Mastery of content is a foundational classroom objective. In each subject, teachers transmit new information and concepts. Students demonstrate mastery of content on classroom tests, state exams and other evaluations. Textbooks and teacher's manuals include specific objectives for each topic of study. Mastery of content means students are able to integrate new information and concepts into their preexisting knowledge base (see Reference 1).
Not all objectives are content-based. Many educational objectives focus on cognitive skills. Skills objectives emphasize the process by which students learn. One objective for a high school history class might be for students to learn how to conduct historical research in their communities. Other skills-based objectives concern skills such as critical thinking, judgment and decision-making (see Reference 1).
One objective for a high school history class might be to help students understand the uncertainties historians and archaeologists face when attempting to learn about ancient civilizations. This objective doesn't require students to learn particular facts or skills. Instead, it asks students to gain an appreciation for one facet of the study of history (see Reference 2). Other objectives may be motivational in nature. When teaching introductory lessons, teachers want to increase students' excitement and interest in the topic.
Some objectives are behavioral and social rather than academic. Teachers may want to help students learn proper social behavior (see Reference 2). Some lessons include components of conflict resolution and anger management. Teachers may also want students to develop empathy, compassion or other character traits. In schools with a religious or ideological foundation, behavioral and social objectives are especially pronounced.