This article is designed to be utilized with the utmost professional integrity and ethical consideration. It is imperative to acknowledge that directly copying and pasting example goals into student’s IEPs from any external source, including ours, undermines the individualized nature of IEP planning and does not serve the best interests of students.
This resource aims to inspire the development of IEP goals that address the needs of students, not a substitute for the detailed, student-centered IEP goal setting process. Educators and IEP teams are urged to use this as a tool for ideation, basing final goals on student assessments and collaborative IEP team insights.
Reading is more than just recognizing words on a page—it’s about understanding and engaging with the text in meaningful ways. Many students struggle with this crucial skill, making it essential for educators and support professionals to focus on effective strategies for improving comprehension.
If you’re a teacher (or perhaps somebody who has struggled with reading yourself), you know just how essential strong reading comprehension skills are for success in both academic and everyday life. But you also likely recognize how challenging it can be to develop and refine this skill over time.
Writing IEP goals for reading comprehension for high school students, elementary students, or even middle schoolers is a valuable skill that can significantly support your students’ success.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to do just that, and give you some sample IEP reading comprehension goals you can use to get yourself started.
Click here to jump down to the IEP goals.
What is Reading Comprehension?
Reading comprehension is more than just recognizing words on a page. It’s the ability to understand, interpret, and engage with the text in meaningful ways. Unlike elements such as phonics or decoding—which focus on identifying and sounding out words—comprehension dives deeper into grasping the meaning behind those words.
Think of it this way: phonics helps you read the phrase “the cat is on the mat,” but comprehension lets you understand not only what the sentence says but why it matters in the context of the story. It’s about connecting ideas, perceiving relationships within the text, and applying that understanding to other situations.
This high-level processing is absolutely necessary for academic success, yet many students—especially those who are neurodivergent or have learning disabilities—struggle with it.
Comprehension challenges often stem from difficulties in deciphering meaning or applying strategies to make sense of unfamiliar concepts.
Thankfully, by setting specific IEP reading comprehension goals, you can simplify this complex skill set. Breaking it down into manageable learning objectives ensures that each student’s individual needs are met effectively.
What Are Examples of Reading Comprehension?
Building good reading comprehension involves mastering several interconnected skills. Here’s a closer look at the essential elements that contribute to effective understanding of a text.
Vocabulary and Word Knowledge
A strong vocabulary is the foundation of comprehension. If students don’t understand individual words, making sense of sentences becomes impossible.
By expanding word knowledge through direct instruction and exposure to language, students can identify familiar terms and decipher new ones using context clues.
Key Ideas and Details
Every text has a central idea and supporting details that explain or enhance it. Students must get ample practice in identifying these key points, whether from a science textbook, a short story, or a news article. Learning how to extract relevant details helps students focus on the key message of a passage.
Text Structure and Organization
Texts have patterns – chronological order, cause-and-effect, compare-and-contrast, etc. Recognizing these structures makes it easier for students to predict upcoming content and better organize the information they’re consuming.
Inference and Interpretation
Not everything needs to be explicitly stated. Inferring means reading “between the lines” and using context clues to draw conclusions. For example, if a story describes someone opening an umbrella while walking outside, the student can infer that it’s raining.
Integration of Knowledge and Ideas
This involves taking information from multiple sources—or different parts of the same text—and synthesizing it into a more cohesive understanding.
Students might relate a nonfiction passage about plants, for example, to their prior knowledge of biology or compare two articles that offer opposing viewpoints on a topic.
Fluency
Many people equate fluency to speed, but it’s more complicated than that. It also has to do with accuracy, rhythm, and expression. Fluent readers can focus on meaning rather than laboring through pronunciation, which makes comprehension easier and more natural.
Summarization and Reflection
Summarizing teaches students to filter out unnecessary details, identifying only what truly matters in a text. Reflection takes it one step further, encouraging students to connect what they read with personal experiences or broader concepts, deepening their understanding along the way.
Why is Reading Comprehension Important?
You probably already recognize how important reading comprehension is for academic success, but many students, particularly those with disabilities, struggle with it. The 2022 National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP) indicated that, among fourth graders, 32% of students without disabilities were below Basic proficiency in reading.
That’s concerning in and of itself, but this statistic doubles for those with disabilities, with a shocking 70% scoring below Basic level. Unfortunately, this isn’t something that tends to get better with time, as the problem persists into eighth grade. 25% of non-disabled students fall behind compared to 64% of students with disabilities.
These statistics highlight the significant literacy gap in our schools and the need for instruction that acknowledges diverse learning needs, including different approaches that support neurodivergent students. The encouraging news is that evidence suggests teaching comprehension strategies improves understanding, especially for high school students with learning disabilities.
