Translating Competencies into “I Can” Statements
A GUIDE FOR INSTRUCTIONAL PLANNING AND LEARNER GROWTH
How do broad competencies become meaningful, measurable learning experiences? Making Standards Meaningful for Learners is a practical one-pager that helps school librarians and educators turn the AASL Standards into clear outcomes, lesson objectives, and student-friendly “I can” statements.
Grounded in competency-based education, this resource explains how the National School Library Standards prioritize mastery, flexibility, and personalized growth. It clarifies the progression from Competency → Outcome → Objective, showing how big-picture learning goals translate into daily instruction and assessment.
Inside, you’ll find:
- A clear explanation of competency-based education in action
- A step-by-step breakdown of competencies, outcomes, and lesson objectives
- Sample instructional scenarios that demonstrate real-world application
- Grade-band examples of “I can” statements to support student ownership
- Guidance on using the Think, Create, Share, and Grow Domains as an instructional lens
- Reflection strategies that position competencies as tools for ongoing growth—not one-time evaluation
Whether you’re collaborating with classroom teachers, designing inquiry units, or refining assessment practices, this guide supports intentional planning aligned to the AASL Standards.
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