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66 Fantastic Teacher Comments for Progress Reports

• Suzanne Kelley
• October 12, 2021
• No Comments

It’s that time again for most of us…completing Progress Reports! I don’t know about you, but it is a struggle sometimes to capture the correct teacher comments to add to each child’s report. We want to stay positive, but we need to concisely and accurately paint a portrait that truly reflects each child. And, sometimes, we need to report some pretty tough stuff about someone’s baby.

Progress Report comments have consistently been huge threads social media groups. Teachers asking other teachers, what should my comment be for this particular behavior? We noticed, and we have now compiled 66 Fantastic Teacher Comments for Progress Reports from these great advice threads. I find myself using #8 a lot.

But, before I hop into all of the comments you can easily cut and paste into your progress reports and report cards, I have two questions for you…

• Do you give out practice packets for your students?
• Do you have parents that ask for practice activities during conferences?

I have pre-made, ready-to-print packets that you can grab on ETTC Premium right now! You can be copying these packets while completing your progress reports and get both done at the same time!

Grab the Packets on Premium

Teacher comments for work habits.

• Works well with classmates; is a strong leader; motivates others to complete work.

2. They remain focused during independent work without frequent reminders.

3. Independent effort is evident in their work. Not afraid to try and willing to work on mistakes

4. Needs reminders to remain focused during independent work; requires teacher support to stay focused during independent work.

5. They need to listen to the directions more closely before engaging in school work.

6. They rely heavily on teacher support for most work completion.

7. Lacks some confidence to initiate and complete work, asking for teacher support rather than making attempts.

8. Needs assistance to use time wisely during work activities.

Teacher Comments for Classroom Behavior

9. Shows good manners and kindness to others in the classroom

10. Accepts redirection appropriately.

11. Follows most classroom rules.

12. They remain focused and on-task , minimally distracted.

13. Regularly participates in and contributes to class discussions.

14. Cooperates with the teacher and other staff.

15. They demonstrate responsible use of personal and classroom materials.

16. Needs to follow classroom rules and directions throughout the school day.

17. Consistently needs reminders to be quiet and not distract others.

18. Requires frequent directions to be in place at desks, tables, or centers.

19. They need to work on using respectful, kind language with peers and teachers.

20. Needs to work on maintaining personal space while keeping body parts and materials off of others.

21. Struggles with impulsive behaviors.

22. Often becomes silly and has difficulty returning to work.

Character Traits

23. Requires additional support to interact in positive ways with classmates.

24. Is great at reminding others of behavioral expectations.

25. The student will benefit from focusing on their decision-making.

26. The student is learning to/requires adult support to differentiate between reporting and tattling.

27. It has truly been a pleasure getting to know your child.

28. Your child arrives at school every day with a smile, ready to learn.

29. Is eager to help others and help around the classroom.

30. Your child is an essential part of our classroom and school community .

31. Very expressive with opinions and emotions.

32. Your child is a strong listener to others’ ideas and opinions.

33. Frequent absences continually impact their ability to access all of the learning that takes place daily in our classroom.

34. Your student works well below their potential due to a lack of motivation and attention to work.

Some Academic Teacher Comments to Share

35. They have strengthened their ______skills since the beginning of the quarter.

36. Has made slight progress in ________this quarter/trimester but continues to need work.

37. Continues to make progress in all academic areas due to hard work and determination.

38. Tends to be very talkative during quiet work periods, which disrupts classmates’ work as well.

39. Struggles to remain organized with materials even though systems are in place for them.

40. Works fast, often making careless mistakes. They would benefit greatly from slowing down and checking their work.

41. Is very responsible with their belongings and turns assignments in on time.

Social Skills and Socialization Teacher Comments

42. Consistently puts forth their best effort, showing pride in their work.

43. Requires additional practice and repetition to master necessary skills in _______.

44. Has a positive attitude towards work but continues to struggle with retaining taught information.

45. Needs to improve abilities to work with others in a group setting, listening to perspectives and ideas of others.

46. Continues to have difficulty with their willingness to share and take turns in a group setting.

47. Is genuinely concerned about the feelings of their peers.

48. Perseveres on challenging tasks with a positive attitude.

49. Expresses himself clearly with teachers and classmates.

50. Difficulty problem-solving with classmates.

Academic Skills Teacher Comments

51. Displays self-discipline.

52. Is an enthusiastic reader.

53. Is good at attacking unknown words.

54. They would benefit from daily reading and sight word practice .

55. Is reading at/above/below grade level for this time of year.

56. Needs additional support at home to practice addition and subtraction facts.

57. Needs to put more effort into ________.

58. Does well on assignments but struggles with testing.

59. Requires additional attention for their academics beyond what we would expect for a ____ (grade).

60. Struggles with remembering previously taught skills that are necessary for advancement in the subject area.

61. Consistently completes grade-level books with stellar comprehension skills.

62. Is constantly engaged in their lessons until completed.

63. They struggle with transitions between subject areas within the classroom, delaying their work start time.

64. Reads at grade level, but struggles with recalling information about what they have read.

Two Biggies–Use with Caution

65. I have concerns about your child’s behaviors in the classroom and feel we should meet to discuss some strategies for improvement.

66. I have concerns regarding your child’s progress in academic areas. Let’s talk soon to share more details, and we can make a firm plan for improvement.

Did you find one or two comments that will fit perfectly into your Progress Reports this year? We hope so! Or, are you holding on to this list like me with a tight grip to not misplace it by Progress Reports time? Either way, we appreciate our Facebook members who shared many of these comments and would love to add your ideas to the list. Comment below with some of your teacher comments. Who knows, they might make the updated list for next year!

WRITTEN BY: SUZANNE KELLEY

At  Education to the Core , we exist to help our teachers build a stronger classroom as they connect with our community to find trusted, state-of-the-art resources designed by teachers for teachers. We aspire to be the world’s leading & most trusted community for educational resources for teachers. We improve the lives of every teacher and learner with the most comprehensive, reliable, and inclusive educational resources.

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100 Report Card Comments You Can Use Now

When teachers talk about the joys of teaching, I’m pretty sure they aren’t talking about report card writing. It may just rank right up there with indoor recess, yard duty, and staff meetings. But report cards don’t have to be such a pain.

Here are a few report card general principles, followed by my handy dandy list of editable go-to phrases…

Three Report Card Comment Principles

1. Be Truthful but Kind

A report card’s main purpose is to inform parents about their child’s progress. While there should be no major surprises ( BIG/major issues should have already been discussed with the child’s parents/guardians ), regardless of how well the child is doing or how poorly, the report card should be an honest reflection of that child’s performance.

Having said that, of course, we want to word things in a way that is as positive as we can be and in a way that is encouraging, offering suggestions for improvement, rather than discouragement.

2. Follow the Magical Report Card Comment Format

If the child is doing well overall… you are golden!!! An easy report card is one that I LOVE to do. Unfortunately, not all students are Einsteins or angels, and we have to mention some areas that need improvement. That’s when we use the magical format, which is…

A. Start with a compliment… you might have to dig deep here and get creative, while still being genuine. Remember, every student has attributes we can praise, even the most challenging ones. You might mention the child’s attitude, personality, social skills, sense of humor, willingness or desire to help, special skill in art/music, etc.

B. Next, add a line or two about what is challenging the child , and how he/she struggles in a certain area. Don’t include a laundry list of 20 things to work on. Prioritize the list and highlight the MOST important issues. Also, do make sure to offer a solution or suggestion that is practical and helpful .

C. End on a positive note. Again, a compliment is a nice touch any time of the year, and for the end of the year report card, a best wishes for ____ grade or have a wonderful summer, or I’m so glad to have been ____’s teacher this year, and so on works well.

3. Proofread and Check, then Proofread Again

Report card time is crunch time, and when we’re trying to speed through things and get them done, those nasty little typos pop up where we least expect them.

Do make sure to double-check everything before you hit enter/print to send them home. All communication with parents is seen as a reflection of ourselves as teachers and should be as perfect as we can make it.

Now that the principles are out of the way, here is my list of 100+ report card comments (updated to include 150 comments!).

I’ve included a wide variety of comments for the wide variety of ability levels and behavioral challenges of the students that we teach in our classrooms..

Want your own set of 150 comments in three formats – Printable PDF, editable PowerPoint, and Editable Digital? Click here to take a peek!

OPENING / CLOSING – POSITIVE:

• _____has worked very hard this semester/year, and I am proud of all of his/her accomplishments.
• ______ is making/has made good/excellent/wonderful/outstanding progress in _____ grade.
• _____ has done a(n)/fantastic/exemplary/wonderful/excellent job this year/semester in _____ grade and has worked so very hard.
• I appreciate _____’s quality work/motivation to do well/attitude, and I am enjoying/have enjoyed being his/her teacher.
•  ______ arrives at school each day with a positive/cheerful/happy attitude, ready to learn.
• _____ is an excellent _____ grader, and he/she has made our classroom a better place.
• _____ is doing/has done an(a) excellent/ outstanding/wonderful/ great/ fantastic job overall this semester/year.
• _______has made good/excellent/extraordinary/fantastic/outstanding progress in all academic areas.
• _____ is bright, motivated, and hard-working and can be proud of his/her accomplishments this semester/year.
• _____ is intrinsically motivated and strives to please/produce top-quality/excellent work. I am enjoying/have enjoyed being his/her teacher.
• _____ seems to enjoy school, and his/her positive attitude brightens up our classroom.
• _____is a bright and inquisitive student who enjoys learning. He/she is a pleasure to have in class.
• _____ has learned a great deal this semester/year and has shown particular progress/improvement in _____.
• _______ is a(an) hard-working/attentive/determined student and is working/doing well in all subject areas.
• _____ is a very polite/hard-working/bright student and a pleasure to be around. I am enjoying/have enjoyed being his/her teacher.
• _____is a(n) awesome/wonderful/amazing/fabulous ____ grader, and I have enjoyed getting to know him/her this year.
• I am so proud of _____ and wish him/her well for _____ grade and beyond.
• I have truly enjoyed being _____’s teacher and will miss him/her next year.
• I have enjoyed teaching ______ this year. He/she loves to learn and has shown growth throughout the year. Wishing him/her continued success.
• _____ has been a wonderful_____ grader, and I’m so glad to have him in class. His/her great attitude/strong work ethic/hard work/determination are to be admired. He/she has a bright future ahead.
• _____ is a hard-working/bright/likable/motivated student. I have thoroughly enjoyed having him/her in class this year. Have a wonderful summer!

ACADEMIC – POSITIVE :

• _______has made good/excellent/wonderful/fantastic/outstanding progress in all academic areas.
• _______ is a(an) hard-working/attentive/determined student and is working well in all subject areas.
• _____ shows strong knowledge/strengths in the area of _____.
• _____ has exceeded expectations in ______.
• _____ demonstrates superior work in ______. I appreciate his/her dedication and effort.
• _____ consistently puts forth his/her best effort in _____, which is wonderful/lovely/great to see.
• _____ shows special/unique/particular strengths in the area of social studies/science/reading/writing/math… and has done very well this trimester/year.
• _____ seems to enjoy reading/writing/math/science/social .. and has done an excellent/amazing job this year.
• _____ has a good understanding/sense of theme/the main idea/ characters/ plot/ inferences, which strengthens his/her reading ability.
• _____ reads smoothly and with good expression.
• _____ is able to use data from graphs and charts/use a compass successfully/convert measurements correctly.
• _____ uses reading strategies such as _____ effectively, which increases his/her reading comprehension.
• _____ has a large/extensive/rich vocabulary, which adds to his/her ability to write effectively.
• _____ enjoys poetry/reading/music/science/art… and excels in it.
•  _____ is a very talented artist/writer, and I truly enjoy the detail/attention/ passion he/she puts into his/her artwork/writing.
• _____ excels in creative/narrative/opinion/expository/report writing…
• _____ produces stories/essays/paragraphs/research reports that are well-organized/ developed.
• _____ has strong reading comprehension/math computation skills.
• _____ is a creative student, and I have enjoyed seeing the wonderful writing/art projects/drawings he/she has created/written.
• _____ uses higher-level thinking skills to complete challenging assignments.
• _____ demonstrates a good understanding of math/reading/social studies/science… concepts.
• _____ shows strong problem-solving skills in math/decoding skills in reading/grammar skills in writing/map skills in social studies…
• _____ goes beyond grade-level expectations in _____. He/she often/ consistently sets and meets/exceeds academic goals.
• _____ demonstrates a deep understanding of _____ concepts.
• _____ has an impressive understanding and knowledge of _____.

ACADEMIC PROGRESS SHOWN – POSITIVE:

• ______has strengthened his/her skills in _____.
• ______has made good/excellent/wonderful/fantastic/outstanding progress in all academic areas.
• ______ has made good/great/tremendous/significant improvement in _____.
• _____ has worked hard to raise his/her grade in _____, and I appreciate his/her effort.
• _____ has learned a great deal this semester/year and has shown particular improvement in _____.
• _____ has shown steady progress/strong gains/excellent progress in the area of _____. I’m pleased with his/her effort.
• _____ is making good progress in ______ this semester. Please encourage him/her to continue to ______.
• _____ has shown improvement in _____, which is great to see. Please encourage him/her to continue to _____ each day/in the coming weeks to keep the momentum going.
• _____ is making good progress in ______ but would benefit from ______ to continue showing growth.
• I have been pleased to see that _____ is continuing to grow/consistently progressing/improving steadily in independence in/with ______.
• _____’s quality of work has shown good/great/exceptional growth this semester.

