An operational definition is critical for success in writing IEP goals, especially behavioral goals. It is also vital to define a target behavior for both a Functional Behavior Analysis (FBA) and a Behavior Intervention Program (BIP) .An operational definition describes the behavior in terms of what you see.It is an explicit definition that two or more disinterested observers would be able to identify. Academic goals should also be operationally defined: you define the academic behavior the child should exhibit.Examples: Operational Definition, behavior: John leaves his assigned seat during instruction without pemission.t is an explicit definition that two or more disinterested observers would be able to identify. Academic goals should also be operationally defined: you define the academic behavior the child should exhibit. Examples: Operational Definition, behavior: John leaves his assigned seat during instruction without pemission.