, and benchmarks. In this episode, Stephanie breaks it all down so you can finally feel confident and clear about what you’re writing and why it matters.

You’ll learn how the annual goal acts as the big-picture target for the year, while objectives break that goal into smaller, manageable skills that build toward success. Benchmarks, on the other hand, show progress over time within that same skill — helping you track growth without adding extra complexity.

Stephanie shares real-life examples from math, reading, and writing, and walks through how to write each piece using S.M.A.R.T. criteria, so your goals are not just paperwork but meaningful guides for your teaching.

This episode also tackles the common confusion between objectives and benchmarks, what your state might require, and why writing clear, scaffolded goals makes your life easier—from lesson planning to progress monitoring and communicating with families.

If you want to stop guessing and start writing goals that truly support your students’ growth, this episode is a must-listen.

And don’t forget — you can get 50% off your first month of membership https://products.theintentionaliep.com/tii-membership-50off1stmonth-podcast/

For more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:

https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/

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