ACADEMIC – IMPROVEMENT NEEDED:

• _____is intelligent but works below his/her capacity/potential due to a lack of motivation/attention to quality work.
• Unfortunately, _____’s grades have suffered from missing assignments.
• _____is gaining confidence in _____ but would benefit from _____.
• Please encourage _____ to _____each day to help him/her improve in _____.
• _____ seems to find _____ challenging and would benefit from reading nightly/practicing math facts/working online…
• _____ is capable of achieving a higher grade in _____ but needs to______ in order to make progress.
• _____ seems to have difficulty at times with reading comprehension/ math computation/writing paragraphs… and would benefit from _____.
• _____ needs to slow down in order to produce quality/carefully done work.
• _____ needs to memorize his/her basic math facts in order to complete complex math problems more easily/efficiently/quickly.
• _____ would benefit from _____ to fully memorize basic math facts.
• Memorizing basic addition/multiplication math facts would be very helpful to _____.
• Science/social studies tests have been very difficult for _____, and he/she would benefit from increasing the time spent studying the material.
• This trimester, I would like to see _____ to work on _____.
• This trimester, it would be helpful for _____ to focus on _____ in order to _____.
• _____ needs lots of repetition and practice in order to retain _____.
• I would like to see _____ pay closer attention to _____ in order to _____.
• When ______ is motivated, he/she does well on class assignments.
• _____ is excelling in many skills but needs to concentrate on ______.
• I would like to see ____ focus on _____ each day/in the coming months.
• _____ shows interest/has enthusiasm/seems motivated for everything we do in class. However, he/she is having some difficulty with ______. It would be helpful if he/she would ______ each night.
• Even with extra help, _____ experiences difficulty with _____. It would benefit ______ to ______.
• _____ rarely asks for help when he/she is confused/doesn’t understand something. We will continue to encourage _____ to ask for assistance whenever it is needed.
• _____ exhibits minimal confidence in his/her ______ skills. It would be helpful to _____.
• _____ is struggling to meet/maintain grade-level expectations in _____. Let’s work together to help _____ be successful in this area.

WORK HABITS AND QUALITY OF WORK – POSITIVE:

• _____ completes his/her work carefully and completely/thoroughly.
• I appreciate _____’s neat work, which is carefully done.
•  _____ is very organized and finds needed materials easily.
• ______ pays attention to detail in his/her assignments, and I appreciate the high quality of his/her work.
• _____ turns in work that is beautifully/carefully/thoroughly done.
• _____ has a strong work ethic and never completes any assignment halfway.
• _____ is very responsible and turns in assignments/homework on time.
• ____ takes tremendous pride in his/her work and completes assignments carefully.
• _____ is focused on creating quality work and completes assignments carefully/thoroughly.
• _____’s attention to detail can be seen in the quality of his/her work. I appreciate the care he/she takes in each assignment.
• _____ takes pride in his/her work and consistently turns in neat and carefully completed work.
• _____’s motivation/attitude is reflected in the work he/she turns in/creates. I am pleased to see his/her well-thought-out/thoroughly completed assignments.
• I appreciate ______’s dedication to his/her learning/studies in class.

WORK HABITS AND QUALITY OF WORK – IMPROVEMENT NEEDED:

• _____ needs to complete his/her work carefully and completely/ thoroughly.
• _____ would benefit by taking responsibility to turn in assignments and/or homework on time.
• I am concerned about _____’s organizational skills and his/her responsibility related to turning in assignments on time.
• ______ struggles with organizational skills in the classroom and needs to keep his/her desk/workspace neater to make his/her day run more smoothly.
• _____ struggles to find needed papers/materials and would benefit from using a folder/a binder/keeping a neater desk…
• _____ tends to work too quickly, often resulting in careless mistakes.
• I would like to see _____ focus on _____ in the coming months.
• This trimester, I would like _____ to work on _____.
• I would like to see _____ pay closer attention to ____ in order to _____.

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR – POSITIVE:

• _____ follows classroom rules consistently and is a good role model.
• _____ has a positive attitude and is a joy to teach.
•  _____ is on task regardless of the activity.
•  _____ seems to enjoy school, and his/her positive attitude brightens up our classroom.
•  _____ listens attentively to directions, and I appreciate his/her ability to understand the assignment and to start work right away.
•  _____ has an excellent attitude and is always willing to lend a hand.
•  _____ is a(an) wonderful/excellent helper and a classroom leader.
•  _____ is polite to classmates and to all adults on staff at school.
• _____ arrives at school each day with a positive/happy attitude, ready to learn.
• _____ works independently and is able to complete enrichment activities when he/she is finished with required assignments.
• _____ is able to focus and stays on task during independent working times.
•  _____ uses class time constructively/efficiently/wisely.
•  _____ works respectfully during independent work times.
• ____ is a hard-working student who sets goals and reaches them.
• _____ is a dependable/responsible/conscientious student.
• _____ has made great strides this year in terms of _____ in the classroom/on the playground.
• _____ has a strong work ethic and takes responsibilities seriously.
• _____is a very respectful/kind/caring/considerate classmate/student, and I appreciate having him/her in class.
• _____ shows determination/perseverance when faced with a challenging task.
• _____ enjoys participating in class lessons, and his/her background knowledge adds a great deal to our discussions.
• _____ is able to share appropriate and relevant information, which adds to classroom discussions.
• _____ is an active participant in small groups as well as whole-class discussions/activities/projects.
• _____ listens well and takes an active role in class lessons/class discussions/class activities/group work.
• _____’s persistence/determination/hard work in _____ is exemplary.

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR – IMPROVEMENT NEEDED:

• _____ is intelligent but works below his/her capacity/potential due to off-task behaviors/a lack of motivation/attention to quality work.
• _______ has done well in many areas, but I am concerned that his/her lack of listening/focus/motivation and following directions/working independently/working quietly has contributed to his lower grade in _____.
• _____ struggles with following classroom rules and needs to focus on working quietly/staying in his/her seat…
•  _____ is very talkative during quiet working periods and distracts others around him/her.
•  Working quietly is very difficult for _____, and I would like him/her to focus on his/her work so that he/she, as well as others around him/her, are able to attend to the task at hand/learn more effectively/concentrate…
•  _____ needs to listen and follow directions carefully during class time.
•  I would like to see _____ put more effort into showing respect/kindness/ thoughtfulness to his classmates to strengthen social skills.
•  _____ needs to work on taking turns speaking/working more cooperatively with classmates.
• _____ needs to focus on raising his/her hand to speak/listening to others/waiting for others to finish before speaking/listening skills.
• ______’s listening skills need improvement.
•  This trimester, I would like _____ to focus on _____ in order to _____.
• Academically, _____ is doing well overall. I would like him/her to focus on showing more kindness/respect/cooperation to his/her classmates.
•  _____ needs frequent reminders to stay on task throughout the school day.
• _____ needs to follow school rules at lunchtime and on the playground.
•  _____ gets along well with classmates, but needs to work on staying on task and not socializing.
• _____ is an intelligent student with great potential. However, he/she needs to work on staying focused in class and following directions.
• _____ is very social and is well-liked. His/her conversations during independent work times, though, have made it difficult for _____, as well as those around him/her, to finish work successfully/to create quality work/to concentrate on the task at hand/to learn/ to complete assignments.
• _____ has a social personality, but his/her chatting in class can be disruptive. He/she needs to work on staying focused during class so he/she and others around him/her can complete class assignments/stay on task.
• _____ is often eager to participate in class discussions but needs to remember to raise his/her hand/wait to be called on…
• _____ has made progress with ______ but is still struggling. Let’s continue to encourage ______ to ______.

MOTIVATION – POSITIVE:

• _____ succeeds at whatever task he/she puts his/her mind to.
• _____ sets high standards for himself/herself and reaches them.
• _____ is intrinsically motivated and strives to please/produce top-quality/excellent work.
• _____ enjoys being challenged and would benefit from _____.
• I appreciate _____’s quality work/motivation to do well/positive attitude, and I am enjoying/have enjoyed being his/her teacher.
• _____ is truly/genuinely eager to learn and asks questions appropriately when needed.
• _____ shows interest and enthusiasm for classroom activities and seems to enjoy learning.
• _____ shows determination/perseverance when faced with any task/a challenging task.
•  _____ is a hard-working student who sets goals and reaches them.
• _____ is self-motivated and consistently produces quality work.

SOCIAL SKILLS/CHARACTER – POSITIVE:

• _____ is respectful to his/her classmates and is very well-liked.
•  _____ is helpful and kind and is a pleasure to be around.
• _____ works well with other students.
•  _____ not only works well with his/her classmates but is a natural leader.
• _____ is very compassionate and always shows kindness to others.
• _____ is polite to classmates and to all adults on staff at school.
• _____ is respectful and considerate of others.
•  _____ demonstrates positive character traits in the classroom.
• _____ is positive/confident and is a great role model for his/her classmates.
• _____ is an exceptionally thoughtful student who is consistently considerate/respectful/kind to others.
• _____is a very respectful/kind/caring/considerate classmate, and I appreciate having him/her in class.
• _____ is a likable student with strong social skills. He/she works well with others.
• _____has a positive attitude/is a very polite student and is a joy to teach.
• _____ is a hard-working student who sets goals and reaches them.
• _____ is a problem solver and shows a great deal of persistence.
• _____ displays good citizenship in our classroom.
• _____ has an excellent attitude and is always willing to lend a hand.
• _____ is a(an) wonderful/excellent helper and a classroom leader.
• I am enjoying/have enjoyed _____’s sense of humor in our classroom.
• _____ has a wonderful personality, and his/her sense of humor makes me smile.
• _____ is a flexible learner and adapts easily to new challenges.
• _____ works respectfully during independent work times.
• _____ makes a sincere effort and works hard in class.
• _____ is a kind and caring student who is a good friend to others.
• _____ does his/her best in school each day. I appreciate his/her positive attitude/motivation/determination.
• _____ is an enthusiastic member of the class and comes to school each day ready to learn. I appreciate his/her positive outlook/hard-working attitude/approach to learning.

SOCIAL SKILLS/CHARACTER – NEEDS IMPROVEMENT:

•  _______ is an intelligent student with great potential. He/she needs to work on staying focused in class and following directions.
•  ______ needs frequent reminders to stay on task/focus throughout the school day.
•  _____ is excelling in many skills but needs to concentrate on ______.
• I would like to see ____ focus on/work to improve _____ in the coming months.
• ___ needs to focus on/practice raising his/her hand to speak/listening to others/waiting for others to finish before speaking/listening skills.
• I would like to see _____ put more effort into showing respect/kindness/ thoughtfulness to his classmates to strengthen/improve social skills.
• _____ needs to work on taking turns speaking/working cooperatively with classmates.
• _____ has a wonderful personality but needs to work more respectfully during independent/quiet work times…
• _____ needs to work on showing more respect/kindness/ compassion/ cooperation to his/her classmates.
• _____ needs to practice showing cooperation when working with other students/in small groups/during centers/during specials…

If you’d like your own set of report card comments in three formats (printable PDF, editable PowerPoint, and editable Digital in Google Slides) from The Teacher Next Door, please click here: 👉 100+ Report Card Comments You Can Use Now

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Teaching Students About Sharon White: An Inspirational Educator

Teaching students about the coaching legends of the steelers: a lesson in dedication, leadership, and success, teaching students about the tim donaghy scandal – learning from history, teaching students about kevin costner’s age: a unique approach to understanding hollywood’s history, teaching students about sonny landham: a journey through the life of a hollywood icon, teaching students about the summer olympics, teaching students about princess margaret’s death: an educational approach, teaching students about michael cole: an insightful approach to understanding a renowned journalist, college minor: everything you need to know, 14 fascinating teacher interview questions for principals, 100 report card and progress report comments that teachers can use today.

Having difficulty with writing positive and constructive feedback on student report cards and progress reports? Use our ideas.

• The learner takes an active role in discussions.
• Learner consistently cooperates with the teacher and other students.
• Learner listens well and shares ideas frequently.
• The learner works democratically with peers.
• Learner shows self-confidence in…
• The learner works well in groups, planning and carrying out activities.
• Learner follows directions well.
• The learner is an enthusiastic learner who enjoys school.
• Learner tackles new challenges with a positive attitude.
• The learner has a positive attitude about school.
• Learner consistently makes good choices during the school day.
• Learner shows respect for peers and teachers.
• Learner transitions easily between classroom activities and is not a distraction to others.
• The learner is sensitive to the thoughts and opinions of others.
• The learner is a leader and positive role model for students .
• The learner is enthusiastic about participating.
• The learner takes an active part in discussions about (topic).
• Learner speaks with confidence.
• Learner volunteers often.
• The learner has a great sense of humor and enjoys our class assignments.

Needs Improvement

• The learner has difficulty staying focused and on task. · Needs to actively participate in classroom discussion.
• The learner needs to work on not distracting others during class.
• The learner is learning to be careful, cooperative, and fair.
• The learner needs to work on…
• One area for improvement is…
• The learner is eager to participate in class but needs to raise their hand.
• The learner is becoming more independent when completing class assignments.
• The learner needs frequent reminders to stay focused throughout the day.
• Learner, when motivated, does well on class assignments.
• The learner needs to work on following written and oral directions.
• Needs to actively participate in classroom discussions.
• The learner has frequent absences that are affecting (name’s) schoolwork.
• The learner needs to work on treating others with respect.
• The learner needs to work on completing homework assignments on time.
• Learner frequently comes to class unprepared .
• Learner often seems tired at school.
• The learner gets upset quickly when (topic).
• Although _____________’s growth in social skills and maturity is continuing, it is not consistent.
• _______ continues to make progress this year concerning their attitude in the classroom and on the playground.

