Alyssa: I am a special ed teacher in Texas. All of our IEP goals are measured by report card grades. I.e. “By the next IEP, Sam will use context clues to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words as demonstrated by earning at least 70% in his English class.” Is this appropriate?
No. Passing grades do not equal mastery of the TEKS. TEA & ESC 20 developed a document on grading that discusses this. http://programs.esc20.net/default.aspx?name=pgc.home Also the documents on Standards-based IEPs, & Specially Designed Instruction may be of interest to you.