Self-questioning strategies, for instance, not only assist students during reading but also help them engage with the text more effectively.
Outside of the classroom, reading comprehension remains important long into our adult lives. Whether it’s comprehending a job application or analyzing a news article, students must be able to read. Without solid reading comprehension skills, they may find it challenging to analyze texts, interpret important information, and apply their understanding in real-world situations such as following instructions, engaging in discussions, or making informed decisions.
69 Reading Comprehension IEP Goals
Vocabulary and Word Knowledge
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a grade-level passage, [Student Name] will identify the meaning of unfamiliar words using context clues with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when provided a list of vocabulary words, [Student Name] will define each word using a dictionary or glossary with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 4 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a sentence, [Student Name] will determine a word’s meaning using its prefix or suffix with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given text containing figurative language, [Student Name] will interpret the meaning of figurative phrases with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 4 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when presented synonyms and antonyms in text, [Student Name] will identify and explain them with 90% accuracy in 4 out of 5 instances in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when provided a passage, [Student Name] will summarize the main idea and supporting details with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 4 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when encountering unfamiliar vocabulary, [Student Name] will use context clues to determine meaning with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a writing prompt, [Student Name] will construct a paragraph with clear topic sentences and supporting details with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 5 attempts in writing sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading complex sentences, [Student Name] will correctly identify the subject and predicate with 95% accuracy in 4 out of 5 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
You can find more vocabulary IEP goals here.
Key Idea and Details
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a grade-level passage, [Student Name] will identify the main idea with 85% accuracy in 4 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when asked to summarize, [Student Name] will provide key details with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 4 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading a passage, [Student Name] will answer “why” questions about key events with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 5 sessions in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a multi-paragraph text, [Student Name] will identify supporting details for the main idea with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 4 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when asked inference questions, [Student Name] will draw logical conclusions from evidence with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when provided a writing prompt, [Student Name] will compose a coherent paragraph including a topic sentence, supporting details, and a concluding sentence with 85% accuracy in 4 out of 5 trials in writing sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given vocabulary words, [Student Name] will define and use each word in complete sentences with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 4 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading fiction or nonfiction, [Student Name] will compare and contrast key themes or characters with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 sessions in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
Text Structure and Organization
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading nonfiction, [Student Name] will identify its organizational structure (e.g., cause/effect, compare/contrast) with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 4 instances in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a text, [Student Name] will create an outline identifying its introduction, body, and conclusion with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 practices in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when asked, [Student Name] will define relationships among events, ideas, or concepts with 90% accuracy in 4 out of 5 sessions in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading a passage, [Student Name] will identify transition words that connect ideas with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 4 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when presented two written works, [Student Name] will compare and contrast their structures with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when provided key terms, [Student Name] will predict meanings using context with 85% accuracy in 4 out of 5 sessions in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when analyzing text, [Student Name] will distinguish facts from opinions with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 4 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a writing prompt, [Student Name] will organize ideas with a graphic organizer with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 sessions in writing classes as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reviewing a passage, [Student Name] will identify the main idea and supporting details with 90% accuracy in 4 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
Inferencing and Interpretation
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a narrative passage, [Student Name] will infer characters’ emotions or motivations with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 demonstrations in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading informational text, [Student Name] will infer the author’s purpose with 85% accuracy in 4 out of 5 instances in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when analyzing implied meanings, [Student Name] will cite evidence to justify inferences with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 4 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading poetry or figurative passages, [Student Name] will interpret deeper meanings with 75% accuracy in 3 out of 5 practices in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when asked about themes, [Student Name] will infer central ideas with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 sessions in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
Curious about spelling’s role in comprehension? See these IEP reading comprehension goals.
Integration of Knowledge and Ideas
- By the end of the IEP period, when presented two texts on the same topic, [Student Name] will compare perspectives with 85% accuracy in 4 out of 5 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading a passage and viewing a related chart, [Student Name] will analyze how the graphic clarifies text with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 4 instances in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given multimedia sources, [Student Name] will integrate information to draw conclusions with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 practices in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when evaluating two opposing arguments, [Student Name] will identify similarities and differences with 75% accuracy in 3 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading persuasive text, [Student Name] will analyze argument strength using textual evidence with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 4 sessions in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading complex text, [Student Name] will determine the main idea and summarize concisely with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when analyzing fiction, [Student Name] will identify character motivations and their impact on plot with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 practices in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a historical document, [Student Name] will evaluate the author’s perspective with 75% accuracy in 3 out of 4 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when writing an argumentative essay, [Student Name] will develop a clear thesis supported by evidence with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 essays in writing sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when participating in group discussions, [Student Name] will articulate a viewpoint and engage respectfully with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 5 sessions in classroom discussions as measured by teacher data collection.