Time Management/Work Habits

• The learner uses class time wisely.
• The learner is a self-motivated student.
• Learner completes work on time.
• The learner is very organized.
• Learner demonstrates problem-solving skills and is persistent.
• The learner has done a great job facing and overcoming significant challenges this year.
• The learner is very responsible and turns in work on time.
• The learner is flexible and adapts to changes quickly .
• The learner has made improvements in the area of…
• The learner has strengthened their skills in…
• The learner does not complete assignments on time. Seems unable to finish.
• The learner is encouraged to use time wisely to finish tasks in the time required.
• Learner struggles to stay organized and find appropriate materials (paper/pencil).
• The learner needs to slow down to improve the quality of their work.
• The learner is not working to their full potential.
• The learner is easily distracted.
• The learner needs to listen and follow directions more carefully .
• The learner needs more opportunities to…
• Learner grades are suffering because of missed assignments.
• The learner would benefit from…

Growth Mindset

• The learner has demonstrated excellent progress this year.
• The learner is learning how to be a better listener and takes direction well.
• The learner has worked very hard this year and has made substantial gains in the area of ______.
• The learner has shown significant improvement with ______.
• The learner is progressing nicely and shows consistent improvement in many areas of schoolwork, including ______.
• The learner is learning to be cooperative when working in groups.
• The learner is developing more positive ways to interact with others.
• The learner is listening to directions more carefully.
• The learner has continued to make steady progress with…
• The learner has shown noticeable improvement in…

General Subject Area Comments

• The learner has good reading and decoding skills.
• The learner is reading well at level…
• The learner uses reading strategies to increase their reading comprehension.
• The learner is reading smoothly and with good expression.
• Learner struggles with reading comprehension.
• The learner needs to read for 15 minutes each night.
• The learner is choosing books that are too simple for their level.
• The learner has difficulty using reading strategies to decode new words.
• The learner needs to learn essential sight words to improve decoding skills.
• The learner needs to build reading vocabulary.
• The learner uses various strategies to solve one- and two-step word problems.
• Learner demonstrates a good understanding of math concepts.
• Learner demonstrates problem-solving skills.
• The learner has strengthened their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• The learner has difficulty understanding/solving word problems.
• The learner understands skills and strategie s but has a difficult time explaining processes.
• The learner would benefit from memorizing math facts.
• The learner has difficulty solving multi-step problems.
• The learner needs to slow down and check work.
• Learner memorizing basic math facts would be helpful to…
• The learner is willing to learn new writing skills and quickly applies these skills within their writing.
• The learner understands and applies the correct use of punctuation within the writing.
• Learner writing is clear and follows grammar and punctuation rules.
• Learner enjoys writing stories and can construct unique and exciting sentences.
• The learner can create precise and compelling writing that is interesting to read and easy to comprehend.
• The learner has shown significant improvement with their writing skills and consistently increases their writing comprehension and techniques.
• The learner has difficulty writing clear and understandable sentences.
• Learner words are often misplaced throughout their writing.
• Learner frequently displays grammatical errors within their writing.
• The learner needs to slow down and review their writing.

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168 Sample Report Card Comments (Plus a Printable Version)

Help has arrived just in time for report cards!

Each progress report and report card provides an opportunity for you to give parents insight into their child’s performance beyond a letter or numerical grade for conduct or academics. Parents want to know how their child is doing, but they also want to know that you get their child. Report cards also help students understand what they are doing well … as well as areas where they could improve. The best way to get these points across is via meaningful comments. Need help? We’ve got dozens of sample report card comments below that are sorted for students at every level: emerging, developing, proficient, and extending standards, plus comments that address behavior, social skills, and more.

Get a free Google Slide version of these comments by submitting your email.

Tips for report card comments

Before using the list below, it’s important to know that teacher comments should be accurate, specific, and personal. The comments below are structured to allow you to fill in the blank for a particular subject or behavior, and then expand the comment. Sometimes you might require an action like a meeting with the parent. Other times you may be encouraging the student to do something in school or at home to improve on a skill or get more practice. Either way, these sample report card comments will establish the how that attaches to the what of any number or letter grade you are documenting.

Sample report card comments for students with emerging skills

It’s often difficult to know the cause of why a student’s skills are still emerging. In these situations, parents can often help you get to the bottom of it. Be specific about areas of difficulty in these comments, and don’t be afraid to ask for a parent’s help. Here are some ideas:

• Your student could use some extra practice in [subject]. Please have them study [skill] for [time] each night.
• Your student hasn’t yet had the chance to master [specific skill]. Review sessions are available [time frame].
• Your student may need additional assistance with [skill/subject]. Completing classwork and homework is the first step to improving.

• Your student needs more practice with [specific skill]. Please check that they have completed their homework each evening.
• We will continue focusing on reinforcing your student’s positive efforts.
• Your student should put more effort into [subject area] to avoid incorrect or incomplete assignments.
• Your student would benefit from more active participation in small-group activities.
• This semester/trimester, I would like your student to work on …

Sample report card comments to encourage a follow-up phone call

We can think of many situations where a report card comment can be the first step in scheduling a phone call or meeting to discuss a concern. Write something positive about the child’s personality while requesting a parent meeting or phone call. Some examples are:

• Your student is always respectful, but I am concerned about their work. When can we meet?
• Your child is inquisitive and engaged in class, but they have quite a bit of missing work. Please call me to discuss some strategies.
• Your child has a wonderful sense of humor/is helpful/is kind but fails to turn in their assignments. Let’s meet to come up with a plan to move forward.

• Let’s work on strategies that will help your student follow through on their assignments.

Sample report card comments about (negative) behavior

Parents want to know how their child has behaved, even if they are not surprised by the behavior. Behavior can be even more difficult to write about than academics. Be careful to avoid personal attacks or statements that can make the parent or child feel judged. For difficult behaviors, stick to statistics and/or basic descriptions. Try things like:

• Your student struggles with [DESIRED behavior]. We will continue to work on this behavior at school.
• Your child struggles with [UNDESIRABLE behavior] and needs to focus on [DESIRED behavior].
• When your student is focused, they are a pleasure to have in class. Let’s meet to discuss strategies to keep them on track.
• Your student often struggles to focus in class, which harms their ability to engage well with class activities and assignments.
• [Student] is working on independent work production and staying on task.
• [Student] often struggles to focus in class, which impacts their ability to engage in class activities.
• I encourage [student] to use time wisely to finish tasks in a timely manner.
• I encourage [student] to be more responsible in completing tasks without frequent reminders.
• I encourage [student] to show that they are properly engaged in learning by improving quality of work and use of class time. Please support this at home by [idea here].
• Your student needs to slow down in order to produce quality/carefully done work.

• Your student needs to follow classroom rules more closely throughout the school day.
• Your student has exhibited [UNDESIRABLE behavior]. We will continue to reinforce appropriate behaviors.
• Your student exhibited [UNDESIRABLE behavior] [this many] times this quarter. Let’s work to reduce the incidence of this behavior to [goal] times.
• [Student] is encouraged to demonstrate more responsible attitudes and behaviors in the classroom.
• [Student] is working on using appropriate language at all times.
• [Student] requires encouragement to listen attentively during group instruction.
• [Student] requires frequent reminders to remain attentive during instruction.
• [Student] is working on voicing feelings and opinions and listening to others.

Sample report card comments for students with developing skills

For students who are still developing, focus on any improvement while also providing suggestions to keep the momentum going. Try these comments:

• Your student has come so far in [subject]! Focusing on [important skill] is the next step.
• Your student has made so much progress! They still struggle with [important skill], so that should be our next focus.
• Your child has done well, but I am concerned that their lack of [listening/focus/motivation] has contributed to a lower grade than I know they could achieve.
• Let’s work on motivating your student to reach their potential.
• I would like to see your student pay closer attention to [subject/topic] in order to get a better grade.

• If your student works as hard on [important skill] as they have worked on [improved subject], then they will be caught up in no time!
• Your child is very engaged during whole-group [subject instruction] but struggles to work independently.
• Your student’s persistence is exemplary.
• When motivated, your child does well on class assignments. We need to extend that motivation further.
• Your child has improved significantly but still needs to slow down and check their work to make sure that all answers are correct.
• Your student is struggling to understand new concepts in [subject]. Paying closer attention to the assigned reading and class lecture would be beneficial.
• The hard work is paying off! Let’s keep it up when we start working on [next skill].
• Your child is enthusiastic but still doesn’t understand [topic]. Additional work on this topic would be incredibly helpful.

• Your child requests a great deal of adult assistance when completing school work. Let’s work on encouraging independent work.

Sample report card comments for students with proficient skills

Let the parent know all the positives about their child and perhaps encourage students to dig just a little bit deeper.

• Your student comes to school each day prepared to work hard.
• I appreciate that your student does their best every single day.

• Your student is an enthusiastic member of the class and shows a willingness to learn.
• I enjoy how invested your child is in their learning.
• I appreciate your child’s dedication to their studies in my class.
• Not only is your student strong academically, but they are also a leader in the classroom.
• I appreciate that your student is always committed to doing their best.
• Your student understands the material well. Let’s find a way to help them shine.
• Your child has the potential to be at the top of the class.
• With a little more effort, your child could move up to the advanced group in [the subject where effort is lacking].

• Your child puts in great work in [preferred subject]! If they apply those skills to [non-preferred subject], there’s no stopping them.
• Your child excels at applying what they learn in the classroom to real-world and real-life situations. With a little more work, they could really go far!

Sample report card comments for students with advanced skills

Positive behaviors deserve just as much (if not more) attention as negative behaviors. These comments can be the most fun to write. Begin with a simple stem and then fill in the personal details that will make the parent smile. Example sentence starters are:

• Your child exhibits exceptional focus and diligence in their work.
• Your student is excellent at taking ownership of their learning.
• I appreciate that your child is committed to doing their best.
• Your student seeks new challenges.
• Your child has a fantastic work ethic.
• Your child exceeds expectations on a regular basis.
• Your student avoids careless errors through attention to detail.

• Your child sets high standards for themself and achieves them.
• Teaching your child is always an adventure! I love it when they …
• Your child conducts themself with maturity.
• Your child is able to focus and stays on task during independent work times.
• Your student uses instincts to deal with matters independently and in a positive way.
• I have enjoyed your child’s sense of humor in our classroom, as well as …
• Your child has an impressive understanding and knowledge about their interests.

Sample report card comments to showcase students’ strengths

Students who excel at helping out others deserve to have their skills mentioned in comments!

• [Student] is confident, positive, and a great role model for their classmates.
• [Student] is a valuable part of class. They are among the first to help and mentor classmates.
• [Student] has shown an ability to set goals and work to achieve them.
• [Student] is engaged and able to set their own learning targets.
• [Student] is an active participant. They listen attentively and make an effort to avoid distractions that could disrupt their learning.
• [Student] is accountable for their actions and takes opportunities to improve.
• [Student] relates well to classmates and appreciates peers’ perspectives.
• [Student] demonstrates emotional maturity and responds appropriately to feedback.
• [Student] always looks for ways to be helpful in the classroom.
• [Student] is dependable and reliable and follows through on commitments.
• Your student relates well to classmates and is appreciative of different perspectives and experiences.

• It is a joy teaching your student! I can always count on them to …
• Your child makes the classroom a brighter place. They often …
• Your student’s conduct is exemplary. They …
• Your student works well with classmates and often takes a leadership role.
• Not only is your child a strong student, but they are also a wonderful human being.
• Your student displays good citizenship by assisting other students.
• Your child demonstrates responsibility daily by caring for the materials in our classroom conscientiously.
• Your child is exceptionally organized and takes care of their things.
• Your child is thoughtful and kind in their interactions with others.
• Your student plans and carries out group activities carefully.
• Your child is a very special student and one that I will never forget. I will miss them next year!

While all of these comments can supplement the grades on a report card, you don’t have to wait to use them. Sending notes home between progress reports and report cards with little comments like these can bolster the parent-teacher relationship. Write them in communication folders or on postcards for that extra school-home connection.

Sample report card comments to highlight positive behavior

Sometimes you’ll have a lot to say about a student’s positive behaviors. Parents love to hear that their kids are model citizens. Here are comments that communicate all the good behaviors you see in class.

• [Student] works well with classmates on group work and often takes a leadership role.
• [Student] shows a positive attitude when working with peers. They take and give suggestions and directions effectively.
• [Student] excels at applying what they learn to real-world situations.
• It is a pleasure to have [student]’s enthusiasm and maturity in class.
• [Student] is an enthusiastic member of class and shows a willingness to learn.
• [Student] shows responsible behavior, works well in a group, and shows appreciation for classmates’ efforts.

• [Student] is focused during class activities and participates in discussions.
• [Student] works on independent work with focus and confidence.
• [Student] has overcome big challenges this year.
• [Student] follows directions promptly and accurately.
• [Student] transitions easily between classroom activities without distraction.
• [Student] is polite and uses good manners in the classroom.
• [Student] responds appropriately when corrected.
• [Student] takes classroom jobs seriously and demonstrates responsibility when completing them.

Sample report card comments for math

Providing specific information about how a child is doing in core subjects helps parents know exactly what to expect on the grades portion of the report card. And providing a positive statement about a subject can help you lead into a statement about what the child needs to work on.

• [Student] has a good understanding of math concepts taught this year. They continue to complete work correctly and enjoy math activities.
• [Student] has a positive attitude toward math but has trouble in a few key areas [list here]. Practicing every night at home will help them improve in these areas.
• [Student] demonstrates a good understanding of math concepts and communicates clearly and with strong justification.
• [Student] seems to need continuous encouragement in math. They continue to struggle with foundational math concepts for [grade level].

• [Student] is having a difficult time with certain concepts in math. Areas in need of extra work include [list here].
• [Student] is struggling to maintain pace in math. They could benefit from [practice activity here].
• [Student] is easily distracted during math and this impacts their learning.
• [Student] does well on math assignments but struggles with tests. Please make sure they study and prepare for tests as they approach.

Sample report card comments for reading and writing

Just like with math, it’s good to comment on the specific aspects of academics that students are doing well and those that they can work on. Use these comments to explain where a student is in their reading and writing progress.

• [Student] has made great improvements in [spelling, comprehension, reading] and could use support in [spelling, comprehension, reading]. Please reach out if you need supplemental learning materials to use for practice at home.
• [Student] always puts effort into their writing work.

• [Student] is able to take new skills and apply them to writing assignments.
• [Student] is able to offer responses to text and supports ideas with sound reasoning and examples.
• [Student] reads with fluency and comprehension.  
• [Student] is working on reading fluency. They would benefit from reading aloud at home.
• [Student] is able to understand and discuss text read aloud.
• [Student] consistently reads grade-level material.
• [Student] is able to choose books to read that they really enjoy.
• [Student] uses editing skills to edit writing to improve grammar and punctuation.
• [Student] organizes writing well and organizes thoughts into complete paragraphs.

• [Student] is able to analyze character actions and story plots and make inferences from what they read.
• [Student] is thoughtful and insightful in class discussion and written work. They express their ideas clearly.

Sample report card comments about social skills

As much as school is about academics, parents also worry about social skills and how their child is doing in terms of fitting in, making friends, and managing social situations. For some kids, this will be a strength and for some it will be an area of focus, but make sure to include whatever information parents need to know.

• [Student] has made many friends in the classroom.
• [Student] is well liked by classmates.
• [Student] treats other students with empathy and fairness.

• [Student] handles disagreements with peers appropriately.
• [Student] appears comfortable in new situations.
• [Student] chooses to spend free time with friends.

