Discuss the goals with the learner and explain that you will help her to write goals that are specific. Ask the student what her interests are; this will make it easier to set a specific goal. For instance, if her passion is horses, her goal could be to be able to read a magazine about horses. Tell her that the goal should be measurable, so she will be able to tell whether or not she has achieved it.
Help the learner set a goal that is attainable. As his learning progresses, this goal will shift. Initially, an attainable goal may be to write and read a shopping list. As he improves, he may aim to write an email, then a letter. According to Critical Reading, all writers must be readers, although all readers do not have to write, so the student's early goals should focus on the skill of reading.
Set goals that are realistic. The adult who has literacy problems may also lack confidence and have low self-esteem. Realistic goals will help her overcome these feelings. Help her to set reading and writing goals that are timely. Set a date to review her goals and measure her progress. This is also the ideal time to set some further goals.