Build a four-square map for a new word
When to use this goal
For students who can give a dictionary-like definition but cannot tell what fits a word and what does not. A four-square word map (definition in own words, example, non-example, sentence) checks depth. Base the choice on vocabulary work samples and class performance.
- Baseline
- Score three word maps for taught words the student has not practiced in a map. Non-examples are often the weakest row; note whether the student gives an opposite (useful) or an unrelated word (less useful).
- Tips
- Score each map on the four rows. Responses can be spoken, written, drawn, or typed. A non-example that is close to the word (a lake for "ocean") scores higher than an unrelated one. Use the routine across classes for consistency.
- Limits
- Map quality depends on how well the word was taught; probe words should have had similar instruction. The map does not show use in conversation or writing.
Original IEP Atlas template based on general measurement principles; not copied from any goal bank. ID sl-sem-037.
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Goal
By the annual IEP review date, given a newly taught word and a blank four-square map, the student will complete each square of the word map for the new word independently, earning a score of at least 7 out of 8 on an 8-point word map rubric, on 3 consecutive probe words, as measured by a defined scoring rubric collected every two weeks.
Baseline: 3 out of 8 rubric points.
- Condition
- Observable behavior
- Criterion
- Measurement method
Measurability check11 of 11 met
Met: Observable behavior. Stated as an action.
Met: Condition. Stated.
Met: Unit fits the behavior. Rubric score fits this behavior.
Met: Explicit criterion. Number and unit stated.
Met: Mastery rule and schedule. Both stated.
Met: Method produces the metric. Rubric scoring gives rubric score data.
Met: Review timeframe. Stated.
Met: Baseline and target compatible. Same unit, change in the right direction.
Met: Aligned with area of need. Still about Vocabulary & Semantics.
Met: Level of support. Defined.
Met: Blanks filled in. Nothing left to fill in.
Checks structure and wording only. Whether the goal fits the student is the team's call.
Short-term objectives (optional)
When are objectives required?Required for students on alternate assessments (34 CFR §300.320(a)(2)(ii)); some states require them for everyone.
Paste into your IEP system
Most district systems have a separate box for each part of a goal. Copy them one at a time, or all at once as labeled text.
- Area of need
- Speech & Language - Vocabulary & Semantics
- Baseline
- 3 out of 8 rubric points.
- Annual goal338 characters
- By the annual IEP review date, given a newly taught word and a blank four-square map, the student will complete each square of the word map for the new word independently, earning a score of at least 7 out of 8 on an 8-point word map rubric, on 3 consecutive probe words, as measured by a defined scoring rubric collected every two weeks.
- Timeframe
- By the annual IEP review date
- Condition
- Given a newly taught word and a blank four-square map
- Behavior
- The student will complete each square of the word map for the new word independently
- Criteria
- Earning a score of at least 7 out of 8 on an 8-point word map rubric, on 3 consecutive probe words
- Evaluation method
- A defined scoring rubric
- Schedule
- Every two weeks
Copied as plain text, with straight quotes and plain dashes.
Matching data sheet
Rubric tracker. Scores each rubric criterion and totals them.
Rubric tracker
Rubric score- Student label:
- Target:
- earning a score of at least 7 out of 8 on an 8-point word map rubric
- Mastery rule:
- on 3 consecutive probe words
- Collection schedule:
- every two weeks
- Method:
- Rubric scoring
- Data collector:
Goal: By the annual IEP review date, given a newly taught word and a blank four-square map, the student will complete each square of the word map for the new word independently, earning a score of at least 7 out of 8 on an 8-point word map rubric, on 3 consecutive probe words, as measured by a defined scoring rubric collected every two weeks.
| Date | Task / sample | Definition in own words (0 to 2) | Fitting example (0 to 2) | Clear non-example (0 to 2) | Sentence that shows the meaning (0 to 2) | Total (of 8) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Preview shows 4 of 12 rows.
- Score each sample with an 8-point word map rubric. Attach or reference the rubric's score descriptors.
- Use the same prompt type and conditions for each scored sample.
- If two people score, check agreement on a few samples before relying on the data.
The CSV opens in Excel or Google Sheets, with formulas. Sheets print blank; no student data is stored.