Sample report card comments about communication

Communication is another important skill that students are learning and honing in school that you can report on. Particularly for kids whose communication skills are either a strength or something they need help with, a comment about this can be very helpful to parents.

• [Student] has a well-developed vocabulary.
• [Student] expresses their ideas clearly.
• [Student] has a vibrant imagination and uses their imagination in storytelling and writing.
• [Student] always participates in whole-group discussions.
• [Student] can make a logical and persuasive argument in oral discussion or in writing.

• [Student] listens to the comments and ideas of others without interrupting.
• [Student] is working on participating in class. Please encourage them to raise their hand or engage in group discussion.
• I would love to hear from [student] more. Please encourage them to participate in class.
• [Student] is working on using their words to solve problems/communicate well with peers.

Sample report card comments about group work

Group work gets at a child’s ability to work with peers, solve problems, and communicate. It’s also often a barometer for social skills. Giving comments about group work can tell parents a lot about how their child is able to succeed in teamwork and if there are any red flags.

• [Student] offers constructive suggestions to peers.
• [Student] accepts recommendations of peers and acts on them when appropriate.
• [Student] takes various roles in group work as assigned or as needed.
• [Student] welcomes leadership roles in groups.
• [Student] shows fairness in distributing group tasks.
• [Student] plans and carries out group activities carefully.

• [Student] works democratically with peers.
• [Student] encourages peers during group work.
• [Student] is working on accepting their share of the work during group assignments.

Sample report card comments about time management

Managing time is a skill that gets more and more important as kids move through school, and it is something that all parents can help with at home. Help parents know how their child is doing managing time with these comments.

• [Student] approaches classroom assignments, tasks, and group work in an organized way.
• [Student] is on time and prepared for class each day.
• [Student] works at an appropriate pace.
• [Student] is able to pace their work for long-term assignments.

• [Student] completes makeup work in a timely fashion.
• [Student] is working on using time wisely.
• [Student] is working on managing time, especially when there are multiple tasks to complete during a work period.
• [Student] is working on organizing their materials and using organization to support work completion.

Sample report card comments about work habits

Same as time management, comments about work habits are helpful for parents because they explain how a student is approaching their work and how their academics are impacted because of these habits.

• [Student] is self-motivated.
• [Student] exceeds expectations with the quality of their work.
• [Student] readily grasps new concepts or ideas.
• [Student] produces neat and careful work.

• [Student] checks work thoroughly before submitting it.
• [Student] pays attention to work and submits work that does not have errors.
• [Student] is working on producing neat work.
• [Student] is working on checking work thoroughly before submitting it.
• [Student] is working on submitting work that does not have errors. They frequently require additional review to ensure that all errors are corrected.

Do you have sample report card comments to add? Share them in our We Are Teachers Helpline group on Facebook!

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107 Report Card Comments to Use and Adapt

Written by Justin Raudys

Reviewed by Sarah Tino, M.Ed.

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With Prodigy's reports, teachers can easily track student progress and see their strengths and growth opportunities – all while the student has fun playing Prodigy Math!

• Teacher Resources

Learning skills (positive comments)

Learning skills (needs improvement), addition and subtraction, skip counting, place value, comparing numbers, addition with regrouping.

• Word problems
• Language (general)

Reading responses

Reading comprehension, response journal, note taking, distance learning.

• Tips for writing effective report cards
• Key considerations for effective end-of-year report cards

Just about every teacher agrees: report card comments are important to provide insights and next steps to students and families. But there are few who actually look forward to writing them.

Because every instructor knows working under tight deadlines to create upwards of 20 unique and detailed reports at the end of the year or term isn’t exactly straightforward (or particularly fun). That's especially true in the era of distance learning.

And while no one at your school knows your students better than you do, writing valuable report card comments for each of them can be a huge challenge.

That’s why we created a list of 107 sample report card comments — starters to help you find ideas, inspiration, and insights while writing your own report cards.

The 107 report card comments in this list will help you:

• Instill a  growth mindset in students
• Build stronger home-to-school connections
• Write stronger leads and use livelier language
• Choose the right phrasing when writing positive and constructive report card comments

Report card comment starters

You'll notice that the report card comments below can act as a springboard for more fully developed ones. But don't worry, using them you'll be able to take some of these one-liners and turn them into insightful and actionable next steps!

For example, you'll be able to take a 1st grade number sense comment like "Your child is able to add and subtract numbers up to 20 using various manipulatives" and transform it into:

Your child is able to add and subtract numbers up to 20 using various manipulatives. This was evident when he was working independently to solve a real-world problem by adding toys in the classroom toy bin. As a next step, they should continue to add to larger numbers to encourage his skills. You can support him by asking him to add his own toy piles at home.

Or taking a responsibility-related learning skill comment from "Your child is able to take responsibility for her own actions both in and out of the classroom" to:

Your child is able to take responsibility for her own actions both in and out of the classroom. She often checks her agenda and day planner to make sure she has all of the necessary materials to complete work at home before leaving. During indoor recess, she takes time to tidy up everything she was playing with.

Notice the difference?

Compared to a single number or letter grade, report card comments can provide even more value to your students and their families. In other words, a number or letter or grade captures the what , while an accompanying comment captures the how .

Depending on the age group or grade level you teach, a letter or grade letter might be enough. However, research in Phi Delta Kappan, the professional journal for educators, suggests:

Comments that identify what students did well, what improvements they need to make, and how to make those improvements, provided with sensitivity to important contextual elements, can guide students on their pathways to learning success and ensure that all learn excellently.

Gather insights into student performance all year long and make report card writing easier with Prodigy, the adaptive math game that students love.

• ________ is confident, positive and a great role model for his/her classmates.
• ________ is frequently among the first to help and mentor other classmates. He/she is a valuable part of the classroom.
• ________ has shown excellent ability to set goals and be persistent in achieving them.
• ________ is interested in his/her own learning, listens attentively, and makes a solid effort to avoid distractions that could interrupt the learning process.
• ________ is accountable and responsible. He/she makes smart decisions, admits mistakes and listens to opportunities to improve.
• ________ relates well to classmates and is appreciative of different perspectives and experiences.
• ________ manages his/her emotions maturely and responds to feedback appropriately.
• ________ always looks for ways to be helpful in the classroom.
• ________ is dependable and reliable, follows directions effectively, and follows through on his/her commitments to him/herself and others.
• ________ is thoughtful, insightful and thorough in written and verbal communication, and has a talent for expressing his/her ideas clearly.
• ________ works well with classmates in group work and often takes a leadership role.
• ________ shows a positive attitude with classmates in group projects and activities, and both takes and gives suggestions and directions effectively.
• ________ shows maturity when solving problems with classmates and uses good communication.
• ________ excels at applying what he/she learns in the classroom to real-world and real-life situations.
• It has been a pleasure to have _______'s enthusiasm, positivity and maturity in my class.
• ________ is an enthusiastic member of the class and shows a willingness to learn.
• ________ shows responsible behavior, works well with a group and shows appreciation for the efforts of classmates.
• ________ is focused during classroom activities and willingly participated in class discussions.
• ________ performs independent work with confidence and focus.
• ________ works independently and takes pride in work done well.
• ________ is focused in class and willingly participates in group discussion.
• ________ is very conscientious and shows excellent effort and care with daily work.
• ________ demonstrates a willing and conscientious effort in his/her daily work.
• ________ shows a conscientious effort to learn.
• ________ has done a great job facing and overcoming big challenges this year. Please continue to nurture and encourage this behavior over the summer.
• ________ shows responsibility and follows directions whenever they are given.
• ________ listens to and follows directions precisely and attentively.
• ________ follows directions promptly and accurately.
• ________ is an active participant in class.
• ________ is a hard worker who calmly perseveres through challenging topics.
• ________ is encouraged to demonstrate more responsible attitudes and behavior in the classroom.
• ________ needs to show more appropriate behavior when interacting with classmates.
• ________ needs to pay attention to the use of appropriate language at all times
• ________ requires encouragement to listen attentively during group sharing times.
• ________  needs to listen to directions more attentively during lessons.
• ________ would benefit from showing a greater desire to contribute ideas in class.
• ________ needs frequent reminders to be attentive during instructions and lessons.
• ________ needs to improve his/her cooperation in group settings. He/she should work on voicing feelings and opinions and listening to others.
• ________ needs to improve his/her work with others. He/she must ensure to accept a share of the work when participating in a group assignment.
• ________ needs to improve on working independently and be sure to ask for assistance only when it is needed.
• ________ often struggles to focus in class, which harms his/her ability to engage well with class activities and assignments.
• ________ is encouraged to use time wisely to finish tasks in the time required.
• ________ is encouraged to be more responsible in completing tasks without needing regular reminders.
• ________ needs to show by the quality of work and use of class time that he/she is properly engaged in the learning process.
• ________ consistently needs reminders to focus on time management.
• ________ needs to follow classroom rules more closely throughout the school day.

Math (general comments)

• ________ is having considerable difficulty with math. I recommend he/she work on studying ________ and ________. This extra practice will help him/her feel more relaxed when doing math in the classroom. Please contact me if you need materials to get him/her started.
• ________ has a good understanding of all math concepts taught so far this year. He/she continues to turn in excellent assignments and especially enjoys hands-on math activities.
• ________  has a positive attitude towards math but continues to have trouble in a few key areas. He should practice every evening at home. Areas that need extra attention are ________  and ________ .
• ________  demonstrates a good understanding of all math concepts studied and communicates with clarity and good justification of reasoning.
• ________ needs to work on increasing his/her speed in math facts. He/she should continue with daily practice with a focus on addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
• ________ seems to need continuous encouragement in math. He/she continues to struggle with basic math concepts for his/her grade level.
• ________ is having a difficult time in certain areas of math. Areas in need of extra work are ________ . Working on these problem areas every night would help improve his/her learning outcomes.
• ________ is struggling to keep up in math. He/she could benefit from practicing the multiplication table and should also continue to practice the long division process.
• ________ is easily distracted during math lessons and behavioral issues are interfering with his/her learning. We will be working on more difficult subjects and he/she will struggle if he/she does not pay attention in class.
• ________ is having trouble with math tests. He/she does well on assignments, but does not seem to retain information for tests. I always give a week’s notice before tests, so please be sure ________ studies and adequately prepares for them as they approach.
• ________ is able to calculate addition and subtraction facts to 18 with confidence and accuracy.
• ________  is becoming more able to calculate addition and subtraction facts to 18 with confidence and accuracy.
• ________  requires more time and practice in calculating addition and subtraction facts to 18
• ________ needs to put more effort into learning to calculate addition and subtraction facts to 18.
• ________  is able to skip count forward and backward by twos, fives, tens, and hundreds to complete short patterns.
• ________  is learning to skip count forward and backward by twos, fives, tens, and hundreds to complete short patterns.
• ________  needs practice with skip counting forward and backward by twos, fives, tens, and hundreds to complete short patterns.
• ________  needs considerable practice with skip counting forward and backward by twos, fives, tens, and hundreds to complete short patterns.
• ________  is able to demonstrate place value concepts to give meaning to numbers from zero to 1000, identifying ones, tens, and hundreds.
• ________  is developing an understanding of place value concepts to give meaning to numbers zero to identifying ones, tens, and hundreds.
• ________  requires more time and practice to demonstrate place value concepts to give meaning to numbers 0 to 1000, identifying ones, tens, and 100s.
• ________ is able to compare numbers to 1000 using terms such as greater or less and greatest or least.
• ________ is learning to compare numbers to 1000 using terms such as greater or less and greatest or least.
• ________ requires support to compare numbers to 1000 using terms such as greater or less and greatest or least.
• ________ demonstrates a limited understanding in comparing numbers to 1000 using terms such as greater or less and greatest or least.
• ________ can demonstrate and explain the process of addition of whole numbers up to 100, with and without regrouping.
• ________ requires ongoing support to demonstrate and explain the process of addition of whole numbers up to 100 with and without regrouping.
• ________ requires considerable attention and individual instruction to demonstrate and explain the process of addition of whole numbers up to 100 with and without regrouping.

Word problems (math)

• ________ is able to complete word problems using one- and two-digit addition, showing his/her work and writing a full sentence answer.
• ________ is becoming more confident in his/her ability to complete word problems using one- and two-digit addition, showing his/her work and writing a full sentence answer.

As we move into language and literacy, the following sections include starter report card comments which cover reading, writing, oral communication and critical thinking skills.

