Here is an example of how an Annual IEP Goal, and the associated short term objectives, should be written for a 3rd grade student with Learning Disabilities in the area of Language Arts and Reading.
Annual IEP Goal Area: Language Arts and Reading (Curriculum and Learning):
XXX will read a 3rd grade passage, be able to comprehend its contents, and decode 10 of the words contained therein with 70% accuracy within the next 9 weeks.
Objective 1: XXX will read one passage on a 2nd grade level and will be given 2 comprehension questions and 1 word to decode on a weekly basis.
Objective 2: XXX will be given 5 additional words to decode both on the 2nd grade and 3rd grade level within the 4th nine weeks of the school year based on his performance as ordained by objective 1 for this goal.
Objective 3: XXX will read 2 passages and be introduced to text on the 4th grade level within the 4th nine weeks of the 08-09 school year pending his performance on objective 2.
From the first objective to the last, it shows an increase in criteria and list how success or failure will be achieved and which methods will be used to do so. Creating objectives this way will show a clear path for the prescribed goal. Each subsequent objective should lay out a condition, the desired performance level, criteria they must meet for success, and information on assessment administration.
This is just an example of how you can make sure the Annual IEP Goals and the short term objectives are linked and build on each other. Using the format presented above, you can develop a solid IEP that brings forth the best results for the student.