Too often, when we catechists plan for our lessons, we concentrate on what it is that WE will be doing. “I’ll cover chapter 10, then play Jeopardy to review the main points of the lesson, then I’ll lead prayer, and so on…” It’s important to remember that, in our planning, the focus should be on what the participants will be doing. Today, most catechist manuals use the phrase learning outcomes to identify what the participants should be able to know or do as a result of a lesson. Some may use the word objectives, however, that tends to be more teacher-focused. Here is a nifty chart that helps to identify different levels of learning outcomes.
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If you want your participants to . . |
Use keywords such as the following in your learning outcomes. |
Example: After this lesson, the participants will be able to . . . |
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recognize or recall facts and information and knowledge (recall) |
list describe define repeat fill in label name identify
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list the seven sacraments. |
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demonstrate an understanding (comprehension) |
paraphrase explain review match discuss interpret
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explain the meaning of the symbol of water in baptism. |
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apply what is learned to new situations (application) |
apply construct draw simulate sketch predict write
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draw a picture of an experience of reconciliation in their lives. |
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pick out important points (analysis) |
classify distinguish differentiate compare contrast categorize separate break down
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categorize the seven sacraments into Sacraments of Initiation, Sacraments of Healing, and Sacraments at the Service of Communion. |
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combine concepts into something new (synthesis) |
combine relate put together integrate assemble collect
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assemble a prayer aid for the celebration of one of the seven sacraments. |
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judge and evaluate ideas based on standards (evaluation) |
judge argue assess appraise decide defend rate debate evaluate choose
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evaluate a sample homily for a confirmation Mass in relation to its use of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the symbols of the bishop, or the symbols of the rite of confirmation. |
Wow! Great tool for catechists! Many Catholics are fearful of stepping forward to become catechists due to “lack of teaching skills.” This is an easy “formula” to help them plan their time with the children. Thanks, Joe, for continually making this site so useful! I will be certain to share this at our catechist kick-off meeting this year!
Thanks, Janet! I’m sure that kick-off meeting is right around the corner too!