Language arts (general)

• ________ ’s (comprehension, spelling, reading) has greatly improved, but he/she still needs extra work in (comprehension, spelling, reading). Please contact me if you need supplemental learning materials to use at home for practice.
• ________  is conscious of putting care into his/her daily writing work, and frequently goes beyond the minimum requirements for assignments.
• ________ has trouble with his handwriting. I believe he/she can form letters well, but has to slow down and take a little more time. Neater handwriting will improve his/her schoolwork overall.
• ________ makes a good effort to make his/her handwriting legible. He/she is able to print on the lines, use good spacing, and form letters correctly.
• ________ needs to focus on her spelling. More improvement is needed in the areas of (dictation, weekly spelling tests, sentence structure). Daily practice at home will help improve his/her results.
• ________ shows the ability to quickly use spelling, punctuation and grammar rules that were recently taught. He/she is able to quickly learn new skills and is eager to apply them to his/her writing.
• ________ is having considerable difficulty with reading, particularly with fluency and comprehension.
• ________ speaks well in front of the class, but requires improvement in written language. He/she is having trouble with (dictation, copying words correctly, story writing, creating logical sequences). Further practice is needed in this area.
• ________ continues to make excellent progress in spelling and reading. He/she works hard to submit work that is free of grammatical errors.
• ________ has difficulty remembering previously discussed writing skills and often makes errors with punctuation, grammar, and overall sentence structure. Basic writing skills need improvement.
• ________ is able to offer direct responses to his/her readings and supports ideas with sound reasoning and specific examples.
• ________ is learning to offer more direct responses to her reading experiences supported by reasons, examples, and details.
• ________ needs frequent support to offer direct responses to his/her reading experiences supported by reasons, examples, and details.
• ________ shows good ability when completing reading comprehension tests.
• ________ would benefit from extra practice with reading aloud and discussion of content.
• ________ consistently demonstrates comprehension of short spoken texts by answering questions, and explaining the events described.
• ________ consistently reads grade-level material independently.
• ________ uses good editing skills and correctly places capitals, quotation marks, question marks, apostrophes, commas, and periods.
• ________ is doing a good job of breaking a story into paragraphs
• ________ determines various forms of writing and identifies important ideas through the development of insightful questions and answers.
• ________ is able to analyze character actions, story plots, and shows strong fluency with reading.
• ________ uses correct spelling, grammar and punctuation when writing simple sentences.
• ________ is encouraged to show increased attention to the use of correct spelling, grammar and punctuation with general writing skills.
• ________ needs more time and practice in the use of correct spelling, grammar and punctuation with general writing skills.
• ________ requires considerable assistance to achieve the correct spelling, grammar and punctuation when writing simple sentences.
• ________ shows an excellent understanding of note taking from lectures and readings in preparation for tests and assignments.
• ________ requires ongoing support to develop an understanding of note taking from lectures and readings in preparation for tests.
• ________ was very engaged and focused during distance learning activities, and participated in class discussions.
• ________ stayed motivated to complete assignments during distance learning, and turned in all required materials on time. 
• ________ needed some extra prompting to stay engaged during online lessons, but participated well in discussions when called upon. 
• ________ modeled good online learning behavior for other students.
• ________ was disruptive during online learning and did not meaningfully participate in class discussions.
• ________ handled technical problems well and was always prepared.
• Although he/she couldn’t always access a device, _________ consistently completed online assignments and asked thoughtful questions.
• ________ should ask more questions during online discussions to avoid confusion later.
• ________’s attendance during online lessons was infrequent and assignments were not always completed.
• ________ worked well independently and in a group setting during distance learning activities.
• ________ is excellent at completing distance learning activities independently, but struggled to engage with his/her classmates during breakout sessions or class discussions.
• ________ is a technology superstar! He/she rarely needed assistance and even helped other classmates troubleshoot issues.
• ________ asks good questions and always reaches out proactively when he/she needs help with an assignment or lesson.

Tips for teachers to write more effective student report card comments

1. give yourself extra time and start writing comments early.

Somewhere around the halfway point to your deadline for report cards, you make your best effort to use time at the end of each week to reflect — and jot down notes — about your students’ performance and class week.

What are their strengths and weaknesses? How are their social skills developing with classmates? How is their class participation - are they an enthusiastic learner? Have they shown great improvement in one particular subject area? Are homework assignments getting done? Have any new challenges come up that affect learning?

Even just a few minutes of note-taking in the weeks preceding report card deadlines will help to ease your stress when the time comes to write your final comments.

Moreover, having a dated log of information detailed throughout the school year will help you remember how students are performing throughout each week, which can be valuable information come parent-teacher conference time.

This will also help to engage and reassure parents who want relevant and detailed commentary about their child’s performance at school.

2. Use free, curriculum-aligned apps for teachers

Use Prodigy to write insightful report cards with a minimum of hassle. Prodigy Math is an engaging math adventure for students where success depends on correctly answering adaptive math questions. 

As students play, you’ll get insights into:

• Which skills students are practicing
• How far they’ve progressed through the curriculum
• What they’ve mastered and where they need more support

Use one of Prodigy’s eight reports to track student progress throughout the year. When the time comes to write report card comments, you’ll have detailed reports on all your students’ achievements.

Just getting started with Prodigy? No problem! The first time students explore the world of Prodigy Math, they’ll start completing the Placement Test — without even knowing. Once they’re done, you’ll have a snapshot of the grade level they’re at, what they know and specific skills they still need to work on.

Spend more time teaching and less time grading

Prep for standardized tests, deliver adaptive skill practice or test students on a new skill — all while they play Prodigy Math, Prodigy English, or both!

3. Be encouraging, informational and professional

Although every report card cannot be glowingly positive, do strive to write in an encouraging and informational tone. As you write constructive report card comments, use encouraging language that focuses on the student’s opportunity for improvement.

For example, instead of describing a student struggling with listening as a “bad listener,” remark that the student “would benefit from listening more carefully.”

If appropriate, frame a negative comment in terms of what students are doing well -- and consider how this more successful characteristic can help them bolster performance in other areas.

4. Use a consistent format

Lead your report card comments with the positive comments, followed by areas that need more attention.

Choosing the right format for reporting information will simplify the entire process, while resulting in a clearer and more organized final product.

If you are unclear about your school’s format for report cards, request samples or consult with other teachers or staff members to clarify.

5. Be honest

Being open and honest about a student’s performance requires tact and consideration with regard to how you  express  those comments. Be transparent, and remain mindful that your goal is to improve your students’ learning experience.

Openness and honesty are key to ensuring that experience is the best it can be. If possible, discuss what  intervention strategies  you can use to help improve the student’s learning outcomes. 

As elementary teacher Donna Donaghue remarks in her book  A Guide for Beginning Elementary Teachers: Getting Hired and Staying Inspired :

If there is a problem, most parents will be grateful to you for telling them and will want to help you correct it as soon as possible. Many problems that show up at school are also problems noticed at home, so your comments will not surprise parents. Ideally, at some point prior to receiving the progress report, parents have already discussed the problem with you.

6. Move on if you get stuck

If you get stuck completing the comments for a particular student, move on to your other students and return to it later. You will likely have more trouble completing comments for students who have multiple areas needing further improvement and attention.

Feel free to move on and return to those students periodically or as you find the right language to express your insights.

7. Keep parents and guardians in mind

While every report card comment is ultimately about your student, think of your students’ parents or guardians as much as possible and offer suggestions for their participation.

In fact, if you can, keep parents up to date on an ongoing basis. This will help ensure they don't get caught off guard by any of your comments.

As you make note of your students’ strengths and weaknesses, endeavor to include practical insights into how parents can involve and support their child at home. If possible, make reference to how you use  differentiated instruction  to support the student in question.

Simple examples of tips for parents include:

• "Encourage your child to read. It doesn't have to be on your own either. Dedicating time before bed to read together can help make it seem like less of a chore."
• "Find homework help for your child if needed. Myself and other parents who are also getting homework help for their child are great resources to get started."
• "Ensure that your child completes their homework by creating a homework routine with your family where incentives like TV or computer time come after homework."
• "Help your child with organization skills at home. If a room in your house could be tidier, try using that as an opportunity to sort things like toys or dishes and utensils."
• "Help your child prepare for math tests by focusing their skills in addition and subtraction. If they don't like studying with traditional worksheets, try a digital game-based learning tool to help get them excited about the process."

As high school educator and teaching comprehension expert Anne Goudvis writes in her book Strategies That Work:

It is important that you include the parents in your comment so they know the child’s education is a joint mission. Sometimes you need to sound firm so that parents know you need their help and that you will not allow their child to continue inappropriate behavior.

8. Try not to repeat yourself

It is unlikely that your students or parents will compare their report card comments, but it is still a best practice to aim for unique commentary for each student that reflects each, individual learning outcome.

9. Proofread, even if you don’t want to

Report card time is perhaps your busiest period of the year, and it is understandable that you want to simply get them over with.

Despite this, you should make sure to double check all your comments before hitting print and handing them out. All your communications to parents are a reflection of you as a teacher, and should mirror the care and attention you show your students in class.

10. Notify parents

Make use of your school’s parent portal or email system to let parents know — as needed — that report card time is coming up.

This will help parents be prepared, and will also ensure that any important questions they may have are addressed before the final report cards are delivered.

Did you know?

If you're using Prodigy Math in your classroom, you can connect parents to follow their child's progress. A free parent account comes with a monthly report card and insights into classroom learning, helping them stay informed of how their child is doing in class. They can also send their child an encouraging message to cheer their child on as they play and practice skills in Prodigy!

11. Use specific examples with the help of direct observation

Record and use classroom anecdotes in your assessments. No matter how involved you are in your students’ progress, it can still be difficult to produce specific examples related to their performance if you haven’t recorded them along the way.

When you notice a positive or negative skill, ability, strength, or weakness in a class activity or assignment, be sure to note it down so that you may refer to it in your report card comments. Likewise, consider noting a sample of a student’s work every week or two.

To help with ease of access, keep ongoing files of this work in a personal folder or use a digital tool such as a Google Doc.

Putting this into practice is a time-saver and helps prevent last-minute stress. A strategy like direct observation and note-taking (as soon as possible) is far more reliable than trying to recall information and behaviors from weeks or months prior.

12. Try using tech to help

Writer's block happens to all of us, including teachers. If the report card comments in this article didn't help, fear not, there are still plenty of tools and resources to give you a helping hand.

One new option for teachers is using artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with report card ideas. For example, teachers can use tools like ChatGPT to generate examples for their specific needs.

When using chat technology, try to keep your prompt concise and easy to follow. A good template prompt to follow is:

"Write [number] report card comments for students studying [subject] in [grade]."

Here are some more specific examples to help get you started:

• Write 50 report card comments for students studying social studies in 5th grade.
• Generate 20 report card remarks commending a student for a positive attitude to learning.
• Create 10 report card comments that focus on a student needing to improve their attitude to learning.

Alternatively, you can use spreadsheets and report card builders to manually piece together a report card based on a template of comments.

Important tip: When using AI chat technology, make sure you don't submit any personal details about you or your students. Instead let the tool use a placeholder like "Student".

Key considerations for report card comments at the end of the year

Report card comments should aim to deliver feedback to students and parents that is  personalized, detailed,  and  meaningful .

Writing report card comments doesn’t have to be stressful. Use these strategies to create livelier, more meaningful evaluations.

Effective report card comments emphasize and discuss:

• The specific, notable strengths that a student has shown and should attempt to continue to show
• The specific elements of knowledge, skills, and other outcomes recognized in the curriculum that are the most pertinent to a student’s achievement or development in the period of assessment
• The major next steps for improvement that will: identify the student’s most important learning needs, offer next steps for students and offer specific recommendations for how parents and guardians can help the student’s learning habits and skills (or the development of those habits and skills)

Effective report card comments are personalized – customized to each, individual student – and discuss:

• The student’s learning preferences, willingness to learn, and interests
• Detailed evidence of learning or skill-development gathered from in-class observations, and/or student assignments

Effective report card comments are expressed with clear and simple phrasing, using:

• An encouraging and/or positive tone
• Language that is easy to understand for both students and parents, as opposed to educational jargon used from the curriculum

Report Card Comments: Final Thoughts

Common Sense Education observes that "effective parent communication is crucial in helping students learn. But, for busy teachers it can be challenging just to keep up... Transparency and equity are key to managing any communication between home and school."

Personalized report card comments that are clear, precise, and meaningful are essential for informing students and their parents about what students have learned, what their strengths are and how they can effectively progress.

Among the pressure and deadlines of writing report cards, it can be helpful to keep these key goals in mind.

Get inspired by the report card comment examples — and strategies for success — above to ensure that precision, clarity, and meaning shine through in your report card comments.

When it comes time to hand out your report cards, you can do so with the full confidence that you are doing yourself — and each of your students — the justice your hard work deserves.

Gather student insights on Prodigy

Create or log in to your free teacher account on Prodigy — a standards-aligned, game-based learning platform that assesses student progress and performance as they play. Use Prodigy to motivate student learning, control the questions they answer as they play and collect student learning insights all year long.

100+ Great End of Year Report Card Comments Teachers Can Use In Every Classroom – Encouraging & Appropriate Tips

Every parent wants to know how their child is doing at school. End of year report card comments is valuable insights on how the teacher assessed the child for that year. These card comments tell parents, and students, about their performances, accomplishments, and required improvements.

Table of Contents

Great ideas for how to make it easier to write appropriate report card comments, general concepts to remember when writing report card comments for students.

• Report Card Comments on Student’s Strengths, Skills, Achievements or Positive Habits & Attitude

Negative Report Card Comments Focused on Potential Areas of Improvement

Free downloadable report card comments for students, final report card comments for the end of the year, eo year report card comments for good reading comprehension, project based learning, a positive growth mindset, excellent attitude and participation.

Communication skills, language attention and student behavior and wellbeing all go together great during the year. Whether distance learning or in community classroom, perseverance for children is key.

For Math, History, Vocabulary, Writing and other homework

Praises desire to improve and build great habits, thoughtful negative feedback for homework mistakes and social skills improvement to build confidence in classrooms.

We will cover end of year report cards creative motivation in classroom comments for all years. Library year report cards, solution-focused thinking and curriculum, emotional social skills and worksheets. Comment when improvement is difficult, learning directions and discussions makes great writing strategy for others.

Difficulty in grade school, middle school and high school

The average college professor isn’t an online prodigy – they have a variety of lifestyle skills and character traits.

Teachers know the value of report card comments, and they don’t take writing it lightly. Despite knowing how important report card comments are, few teachers look forward to writing it.

We’ve created a list of ideas for comments that teachers can use as inspiration and adapt for each student.

Often writing report card comments are at the bottom of the end-of-year to-do-list. There are so many other things that need to happen at the same time, and good report card comments take time to write. It’s not something that can be rushed.

By making notes throughout the year, the teacher will have ready-to-use data to draw from.  These notes help to remember specific achievements or memorable things the student did or said.

Create a databank of comment ideas that you can adapt for a specific student. A list of comment ideas may inspire and help to say similar things differently.

Begin with the card comments of students that you know what to write. Writing the easy comments first starts the process and makes it easier to continue.

If stuck, create a list of adjectives that describe the student. Then use these words to write the report card comments.

Before you start, make sure you are familiar with the school’s rules regarding writing report card comments. Does the school prefer a personalized comment, or do they use general comments?

If left to the last minute, errors could occur. Write the comments with enough time available to proofread for any grammatical or spelling errors. Proofreading also helps to make sure the comment says what the teacher meant to say and that it is clearly understood by the reader. Make sure the student’s name is spelled correctly and that letters in words weren’t interchanged like “ot” instead of “to.”

Here is a checklist of things to look out for when creating comments.

• Always write the truth.
• Be specific.
• Write clear, simple, and concise.
• Avoid educational jargon and terms.
• Use synonyms instead of repeating the same words.
• Write sentences of different lengths.

Generally, comments should be in line with the student’s grades. The comments should be in context to the rest of the assessment. Explaining the student’s grade may be helpful to the parents to know why the child did so well, improved or why they underachieved.

