What is a statement of what the student is expected to know or do by the end of the lesson?

The correct choice highlights a critical element of lesson planning. A lesson goal specifically defines what students are expected to understand or achieve by the conclusion of the lesson. It provides clarity and direction for both the instructor and the learners, setting a focused expectation that can guide the lesson's content and assessments.

While other terms might seem relevant, they serve distinct purposes. A learning outcome often refers to broader objectives across a curriculum rather than a single lesson, whereas an achievement standard specifies the level of performance or criteria students must meet, often applied to a wider context. A performance indicator, on the other hand, is a measurable criterion that helps assess whether a specific standard has been met but does not encapsulate the overarching aim of the lesson itself. Therefore, specifying a lesson goal effectively communicates the intended educational outcomes for students, enhancing the instructional process.