Critical Thinking and Evaluation
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading a persuasive article, [Student Name] will evaluate the credibility of its arguments with 85% accuracy in 4 out of 5 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a news article, [Student Name] will identify author bias or point of view with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 4 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when presented an argumentative text, [Student Name] will assess whether evidence supports claims with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 5 instances in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when analyzing fiction, [Student Name] will explain how setting impacts the plot with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 4 efforts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading mixed-media texts, [Student Name] will distinguish fact from opinion with 85% accuracy in 4 out of 5 demonstrations in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading informational text, [Student Name] will identify the main idea and two supporting details with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 4 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading persuasive text, [Student Name] will infer the author’s purpose and provide evidence with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 cases in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when crafting a narrative, [Student Name] will include three sensory details with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 4 attempts in writing sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when using context clues, [Student Name] will determine unfamiliar word meanings with 90% accuracy in 4 out of 5 occurrences in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when performing comparative analysis, [Student Name] will list two similarities and two differences with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 5 efforts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when using a graphic organizer before writing an essay, [Student Name] will structure ideas with 95% accuracy in 4 out of 5 attempts in writing sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when revising writing, [Student Name] will correct grammar and improve coherence with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 4 drafts in writing sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
Fluency and Understanding
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading aloud, [Student Name] will use appropriate pacing and expression with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 trials in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading grade-level text, [Student Name] will self-monitor and correct misunderstandings with 90% accuracy in 4 out of 5 sessions in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading independently, [Student Name] will preview text features to improve comprehension with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 instances in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when text is confusing, [Student Name] will identify and clarify difficult sections with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 4 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, while reading, [Student Name] will summarize sections at intervals with 80% accuracy in 4 out of 5 exercises in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when using context clues, [Student Name] will determine unfamiliar word meanings with 85% accuracy in 4 out of 5 exercises in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when comparing two texts on the same topic, [Student Name] will note similarities and differences with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 assignments in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading a paragraph, [Student Name] will identify the main idea and supporting details with 90% accuracy in 4 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
Looking for more in-depth reading fluency goals? We’ve got you covered.
Summarization and Reflection
- By the end of the IEP period, when given a long passage, [Student Name] will summarize main events or ideas with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reading informational text, [Student Name] will restate central themes in their own words with 90% accuracy in 3 out of 4 tries in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when asked about narrative, [Student Name] will explain cause-and-effect relationships with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 exercises in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when reflecting on reading, [Student Name] will write a brief journal entry connecting text to personal experience with 75% completion in 3 out of 5 trials in writing sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when in group discussion, [Student Name] will accurately summarize peers’ points with 85% accuracy in 3 out of 4 instances in classroom discussions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, during independent reading, [Student Name] will identify and define five unfamiliar words from text with 90% accuracy in 4 out of 5 attempts in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, when analyzing character motivations, [Student Name] will provide textual evidence with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 4 exercises in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
- By the end of the IEP period, after reading a passage, [Student Name] will create a concept map illustrating key ideas with 85% completion in 3 out of 5 activities in classroom reading sessions as measured by teacher data collection.
How Do You Write IEP Goals for Reading Comprehension?
Creating IEP goals for reading comprehension involves crafting objectives that are tailored to your student’s specific needs. These goals should clearly specify the task, skill level, and measurable outcomes.
Here’s a simple formula you can use to structure your goals:
When given [instruction or task], the student will [demonstrate skill or behavior] with __% accuracy in __ out of __ trials [within a given time period].
For instance:
9 Evidence-Based Tips for Teaching Reading Comprehension
Improving reading comprehension isn’t just about reading. It involves engaging students through interactive discussions, guided questioning, and modeling effective comprehension strategies. Applying research and strategy further enhances their understanding. Below are some evidence-based tips to help your students become more effective readers.
1. Focus on Core Strategies
Teach students to identify the text structure, pinpoint the main idea, and summarize it by elaborating on details. These basic skills are foundational for connecting concepts and enhancing comprehension.
For example, when studying informational text, asking students to recognize cause-and-effect relationships can improve their ability to organize information in their minds.
2. Teach Pre-Reading Techniques
Before your students even read the first sentence, set the stage. Have them preview the text by examining headings, visuals, and key terms. Encourage activating prior knowledge by asking what they already know about the topic.
Another useful trick? Ask students to make predictions about the text—it gives them a purpose for reading and helps keep them engaged.
3. Practice Identifying the Main Idea for Every Section of Texts
Teach students to pause after each section of text to highlight or jot down its main idea. This can help prevent cognitive overload by chunking the material into smaller, comprehensible parts.
Encourage them to create a mental hierarchy of information where main ideas and supporting details are categorized logically.