100 Report Card Comment Ideas

Report card comments includes the student’s best achievements, strengths or attributes; their areas of success; and where they need improvement.

Report Card Comments on Student’s Strengths, Skills , Achievements or Positive Habits & Attitude

• I enjoyed having _____ in my class
• It was wonderful to have ___ in my class
• It was a pleasure to have ____ in my class. He/she positively contributed to group activities
• It was wonderful to have ___’s enthusiasm in the class
• ____ helped make the year a pleasant one
• ____ is a pleasant addition to any class with his/her friendly and cooperative attitude
• ____has a pleasant personality and makes friends easily
• ____ is friendly and sincere
• ____’s friendly and fair manner makes him//her good at mediating conflict
• ____’s friendly and polite manner made him/her a popular member of the __ grade.
• ____ is eager to help and mentor classmates
• ____is willing to help
• ____volunteers regularly
• ____ is anxious to please
• ____ showed a willingness to learn with an enthusiastic and positive attitude
• ____ works well in a group
• ____ showed appreciation for the contribution and efforts of classmates
• ____ comfortably takes a leadership role and works well in a team
• ____ effectively makes and receive suggestions in group activities
• ____ has a positive attitude toward classmates
• ____ looks for ways to be helpful in the classroom
• ____ comprehends quickly
• ____ enthusiastically participates in
• ____ is focused in class and eagerly participates
• ____ is willing to participate in the class and group discussion
• ____has improved steadily throughout the year
• ____ accepts responsibility and owns up to his/her mistakes
• ____’s work habits improved greatly
• ____ is ready to accept more responsibility
• ____ has a positive attitude in improving
• ____ has earned a fine report card
• ____ progressed consistently
• ____ pays attention in class and follows directions carefully
• ____ listens and follows instructions well
• ____ listens attentively, wants to learn, and tries to avoid distractions
• ____ listens attentively and follows instructions accurately
• ____learned to listen better and paying attention in class
• ____ participates actively in classroom discussions. He/she has matured so much this year and now eagerly raises his/hands
• ____ follows directions precisely
• ____ responsible and accountable for his/her actions. He/she admits mistakes and is eager to improve. He/she listens to suggestions on how to improve.
• ____ communicates maturely with classmates
• ____ uses his/her time wisely and finishes assignments on time
• ____ expresses ideas clearly
• ____ exhibits organizational skills
• ____ does neat and thorough work
• ____ is a willing worker who takes a keen interest in all his/her work
• ____ has great potential and diligently works toward achieving his/her goals
• ____ is a conscientious worker
• ____ demonstrates leadership skills
• ____ performs well in everything he/she undertakes
• ____ is a hard worker and performed solidly this year with growth in
• ____ matured nicely this year, academically and socially
• ____ demonstrates maturity in solving problems and challenging situations
• ____ has grown in so many ways this year and worked hard to meet
• ____ manages emotions maturely with appropriate responses to feedback
• ____ has matured nicely and is no longer so shy but participates enthusiastically and easily in social situations
• ____ has done wonderfully in overcoming challenges this year. Thank you for your help and cooperation in supporting him/her
• Thank you for your assistance at home with _________
• Thank you for the help I know you have given him/her
• Thank you for your cooperation

Writing the truth isn’t always that easy. Here are card comments ideas to write negative traits or achievements positively.

• ____ could benefit from
• ____ could benefit from reading more/many library books
• ___ needs help with organizational skills, such as
• ___ could benefit from improving his/her work habits such as
• ___ needs repetition to retain information
• ___ would benefit from improving self-control skills
• Please continue this summer with as many reading experiences as possible
• ___ has done well in facing challenges this year. Please continue to encourage this behavior over the summer
• ___ needs to listen more attentively during lessons and group sharing times
• ___ needs frequent reminders to be attentive during
• ___ needs to be more attentive during
• ___ would benefit from contributing and participating more actively in class
• ___ would benefit from cooperating more in group activities. He/she could work on how to listen to others and voicing his/her opinions
• ___ would benefit from working more independently and asking assistance only when needed.
• ____ needs to improve using time wisely when completing assignments
• ____ needs more practice in completing assignments on time
• ____ grasps difficult concepts but needs to work faster
• ____ is encouraged to be responsible in
• ____ would benefit from practicing ____ this summer. His/her eagerness to do the right thing will help him/her to improve in
• ____ is encouraged to focus more on completing work within the time frame.
• ____ would benefit more in engaging in the learning process with improved quality of work and using time wisely
• ____ needs to work on increasing his/her speed in completing tasks
• ____ has shown improvement in ____ He/she will benefit more by practicing these skills during the summer
• ___ sometimes takes too long in completing assignments. With additional practice to working faster, he/she will accomplish even more
• ___ needs to develop a more mature sense of responsibility
• ____ will benefit if he/she improves his/her work habits
• ____needs to listen more attentively to directions
• ____ has difficulty in retaining
• ____ needs more practice to complete
• ____ will benefit if he/she is more consistent in his/her efforts, especially in
• ____ needs to finish assignments
• ____ will benefit from practicing his/her handwriting
• ____ needs the motivation to complete tasks
• ____ does not work according to his/her ability
• ____ needs to proofread his/her work before handing in assignments
• ____’s assignments aren’t neat
• ____ needs to spend more time on assignments
• ____ needs to learn to be less sensitive about
• ____ needs to learn to listen and wait until someone has finished talking and not interrupt them
• ___ will benefit from applying his/her skills to all work, especially

Great Year End Report Card Extras For Kindness, Respect, Extra Time Preschool Social Skills – Quality Report Card Comments

End of term development of time management – end messages – ending comments for grades, hard work habits and skills.

If you’d like a Free Downloadable copy of this list, we now have that available. Just click the button below to download the pdf file of these report cards for students.

Bryan Bigari is the current editor of Fractus Learning. As a father of three, Bryan has a passion for helping kids to both excel in school and have fun with friends and parents. He has worked on education issues at the state and federal level, and is looking forward to sharing his first hand education and toy knowledge with you.

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The Joy of Teaching

Sharing creative ideas and lessons to help children learn.

100 Sample Report Card Comments and 5 Strategies for Simplifying Report Cards

April 7, 2020 by Evan-Moor | 1 Comment

I don’t know any teacher who looks forward to doing report cards. This time always seems to be packed to the max with additional testing days and long to-do lists. Despite this, report cards are an important tool that schools employ to show parents how their child is progressing in school and should be completed with careful consideration.

Report card comments should be personalized for each student and provide meaningful feedback to help parents understand their child’s progress. The most important concept to remember when writing report card comments is to frame each statement in encouraging and positive language.

Here are a few tips to help you provide honest and valuable feedback while being encouraging and professional, including 100 sample report card comments that you can use today.

Download a free PDF of 100 Report Card Comments here! 

5 strategies for simplifying report cards, 1. employ the sandwich feedback technique:.

• Always begin with a positive comment and end with a positive comment. This approach can help parents receive any negative feedback with the understanding that you “see” their child and are approaching his or her learning with a “growth mindset” and not criticism.

2. Highlight areas of growth

• Every student has areas of growth throughout the school year. Find an area he or she has improved on and mention it. It could be in a field of study such as reading comprehension, fluency, math facts, handwriting, asking important questions or a personal attribute such as persevering, helping others, leadership in the classroom, etc.

3. Expand on areas of improvement

• Highlight important areas for improvement and provide practical advice/examples of how to work on this at home. Provide simple strategies that parents can implement that will give them a tangible tool to help their child at home. Even if you think the parent won’t or isn’t interested, it is a good idea to provide documented options for your school files.

4. Be transparent

• Being honest about students’ progress takes careful consideration. Be tactful in your comments and back up your observations with specific examples. (I recommend taking notes on students’ progress throughout the semester and using this documentation during report card time.) This is also a great time to include helpful strategies/ resources and offer advice on how parents can support their student at home.

5. Proofread

• Always proofread your reports before sending them. Report cards reflect you as a teacher and should be treated with the same consideration you show your students in the classroom.

100 Report Card Comments

Participation/behavior/attitude.

• Takes an active role in discussions.
• Consistently cooperates with the teacher and other students.
• Listens well and shares ideas frequently.
• Works democratically with peers.
• Shows self-confidence in…
• Works well in groups, planning and carrying out activities.
• Follows directions well.
• An enthusiastic learner who enjoys school.
• Tackles new challenges with a positive attitude.
• Has a positive attitude about school.
• Consistently makes good choices during the school day.
• Shows respect for peers and teachers.
• Transitions easily between classroom activities and is not a distraction to others.
• Is sensitive to the thoughts and opinions of others.
• Is a leader and positive role model for students.
• Is enthusiastic about participating.
• Takes an active part in discussions about (topic).
• Speaks with confidence.
• Volunteers often.
• Has a great sense of humor and enjoys our class assignments.

Needs Improvement

• Has difficulty staying focused and on task. · Needs to actively participate in classroom discussion.
• Needs to work on not distracting others during class.
• Is learning to be careful, cooperative, and fair.
• I would like to see him/her work on…
• One area for improvement is…
• Eager to participate in class but needs to raise his/her hand.
• Is becoming more independent when completing class assignments.
• Needs frequent reminders to stay focused throughout the day.
• When motivated, does well on class assignments.
• Needs to work on following written and oral directions.
• Needs to actively participate in classroom discussions.
• Frequent absences are affecting (name’s) schoolwork.
• Needs to work on treating others with respect.
• Needs to work on completing homework assignments on time.
• Frequently comes to class unprepared.
• Often seems tired at school.
• Gets upset easily when (topic).
• Although _____________’s growth in social skills and maturity is continuing, it is not consistent.
• _______ continues to make nice progress this year concerning his/her attitude in the classroom and on the playground.

Time Management/Work Habits

• Uses class time wisely.
• Is a self-motivated student.
• Completes work on time.
• Is very organized.
• Demonstrates problem-solving skills and is persistent.
• Has done a great job facing and overcoming big challenges this year.
• Is very responsible and turns in work on time.
• Is a flexible learner and adapts to changes easily.
• Has made improvements in the area of…
• Has strengthened his/her skills in…
• Does not complete assignments on time. Seems unable to finish.
• Is encouraged to use time wisely to finish tasks in the time required.
• Struggles to stay organized and find appropriate materials (paper/pencil).
• Needs to slow down to improve the quality of his/her work.
• Is not working to full potential.
• Is easily distracted.
• Needs to listen and follow directions more carefully.
• Needs more opportunities to…
• Grades are suffering because of missed assignments.
• Would benefit from…

Growth Mindset

• Has demonstrated very good progress this year.
• Is learning how to be a better listener and takes direction well.
• Has worked very hard this year and has made strong gains in the area of ______.
• Has shown great improvement with ______.
• Is progressing nicely and shows consistent improvement in many areas of schoolwork, including ______.
• Is learning to be cooperative when working in groups.
• Is developing more positive ways to interact with others.
• Is listening to directions more carefully.
• Has continued to make steady progress with…
• Has shown noticeable improvement in…

General Subject Area Comments

• Has good reading and decoding skills.
• Is reading well at level…
• Uses reading strategies to increase his/her reading comprehension.
• Is reading smoothly and with good expression.
• Struggles with reading comprehension.
• I would like to see (name) read for 15 minutes each night.
• Is choosing books that are too simple for his/her level.
• Has difficulty using reading strategies to decode new words.
• Needs to learn basic sight words to improve decoding skills.
• Needs to build reading vocabulary.
• Uses various strategies to solve one- and two-step word problems.
• Demonstrates a good understanding of math concepts.
• Demonstrates strong problem-solving skills.
• Has strengthened his/her critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Has difficulty understanding/solving word problems.
• Understands skills and strategies but has a difficult time explaining processes.
• Would benefit from memorizing math facts.
• Has difficulty solving multi-step problems.
• Needs to slow down and check work.
• Memorizing basic math facts would be helpful to…
• Is willing to learn new writing skills and quickly applies these skills within his/her writing.
• Understands and applies the correct use of punctuation within writing.
• Writing is clear and follows grammar and punctuation rules.
• Enjoys writing stories and can construct unique and interesting sentences.
• Is able to create clear and effective writing that is interesting to read and easy to comprehend.
• Has shown great improvement with his/her writing skills and is consistently increasing his or her writing comprehension and techniques.
• Has difficulty writing clear and understandable sentences.
• Words are often misplaced throughout his/her writing.
• Frequently displays grammatical errors within his/her writing.
• (Name) needs to slow down and review his/her writing.

Report cards are used to show parents what students have learned, areas they excel in, and areas for improvement. Although report card grades reflect how well a student is performing against a set of standards, I would refrain from any comparisons on report cards. Every student matures and develops at a different rate, and it is important not to focus on how well children compare to their classmates, but rather to highlight how they are excelling in their personal goals/growth.

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223 Copy and Paste Final Report Card Comments

Hey, Teacher! Is it report writing time again?

Hopefully these comments for student report cards will come in helpful.

Copy and paste these report card comments for your students. It’ll save you time and heartache!

Read below for my full list of report card comment ideas:

Positive Comments

Use a few positive comments to show the strengths of the student and how they’ve improved recently.

Positive Attitude to Learning

• Comes to class every day ready and willing to learn.
• Has an inquisitive and engaged mind.
• Is excited to tackle her tasks every day.
• Likes to come to school and learn with her friends.
• Has a positive attitude to self-development.
• Tends to come into the classroom with a big smile and an open mind.
• Sets herself very high standards and strives to meet them each and every day.

Showing Improvement

• Is consistently improving.
• Is developing very well for her age.
• Has shown strong signs of growth in all learning areas.
• Has made clear and commendable gains.
• Improves each and every day.
• Her hard work and effort has paid off.

Positive Behavior

• Is always very well behaved during class time.
• Has a good ability to avoid peers who she sees may be distractions to her learning.
• Is always willing to listen to instructions.
• Is a very helpful and respectful student.
• Never misbehaves in class.
• Sets a good standard for classmates to follow.
• Is very good at following the rules.

