The Science of Goal Setting

Bridget Yurgel

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

The Science of Goal Setting

Understand goal setting and motivation

This lesson explores the psychological and neuroscientific aspects of goal setting, helping students understand how the brain processes goals and motivation. Understanding these concepts is crucial for students as it empowers them to set effective goals and stay motivated, which are essential skills for academic success and personal growth.

Audience

11th Grade Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Understand goal setting and motivation

Materials

Discussion Questions, Worksheet on Goal Setting, and Quiz on Goal Setting Concepts

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what goals are and why they are important.
Ask students to share a personal goal they have set in the past.

Step 2

Exploration of Goal Setting

10 mins

Introduce the psychological aspects of goal setting, such as SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
Discuss the role of motivation in achieving goals.

Step 3

Neuroscience of Goal Setting

10 mins

Explain how the brain processes goals and the role of neurotransmitters like dopamine in motivation.
Use examples to illustrate how setting goals can activate brain pathways.

Step 4

Group Activity

10 mins

Divide students into small groups and provide them with a worksheet on goal setting.
Have each group create a goal using the SMART criteria and discuss how they would stay motivated.

Step 5

Quiz and Discussion

5 mins

Distribute a short quiz to assess understanding of the concepts covered.
Conclude with a discussion on how students can apply these concepts to their own lives.

Step 6

Closure

5 mins

Recap the key points of the lesson.
Encourage students to set a new personal goal using the techniques learned.

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Discussion

Discussion Questions on Goal Setting

A set of questions to facilitate a discussion on the importance and process of goal setting.

What is a goal you have set in the past, and how did you achieve it?

Encourage students to think about the steps they took and the challenges they faced.

Why do you think motivation is important in achieving goals?

Discuss the role of motivation in maintaining focus and overcoming obstacles.

Worksheet

Worksheet on Goal Setting

A worksheet to help students practice setting goals using the SMART criteria.

Define a personal goal using the SMART criteria.

Think about how your goal is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

List three strategies you will use to stay motivated towards achieving your goal.

Consider what has worked for you in the past or new strategies you want to try.

Quiz

Quiz on Goal Setting Concepts