4. Use Texts That Pique Student Interest
Students are more likely to disengage if the material doesn’t interest them. Find texts that are age-appropriate and interesting to your learners. Whether it’s an article about TikTok trends or a story about science experiments, personal relevance can help students connect to the material.
5. Ask Students to Summarize or Retell What They’ve Read
Summarizing what they’ve just read helps students process and organize their thoughts. Have them retell the story or information in their own words to check for understanding—this also reinforces retention.
6. Break Reading Into Chunks
Presenting large text blocks can overwhelm students. Break assignments into manageable chunks and work through them one section at a time. This approach also allows for frequent comprehension checks to ensure they’re grasping key points as they go.
7. Teach Students How to Make Notes, Write Outlines, or Create Diagrams
Use graphic organizers like flow charts or Venn diagrams to help students visualize connections between ideas. Introduce annotating, where they underline main points, circle unfamiliar words, and jot down quick questions to prompt active engagement.
8. Incorporate the Practice of Metacognition
Encourage your students to think about how they’re thinking.
Teach them to ask themselves self-monitoring questions like, “Does this make sense?” or “What should I do if I don’t understand this section?” Metacognition promotes independence and helps students take ownership of their learning.
9. Teach Self-Monitoring
One of the most important things you can do is to help students recognize when they’re struggling by teaching them simple strategies like re-reading difficult sections or asking clarifying questions.
Prompt them to pause and evaluate their understanding as they progress through a passage. This is a core executive functioning skill that can help your students thrive as developing readers.
And if you need more help teaching self-monitoring skills, here’s your go-to guide.
Data Tracking Methods for Reading Comprehension
Tracking your students’ progress in reading comprehension can be challenging, as it is a skill that continually develops over time. Monitoring their growth with clear benchmarks can provide valuable insights into their progress. However, there are some pieces of qualitative and quantitative data you can use to monitor their improvements.
Running records, for example, provide detailed snapshots of a student’s fluency and comprehension during live reading sessions. Be sure to note missteps and self-corrections.
You should also give regular comprehension quizzes. After students complete reading passages, use quick quizzes to measure how well they grasped the main idea, vocabulary, and key details.
Last but not least, take time to review your students’ notes and diagrams from the reading tasks they’ve completed. While these don’t need to be elaborate or fancy by any means, you should evaluate them to assess their understanding of the text structure and main ideas.
Measuring Progress for Reading Comprehension IEP Goals
So, how do you know if your IEP goals are effective? Don’t forget that observation is just as important as formal assessment. You can measure your students’ progress by setting and evaluating clear benchmarks.
Some examples:
- Frequent Check-Ins: Use regular one-on-one sessions or group activities to evaluate comprehension through discussions or written summaries.
- Skill-Tracking Sheets: Create a checklist that tracks how well a student performs specific skills like identifying main ideas or using context clues over time.
- Benchmark Assessments: These standardized tests provide quantifiable data on student growth across different phases of the academic year.
Final Thoughts
Teaching reading comprehension doesn’t always require complex techniques or specialized tools, though some students may benefit from additional support tailored to their needs. It’s about knowing your students, being consistent, and having a solid strategy in place.
By setting specific, personally-tailored IEP reading comprehension goals, you’ll provide your students with the tools they need for long-term success.
Remember, every reader is continuously growing—and your dedication makes all the difference.
FAQ
What is a good reading comprehension IEP goal?
A strong reading comprehension IEP goal is clear, measurable, and tailored to the student. For example, “When given a grade-level passage, the student will identify the main idea and provide two supporting details with 80% accuracy in 3 out of 5 trials.”
Can you get an IEP for reading comprehension?
Yes! Struggles with reading comprehension often qualify a student for an Individualized Education Program if it significantly impacts their learning.
What is the IEP goal for reading CVC words?
An example goal might be, “The student will blend CVC (consonant-vowel-consonant) words during guided reading with 95% accuracy in 4 out of 5 trials.”
What is the ultimate goal of reading comprehension?
The ultimate goal here is for students to independently understand, interpret, and think critically about written material in a way that’s meaningful to their lives and learning.
Further Reading
- Pierce, Rebekah: 42 Decoding IEP Goals To Boost Reading Skills
- IRIS Center: Comprehension Strategies
- Peltier, Tiffany: The science of teaching reading comprehension
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: Reading Comprehension Tips
- IRIS Center: Teach Comprehension Strategies
- The McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning: Active Reading Strategies: Remember and Analyze What You Read
- Arizona State University: Discover Essential Reading Comprehension Tips for Literacy Specialists
- Life Skills Advocate: 100+ Free Executive Functioning IEP Goals | Life Skills Advocate
- Pierce, Rebekah: 8 Self-Monitoring IEP Goals For Real Life