Read Also: Words to Describe a Student

Shows Respect for Others

• Has a great deal of respect for all visitors to the classroom.
• Cares for and respects her classmates.
• Is always respectful to classroom equipment.
• Always puts her hand up and follows instructions.
• Is very considerate of others and often puts others’ needs and interests at the front of her mind.
• Is a very respectful and responsible classmate.
• Has proven to be a courteous and polite classmate.
• Is held in high regard for her kindness to others.
• Is a very outgoing, positive and upbeat student.
• Tackles every task with enthusiasm and self-belief.
• Is building her confidence more and more every day.
• Has shown remarkable growth in confidence this year.
• Has reached many achievements this year, which is reflected in her budding confidence.
• Is a self-assured young learner who is always willing to try something new.
• Can always be trusted with tasks assigned to her.
• Conducts herself with honesty and integrity at all times.
• Is trusted with school equipment including expensive computer technology.
• Is open, honest and upfront about her thoughts and beliefs.
• Shares thoughtful and genuine opinions during lessons.
• Is always willing to self-reflect and provide genuine analyses of her progress.

Self-Expression

• Is a very expressive and confident student.
• Has a great ability to express thoughts and feelings in writing.
• Is always willing to express herself in front of the class with a bold and confident voice.
• Has artistic talent and can articulate her thoughts through drawing and painting very well.
• Is a very articulate public speaker when talking about issues that she knows well.
• Is always willing to contribute her own thoughts and beliefs in class discussions.
• Uses her body and hand movements to express herself artistically.

High Motivation

• Has a great deal of intrinsic motivation . She’s a real go getter!
• Has bucket loads of initiative.
• Has an active mind and is eager to achieve.
• Comes to class with a huge willingness to participate.
• Never wants to waste a day in the classroom.
• Loves to soak up all the information around her.
• Is an ambitious and proactive student.
• Knows her goals and strives every day to achieve them.

Strong Communication Skills

• Projects her voice very well when communicating in class.
• Is effective at using the written word to express herself.
• Has a great deal of confidence when speaking to groups.
• Is very good at clearly and succinctly speaking up when she feels she has a valuable contribution.
• Consistently provides valuable contributions to class discussion.
• Is a skilled public speaker.
• Has shown great strides in written communication skills in recent months.

Is Neat and Tidy

• Always keeps her belongings neatly organized.
• Looks after her belongings very carefully.
• Always has neat book work which shows respect and high regard for her own work.
• Keeps her desk space very tidy, clean and organized.
• Takes pride in keeping her work neat, clean and tidy for every submission.
• Keeps her personal work spaces very well organized.

Good Listening Skills

• Is an active listener who is always ready to respond with relevant and engaging questions.
• Listens thoughtfully to other people’s ideas and contributes her own thoughtful ideas.
• Listens with an open mind to her classmates’ perspectives.
• Always listens intently with the hope of learning new things.
• Concentrates and pays close attention during demonstrations to ensure she understands task requirements.
• Takes directions well and is quick to apply directions to tasks.
• Is always attentive in class and asks for clarification when required.
• Is good at working in small groups unaided by a teacher.
• Listens intently to others and takes their opinions in mind.
• Excels when given leadership roles in small groups.
• Appears to thrive in group learning situations.
• Has developed strong skills in communicating in groups.
• Works productively in groups of all sizes to get tasks done.
• Has a knack for managing multiple personalities in group situations.
• Could work on sharing resources more fairly during group tasks.
• Needs to work on allowing other group members equal time to speak during group discussions.

Strong Organization and Time Management

• Always arrives to class on time with her books and is ready to learn.
• Is exceptionally good at completing tasks in a timely manner.
• Is a natural organizer and is often seen helping to get her peers organized and ready for tasks.
• Is always trusted to meet deadlines.
• Uses color coding and headings in her books effectively to organize her notes.
• Keeps a neat and organized work space at all times.

Good at Homework

• Always comes to class with very neat and well written homework.
• Tends to complete independent homework tasks with ease.
• Thrives with independent homework tasks, which are always presented in a timely manner.
• Comes to class with great questions based on the assigned homework tasks, showing thoughtfulness and independence.
• Can be trusted to complete her homework in time.
• Often asks for extra homework. She has shown great thirst for knowledge.

Read Also: 27 Pros and Cons of Homework

Strong Participation

• Is always willing to jump in and participate in any task.
• Is a great helper, always giving people a hand when she sees they are in need.
• Participates in all tasks, no matter her skill level. This enthusiasm is laudable.
• Always comes to class willing to get involved in the daily activities.
• Is always the first person to put their hand up to volunteer for a task.
• Loves to learn by getting involved and gaining first-hand experiences.
• Is beginning to develop her own interest and is eager to learn more about them.
• Has a strong personal interest in ________ and has been taking the initiative to explore the topic.
• Is very enthusiastic about ________ and has shown great promise in this area.
• Has picked a great extracurricular hobby of _____. Her skills learned in this hobby has helped to boost her confidence in the classroom.
• Shows interest in a variety of different topics which she has been enthusiastically exploring during free study time.
• Always finds personal interest in topics presented in class.

Independence

• Is showing increasing independence to learn and study without the need for excessive guidance.
• Is a fiercely independent person who knows what she wants and goes out to get it.
• Has an independent and free spirited mind.
• Is not afraid to go against the majority if she is certain of her beliefs and thoughts.
• Happily goes about her tasks independently but seeks help when required.
• Shows confidence striking out on her own to do things she is interested in.

Strong Learning and Thinking Skills

• Is very resourceful and uses the internet, books and peers to find new knowledge.
• Is aware of her learning styles and makes every effort to work to her strengths as a student.
• Uses higher-order thinking strategies like analysis and critique to question assumptions.
• Knows when she needs help and asks for it willingly.
• Thinks deeply about her responses before providing them.
• Is very good at reflecting on her weaknesses and working on them to grow as a person.
• Is great at solving problems using her own initiative.

Good Attention to Detail

• Pays close attention to the details of a tasks so that she doesn’t miss anything.
• Is very systematic about going about her tasks so she can complete them thoroughly.
• Is great at identifying small and nuanced mistakes in her own work.
• Always creates very presentable and professional looking pieces of work.
• Has great self-reflection skills , being able to identify her own strengths and weaknesses.
• Can pause and look at her own work to identify areas for improvement.
• Has the ability to stop and change course when she identifies areas for improvement.
• Is very good at identifying and repairing errors in drafts.
• Has exercised great thoughtfulness about her own capabilities.
• Has shown the ability to empathize with classmates and show great compassion.

Perseverance and Determination

• Shows great determination when is set a challenging task.
• Perseveres through difficulties to achieve her goals.
• Is resilient in the face of significant challenges and problems presented.
• Will always work through struggles and come out the other end more confident and skilled.

Constructive Comments

Present constructive comments to show the areas for improvement for the student. Carefully craft the comments so they’re not overly upsetting or impersonal.

Negative Attitude to Learning

• Occasionally needs special assistance to stay on task.
• Requires some coaxing to complete tasks.
• Is at times distracted or uninterested in learning.
• Is working on paying more attention to her tasks.
• Has some off days where she is uninterested in learning.
• Is easily distracted by friends.
• Will often come to class unwilling to contribute to group discussions.

Needs Improvement

• Needs to work on focus and concentration during class time.
• Has improved in some areas, but continues to slip behind in others.
• Is showing some lack of focus and is slipping behind in some subjects.
• There is still a lot of room for growth and we are working on improving her focus and drive in coming months.
• It would be great to see some improvement in her weakest subjects in the future.
• I would like to see her asking for help when stuck on tasks.

Disruptive Behavior

• Can occasionally disrupt her friends and classmates.
• Is at times a distraction to other students.
• Can be unsettled when entering the class after breaks.
• Can be talkative during quiet times and individual tasks.
• Could work on being more considerate to other classmates.
• Has had a difficult time getting comfortable in class this year.
• Has at times sought undue attention and distracted the flow of lessons.

Read Also: 13 Best Classroom Management Theories

Low Motivation

• Sometimes struggles to engage in class discussions.
• Requires a lot of external rewards to get focused.
• Works well below her capabilities due to lack of motivation to do her best.
• Relies heavily on extrinsic motivation. It would be great to see more intrinsic desire to succeed in coming months.
• Struggles to find things she is interested in.
• Has trouble getting engaged and interested in class topics.
• Will respond well to rewards but struggles to use initiative.
• Needs to dig deep and find greater motivation to learn in coming months.

Is Not Neat and Tidy

• Occasionally presents work that is messy and difficult to read.
• I would like to see her paying more attention to neatness in her writing.
• It would be great to see her showing more care for her workspace to ensure all her belongings are well cared for.
• At times comes to class disheveled and disorganized.
• Presents homework that is untidy and appears to have been rushed.
• Needs to work on ensuring her work is presentable, neat, and error-free.

Weak Communication Skills

• Speaks very softly. An area for improvement is speaking up in class discussions.
• Could work some more on communicating her opinions during discussions.
• Is often shy and intimidated when asked to speak up in class discussions.
• Needs coaxing to share her thoughts in class.
• Can work on being clearer when expressing her thoughts in writing.
• I look forward to seeing further development in expressing her thoughts in class.

Poor Listening Skills

• Has had some trouble paying attention to others during class discussions.
• Has some trouble listening to peers and teachers.
• Is easily distracted during class discussions.
• Is a good talker but needs to work on pausing and listening to others more attentively.
• Is often fidgety and distracted when spoken to.
• Is often resistant to make eye contact and be responsive when spoken to.
• Has trouble repeating and remembering instructions.

Read Also: 47 Best Classroom Rules for Middle and High School

Weak Organization and Time Management

• Tends to leave tasks to the last minute.
• Often submits incomplete drafts due to poor time management.
• Is often disorganized and forgets important school supplies.
• Has submitted homework late on several occasions.
• Could work on using her time more efficiently to complete tasks in allotted time periods.
• I would like to see her working on her organizational skills in coming months so she can use her class time more efficiently.

Bad at Homework

• Will often skip assigned homework tasks.
• Regularly forgets to bring homework to school.
• Her homework is often brought to class incomplete and rushed.
• Is often seen completing homework tasks the morning before they are due.
• I would like to see her working on setting aside more time for homework in the coming months.
• Is good at class work, but needs more initiative to complete her weekly homework in a timely manner.

Poor Attention to Detail

• Could be getting higher grades if she edited her work more carefully before submission.
• Will sometimes make mistakes due to distractedness and carelessness.
• Has started to let carelessness seep into his work for the past few months.
• Often does not pay enough attention to test questions, leading to small unforced errors.

Preschool and Kindergarten Comments

Here are some great comments specifically for children in the early years of their development.

Play Based Learning – Strong

• Plays well with other children.
• Shares resources with her peers during play time.
• Has begun to develop cooperative play skills such as sharing and taking turns.
• Is a creative and imaginative learner.
• Engages in strong exploratory and discovery play behaviors without prompting.
• Is enthusiastic and engaged when given developmentally appropriate resources to play with.
• Thrives in unstructured play environments where she can explore, learn and discover in her own time.
• Has started to use extended vocabulary well during play scenarios.
• Is great at taking measured risks during play which reveals great self-confidence for her age.

Play Based Learning – Needs Improvement

• Plays in parallel with other children, but needs to start developing cooperative play strategies in the coming months.
• Is good at solitary play, but needs more practice sharing and playing with other students.
• Is curious about playing with others, but often sits back due to shyness.
• Needs encouragement to use more language skills during play-based learning .
• Struggles to take turns when playing with others.

Strong Development

• Is developing in an age appropriate way and continues to show good progress.
• Has visibly developed fine and gross motor skills during class sessions.
• Is using language at an age appropriate level.
• Is starting to move out of her comfort zone to explore more and more new challenges.
• Is socially, cognitively and physically on track for transition to school.

Socialization

• Has shown remarkable strides in communication skills at preschool.
• Plays well with others.
• Is a thoughtful and kind student who plays well with others.
• Always shares and thinks about others during play scenarios.
• Is a popular student who finds it very easy to make friends with other children.
• Has been seen to show some great emerging leadership skills during play scenarios.
• Is very happy to play in groups and learn from peers .

Final Thoughts

I will often start with a comment bank like the one above. For each student, I’ll copy four or five of the most suitable statements.

But, I will also follow-up my generic comment from the comment bank with a specific example for the parents to read.

Parents do like to see that you have provided specific and thoughtful statements – so don’t forget to use the student’s name and specific anecdotes as much as possible.

I do hope this comment bank for report card comments has come in handy for you.

Remember to also maintain a positive but honest and constructive voice when writing.

If there is serious concern that might be difficult to express in writing, you should arrange for a parent-teacher conference to have a discussion and see how things progress.

Good luck with your report card writing!

About The Author: Hi, I’m Chris Drew (Ph.D) and I run things around here. I’m an Education expert and university professor.

Chris Drew (PhD)

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• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is IQ? (Intelligence Quotient)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University

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Report Card Comments & Phrases—End of Year

Opening / Closing Comments for End of the Year Reports

Positive Comments:

Thank you for your interest in ____________'s schoolwork this year. With [his/her] continued effort, [he/she] will receive much satisfaction from her work.

____________ is a positive member of the class and a hard worker. I have thoroughly enjoyed having [him/her] in my class this year. Have a wonderful summer.

Thank you for your support and interest in our class this year. ____________ is a very hardworking student and should have much success in the ____ grade.

____________ has been a joy to teach this year. Their dedication to learning has been admirable. Wishing them a fantastic summer and looking forward to seeing their progress in the next grade.

It's been a pleasure to see ____________'s growth over the year. With their ongoing commitment, they will achieve great things. Have a restful and enjoyable summer.

Your involvement in ____________'s education this year has been appreciated. Their improvement is commendable, and I am confident they will do well in the next grade. Enjoy the summer break!

Needs Improvement Comments:

Despite ____________'s efforts, there still seems to be a struggle in [specific area]. With continued practice over the summer, we hope to see improvement in the next grade.

____________ has demonstrated difficulty in [specific area]. Additional support and practice could be beneficial for their progress next year.

It has been a challenging year for ____________ in [specific area]. It would be helpful to spend some time over the summer focusing on this.

____________ has shown some understanding in [specific area], but there are still areas that need improvement. Continued practice over the summer can help improve this.

While ____________ has made some progress in [specific area], there is still room for improvement. A consistent effort will be crucial for their success in the next grade.

Improvement is needed in [specific area] for ____________. Utilizing resources and extra practice over the summer may help them prepare for the challenges of the next grade.

Looking for more report card comment examples?

