My study focused on understanding how students, especially those with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Multilingual Language Learners (MLLs), could be better supported through co-constructing learning intentions and success criteria. Pre-implementation data was collected via surveys to assess students' understanding of content, confidence in learning, clarity around instructions, and feedback received. This data helped tailor strategies to clarify the purpose of learning intentions and success criteria, ensuring students could assess their learning progress and determine needed support.
Students were initially assessed with a pre-assessment embedded in the curriculum and a 4-paragraph informative writing task. These assessments established a baseline for their knowledge and skills. The teacher guided students in identifying information required for writing prompts, analyzing exemplar texts, and co-constructing success criteria. This process was repeated multiple times, with support including graphic organizers, sentence frames, and shared writing activities. Students used scaffolded goals as benchmarks to gauge their progress, which facilitated goal-setting conversations and supported personalized learning needs. The study's results clearly highlighted the effectiveness of co-constructed learning intentions and success criteria in enhancing student achievement and engagement. Data showed significant improvement in student performance, particularly for complex tasks. However, students with IEPs and MLLs needed more practice and individualized support. The findings suggest that detailed, personalized instructions, interactive learning experiences, and consistent feedback are crucial for maximizing educational outcomes and creating an inclusive learning environment.