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In this chapter, we discuss how goals motivate learning among students with special needs, specifically those with learning disabilities (LDs). First, we discuss goal-setting, which refers to a process and plan of action intended to achieve a specific aim or desired outcome. Effective goals are specific, broken into proximal subgoals, and appropriately difficult. Students with LDs benefit from explicit instruction of effective goal-setting strategies. Second, we discuss a specific class of goals, known as achievement goals, because they are important for understanding students’ academic success. A mastery approach goal refers to striving to learn and master material; it is associated with persistence, interest, and deep learning strategies. A performance approach goal refers to striving to demonstrate ability and to do better than others and is often associated with superficial strategies. Two types of performance approach …