High Hopes, High Rewards: The Impact of Expectations on Achievement

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Why does it seem like some classrooms are bursting with untapped potential while others struggle to meet minimal standards? Is there a secret sauce that can turn around the academic performance of students? 

Turns out, the answer lies in the very expectations we set for our students. 

According to a meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Educational Research, expected achievement is a significant predictor of future (actual) academic success. 

The kicker? Higher expectations can lead to higher achievements. It’s as simple as that.

And it’s not just about numbers and stats, but about crafting an environment where your students feel valued – and capable. Let’s take a closer look. 

Why Do High Expectations Matter?

Rosenthal and Jacobson, two researchers in education, shook up things in the education world when they introduced us to the Pygmalion effect. 

In their famous study, the researchers gave teachers false information about students’ IQ and observed the results. The students who were expected to do well actually performed better, proving that expectations influence achievements.

Imagine telling a student you believe they can ace a tricky math problem. You never know what might happen, but chances are, they’ll rise to the occasion.

On the flip side, low expectations can be just as powerful – but in a negative way. If teachers believe a student can’t succeed, the student will likely fulfill that prophecy. This is known as the Golem Effect.

The bottom line is this: you need to elevate your expectations for your students. One study found that high school students with supportive teachers are over three times more likely to earn a college degree compared to their peers with less encouraging teachers.

Sadly, not all expectations are created equal. Teachers often have lower expectations for students of color and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The same study cited above found that high-poverty students are perceived as 53% less likely to earn a college diploma than their affluent peers. 

Because of this, addressing these biases is crucial for creating an equitable education system – we’ll tell you how to do that below. 

How to Develop and Share Your Expectations With Your Students

Here are some tips to help you establish and convey your high expectations to your students.

1.  Openly and Frequently Articulate Your Expectations and Goals

Transparency is key. Make sure your expectations are clear and regularly communicated to your students. This could be through discussions, written guidelines, or visual aids. For instance, a classroom poster with the goals for the semester can serve as a constant reminder.

A simple “I believe in your ability to do this” can work wonders.

Or you could consider beginning each week with a “Monday Morning Meeting” where you outline the goals and expectations for the week. 

2. Select Challenging – but Doable – Instructional Materials

Challenge your students with materials that are just beyond their current capabilities but still within reach. This concept, often referred to as the “Zone of Proximal Development,” gets students to feel motivated to constantly learn and grow without feeling overwhelmed.

If you’re teaching a literature class, select texts that introduce new vocabulary and complex themes but are still age-appropriate. Pair challenging readings with supportive activities like guided discussions and vocabulary previews to ensure comprehension.

3. Use Whole Group Instruction Whenever Possible

Whole-group instruction fosters a sense of community and shared goals. This way, all students receive the same foundational knowledge and helps diminish any preconceived notions about their abilities.

Instead of grouping students by perceived ability levels, engage the entire class in a collaborative project. This could be a science experiment where each student has a role and reinforces the message that everyone is capable of contributing.

4. Use Rubrics and Grading Scales

Rubrics are invaluable tools that make your expectations transparent and provide students with a clear guide to success. They also standardized grading so you can be as fair and consistent as possible.

When assigning a research paper, for example, provide a detailed rubric that outlines the criteria for grading, such as clarity of argument, depth of research, grammar, and formatting. Then, students know what’s expected and how they can go about meeting your expectations.

5. Survey Your Students

Involving students in setting expectations can make them more relevant and motivating. Conduct surveys to understand their goals and aspirations, and use this information to tailor your approach.

At the start of a new term, distribute a questionnaire asking students about their interests, strengths, and areas they wish to improve. Use their responses to design lessons that resonate with their goals.

6. Understand the Difference Between Aspirations and Expectations

Aspirations are long-term dreams, while expectations are the actionable steps to achieve those dreams. Help students bridge this gap by setting realistic, achievable goals.

If a student aspires to be a published author, set short-term goals like writing weekly journal entries or submitting a short story to a school publication. These concrete steps make the aspiration more attainable.

7. Start Early – and Often

Research shows that the impact of expectations is most significant at the beginning of the school year or when starting new tasks and topics. Set the tone early to create a strong foundation.

On the first day of school, clearly articulate your high expectations for the year. Reinforce this message at the start of each new unit or project to maintain a consistent level of expectation.

8. Communicate With Parents

Parents are key allies in reinforcing high expectations. Regularly update them on their child’s progress and your classroom goals to create a supportive environment both at home and in school.

You may want to consider sending monthly newsletters or emails that highlight classroom achievements, upcoming projects, and ways parents can support learning at home. 

9. Build Self Esteem

Encourage students to believe in themselves by celebrating small victories and providing constructive feedback. High self-esteem often translates to high achievement. 

Create a “Wall of Fame” in your classroom where students can display their best work. Recognize not just academic success but also effort and improvement.

10. Differentiate Instruction

Every student is unique, and differentiating your teaching methods shows that you expect all students to succeed. Tailoring instruction to meet diverse learning needs demonstrates your commitment to every student’s growth.

Use a variety of teaching strategies, like visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology, to cater to the different learning styles in your classroom. For instance, you can pair reading assignments with audio versions for auditory learners.

11. Provide Feedback

Make your feedback specific, actionable, and timely to help students understand what they did well and how they can improve.

Instead of simply marking an essay with “Good job” or “Needs improvement,” provide detailed feedback on specific areas like thesis clarity, argument structure, and grammar. Suggest concrete steps for improvement.

12. Use Data to Inform Your Practice

Data-driven instruction helps identify areas where students excel and where they need more support. Use this information to adjust your expectations and strategies accordingly.

Regularly review assessment data to pinpoint trends and areas for improvement. If data shows that a majority of students struggle with a particular concept, revisit and reinforce that topic in your lessons.

13. Build Strong Relationships

Strong relationships are the backbone of high expectations. When students know you care about them, they’ll be more motivated to meet your expectations.

Take time to get to know your students individually – about their interests, backgrounds, and challenges. Show genuine interest in their lives inside and outside the classroom.

Improving Your Own Mindset

Stay ahead of the curve by participating in professional development opportunities. The more you learn, the better you can support your students.

Ask yourself whether you’ve been equitable with your expectations. Regular reflection helps you stay aware of any biases and adjust your approach as needed.

At the end of the day, remember that high expectations can lead to even higher rewards. By setting and communicating clear, achievable goals, you can inspire your students to reach their full potential. 

Remember, it’s not just about academic success – it’s about fostering a lifelong love of learning.