Having students set goals in the ELA classroom (or any other classroom, for that matter) should not be an annual ritual.  In fact, research shows that having students set bi-weekly goals, track their progress, meet their objectives, and then set NEW goals will increase student achievement–especially when teachers conference with students about their goals! 

This simple goal sheet can be used by students and then archived in their reading/writing folders every 2 weeks so students can see their annual improvement process in your classroom come alive!  It can be used to celebrate academic and behavioral milestones and victories, as well!  The whole idea of goal setting is to let students have ownership over their work and to Let Them Speak! in your classroom.