Download or purchase over 90+ pages of grading comments examples, tips, and advice for managing student grades.

Academic Achievement and Improvement Comments for End of the Year Reports

____________ has shown exceptional growth in [his/her] academic skills and has consistently exceeded our expectations.

The improvement in ____________'s study habits has positively affected [his/her] performance. [His/Her] dedication to learning is commendable.

____________ has consistently shown a deep understanding of all the topics we covered this year. This has been reflected in [his/her] excellent grades.

____________'s academic achievement this year has been outstanding. [His/Her] hard work and dedication have paid off.

Over the course of the year, ____________ has shown a remarkable improvement in [his/her] academic performance.

____________ has demonstrated a strong capacity for critical thinking and problem-solving, which has greatly contributed to [his/her] academic success this year.

____________ has struggled with maintaining consistent academic performance over the year. Focused attention on [his/her] studies over the summer could be beneficial.

While ____________ has shown some progress in [specific area], [he/she] would benefit from additional practice and effort in this area.

____________ has faced challenges in [specific area]. Continued practice and focus on this area over the summer could prove beneficial.

____________'s academic progress has been inconsistent. [He/She] would greatly benefit from implementing more effective study habits.

While ____________ has the potential for great academic success, [he/she] often struggles to apply [himself/herself] consistently.

There is room for improvement in ____________'s academic performance. Regular practice and review of the material could help [him/her] improve in the next grade.

Classroom Behavior Comments for End of the Year Reports

____________ demonstrates excellent classroom behavior and positively influences classmates.

____________ has shown significant improvement in behavior and is maturing as a responsible student.

____________ consistently adheres to classroom rules and shows respect to peers and teachers.

____________ actively and respectfully participates in class discussions.

____________ brings a positive attitude and a smile to the classroom, making it a joy to teach them.

____________ displays a great capacity for self-discipline, managing their behavior maturely.

____________ struggles with following classroom rules and needs to focus on this over the summer.

____________'s behavior can occasionally disrupt the class. Continued effort to respect the learning environment is necessary.

____________ has difficulties in maintaining respectful behavior towards peers. Continued practice in treating others kindly is required.

____________'s behavior in class can sometimes distract others. A focus on self-control could be beneficial.

____________ struggles with listening skills during instruction. Focused attention during class could lead to improvement.

While ____________ shows potential, their behavior towards teachers and classmates needs improvement.

Work Habits Comments for End of the Year Reports

There has been a noticeable improvement in ____________'s work habits this year. Please continue to work on [his/her] skills over the summer.

____________ has shown consistent dedication to [his/her] work, demonstrating good organizational skills and focus.

____________ has made significant improvements in managing [his/her] time effectively and completing assignments on time.

____________ has demonstrated a high level of responsibility and commitment in [his/her] work habits throughout the year.

____________ has shown a consistent ability to work independently and take initiative in [his/her] learning.

____________ has improved in staying focused during class and on tasks, contributing positively to [his/her] overall academic performance.

____________ has struggled with completing assignments on time. A focus on time management skills over the summer could be beneficial.

____________'s work often lacks the neatness and organization necessary for success. Continued practice in these areas is recommended.

____________ has had difficulties staying focused during class and on tasks. Fostering better attention skills will be crucial for the next grade.

While ____________ has demonstrated some understanding of the material, [his/her] homework often shows a lack of thoroughness and attention to detail.

There is room for improvement in ____________'s work habits, particularly in terms of consistency and follow-through with assignments.

____________ often relies on peers for help with assignments instead of attempting to solve problems independently. Encouragement to work more independently could help [him/her] in the coming year.

Social Skills and Character Comments for End of the Year Reports

____________ demonstrates excellent social skills, often taking the initiative to help peers and work collaboratively on projects.

____________ shows a high level of respect and kindness towards classmates and teachers, contributing to a positive classroom environment.

____________'s ability to communicate effectively with peers and teachers is commendable and has greatly improved this year.

____________ has shown a remarkable ability to resolve conflicts constructively and maintain positive relationships with peers.

____________'s leadership skills have been a great asset to our classroom, helping to foster a cooperative learning environment.

____________ consistently displays empathy and understanding towards the feelings and perspectives of others, which is greatly appreciated.

____________ sometimes struggles with sharing and taking turns, which could be a focus for improvement over the summer.

____________ has had some difficulties working cooperatively in a group setting. Continued practice in this area would be beneficial.

It would be helpful if ____________ could work on their communication skills to express their thoughts and feelings more clearly.

While ____________ is generally respectful towards others, there have been instances of interrupting or talking over others.

____________ sometimes struggles with handling disagreements in a constructive manner. Fostering better conflict resolution skills could be beneficial.

There is room for improvement in ____________'s ability to listen to and respect the perspectives of others.

Attitude and Motivation Comments for End of the Year Reports

____________ has matured nicely this year. [His/her] progress during this last quarter was impressive. I hope this effort and attitude will carry over into the next school year.

____________ has shown great enthusiasm for learning this year, which has had a positive impact on [his/her] academic performance.

____________'s positive attitude towards school and [his/her] natural curiosity has been a joy to witness. [He/She] is always eager to learn new things.

____________ has demonstrated a strong motivation to succeed this year. [His/Her] effort and determination are commendable.

____________ consistently displays a positive attitude in class and is always willing to take on new challenges. This has contributed significantly to [his/her] success this year.

____________'s determination and perseverance have stood out this year. Even when faced with difficult tasks, [he/she] has remained focused and committed to achieving [his/her] goals.

____________ tends to give up easily when faced with challenges. Encouragement to persist and not be afraid of making mistakes could be beneficial for the next school year.

While ____________ shows interest in learning, [his/her] lack of focus often hinders [his/her] academic progress. [He/She] needs to work on maintaining motivation, especially when tasks become difficult.

____________ often seems disengaged in class and does not actively participate in learning activities. [He/She] could benefit from developing a more enthusiastic approach to learning.

____________'s negative attitude towards certain subjects is hindering [his/her] academic growth. [He/She] needs to work on maintaining a positive attitude even when tasks are challenging.

____________ sometimes lacks the motivation to complete assignments on time. Enhancing [his/her] self-motivation skills and commitment to tasks could improve [his/her] academic performance.

____________ often seems reluctant to accept new challenges. Fostering a more open-minded and determined attitude could be beneficial for their learning in the next grade.

Attendance Comments for End of the Year Reports

____________ has had excellent attendance this year, which has positively influenced [his/her] academic progress.

____________'s regular attendance has contributed to [his/her] consistent performance and understanding of the curriculum.

____________ is to be commended for [his/her] perfect attendance this year. This has allowed [him/her] to fully engage in all learning activities.

____________'s consistent attendance has allowed [him/her] to participate fully in class activities and discussions, enhancing [his/her] learning experience.

____________'s attendance has been exceptional this year, demonstrating [his/her] commitment to learning.

____________ has shown a strong commitment to [his/her] education through [his/her] regular attendance this year.

____________ has had several absences this year, which has impacted [his/her] ability to keep up with the class.

Regular attendance is important for academic success. ____________ has missed a number of classes which has affected [his/her] progress.

____________'s frequent absences have made it difficult for [him/her] to keep up with the material covered in class.

____________'s irregular attendance has hindered [his/her] academic progress this year. Regular attendance in the future will help [him/her] stay on track.

____________'s frequent tardiness has resulted in missed instruction time. It's important for [him/her] to arrive on time to make the most of [his/her] learning.

____________ has struggled with attendance this year, which has affected [his/her] ability to fully participate in class activities. Improvement in this area would be beneficial for [his/her] learning.

Future Goals Comments for End of the Year Reports

____________ has shown a keen interest in [specific subject]. Exploring this further could open up new opportunities for academic growth next year.

Moving forward, ____________ should aim to build upon the solid foundation developed this year in [specific subject].

____________ has expressed a desire to improve in [specific area]. Setting specific goals and strategies for this will be a focus next year.

As we move into the next grade, ____________ should focus on developing greater autonomy in [his/her] learning.

____________'s goal for the next school year could be to improve [his/her] skills in [specific area]. I believe [he/she] has the potential to excel with consistent effort.

I encourage ____________ to continue nurturing [his/her] passion for [specific subject]. This enthusiasm will serve [him/her] well in future learning.

In the next grade, ____________ should aim to take on more leadership roles within the classroom to help develop [his/her] leadership skills.

____________ has shown potential in [specific area]. A goal for the next school year could be to deepen [his/her] understanding of this subject.

____________ would benefit from setting a goal to improve [his/her] participation in class discussions next year.

As ____________ moves into the next grade, I encourage [him/her] to set a goal around improving [his/her] time management skills, which will support [his/her] academic success.

Other Useful Phrases for End of the Year Reports

_______ has matured nicely this year, both academically and socially.

_______'s friendly, sincere way has made him a very popular member of the ___ grade.

_______ would benefit from reading many library books this summer.

_______ needs to improve his reading speed and comprehension if he is to have success in the ______ grade.

_______ continued to blossom as the year progressed.

_______ helped to make my year a pleasant one.

_______ takes a keen interest in all her work and is a most agreeable and willing worker. It has been wonderful having her in my room.

Thank you for the help I know you have given her.

Please continue during the summer with ______ review and as many reading experiences as possible.

Thank you for your interest in _______'s attitude.

I'm sorry I didn't get to meet you this year.

Thanks for your cooperation.

With _______'s friendly, cooperative attitude, she will always be a pleasant addition to any class.

I have enjoyed the association I have had with _______.

I enjoyed having _______ in my class.

It has been a pleasure to have _______ in my class.

More Report Card Comments and Phrases.

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Report Card Comments for Teachers: Reading, Writing, & ELA

• __ is reading at a ___ grade level.
• __ has good reading comprehension and decoding skills.
• __ is reading well at this level.
• __ needs to learn basic sight words so she/he can decode words more quickly.
• __ struggles with reading comprehension.
• __ has difficulty understanding what he/she reads.
• I would like to see __ participate in more independent reading.
• __ needs to choose books that are at his/her own reading level.
• _ has read __ chapter books so far this year.
• I would like to see __ read for 15 minutes each night at home.
• __ needs to take his/her time and think about what he/she reads.
• __ is choosing books that are too difficult/simple for his/her level.
• It is refreshing to see that __ enjoys reading in his/her free time.
• __ needs to build his reading vocabulary.
• __ often has difficulty using reading strategies to decode new words.
• __ is a creative writer.
• __'s writing has a refreshing sense of voice, clarity, and style.
• __ has a strong command of the English language.
• __'s stories lack a clear beginning, middle, and end.
• I would like to see __ check his/her own writing more carefully before handing assignments in.
• __ often forgets capital letters and punctuation.
• __'s writing is clear, organized, and interesting to read.
• __ organizes his/her writing well, but needs to add more details to his/her works.
• __'s writing is creative, but often has many errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• __ enjoys writing in his/her free time. I always look forward to reading his/her stories.
• __ has difficulty getting his/her thoughts down on paper in a timely manner.
• __ puts a great deal of time and effort into his/her writing.
• __ did a wonderful job on his/her __ assignment.
• While __ is a creative writer, he/she needs to work on creating stories that are realistic.
• __ has difficulty focusing on the assignment at-hand during writers' workshop.
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15 Best Report Card Comments Samples

What makes a good report card comment, tips for writing effective report card comments, example report card comments, let’s grade, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Giving students constructive criticism is one of the most important tasks a teacher faces. It can be difficult to know how to best communicate with a student about their progress, especially when it comes to report card comments. This guide will help you write effective report card comments that are clear, concise, and accurate. So let’s get started!

There are a few key things to keep in mind when writing report card comments . Here is what makes a good report card comment:

1. Positive and solution-focused

It’s important to focus on the positive when writing report card comments. For every negative comment, there should be at least two positive comments. This report card comment strategy is a great way to make sure you’re including both positive and negative feedback in your comments.

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2. Clear and concise

Report card comments should be clear and concise. This means avoiding generalities and using specific, concrete examples. This will help the student (and their parents) understand what they need to work on.

3. Accurate

Report card comments should be accurate. This means making sure your comments align with the grades the student has earned. There’s no point in sugar-coating a bad grade – it will only confuse the student and their parents.

Now that we’ve gone over what makes a good report card comment, let’s look at some tips for writing effective report card comments.

1. Use specific, concrete examples

One of the most important things to do when writing report card comments is to use specific, concrete examples. This will help the student understand what they need to work on. For example, instead of saying, “______ needs to work on his behavior,” you could say, “_____ needs to work on staying seated during class.”

2. Avoid generalities

When writing comments on a report card, it’s important to avoid generalities. For example, instead of writing “Your child is a joy to have in class,” try something more specific, such as “Your child is always willing to help out other students.” This will give the student and their family a better idea of what they’re doing well and what areas they can continue to improve in.

3. Use positive language

It’s essential to use positive language when writing report card comments. This means avoiding negative words like “doesn’t,” “won’t,” and “can’t.” For example, instead of writing “_____ doesn’t pay attention in class,” try “_____ is working on paying attention in class.” This small change can make a big difference in how students and their families perceive their progress.

4. Employ sandwich technique

The sandwich technique is a great way to deliver both positive and negative feedback in a report card comment. This means starting with a positive comment, followed by constructive criticism, and ending with another positive comment. This gives the student a sense of their progress while still providing areas for improvement.

5. Proofread your comments

When writing report card comments, it’s important to be clear and accurate. However, it’s also important to make sure that your comments are free of typos and grammatical errors. After all, you don’t want to give a student or their family the wrong impression about their academic progress! Make sure to proofread your comments before sending them home.

Now that we’ve gone over some tips for writing effective report card comments let’s take a look at some examples.

We have divided our report card comments into four categories:

1. Academic Achievement

This is for students who have performed well academically. These comments assess a student’s progress and encourage future academic success.

1. ______ is an excellent student who always comes prepared for class. He is a joy to have in class and is always willing to help out other students.

2. _______ is a smart and inquisitive student who loves to learn. She is a pleasure to have in class and is always asking questions.

3. _______ is a hard-working student who is always trying his best. This year, he has made great progress, and I’m excited to see what he does next year.

4. _______ is a gifted student who excels in all her subjects. She has a bright future ahead of her, and I’m excited to see what she accomplishes.

5. _______ is a talented student who has a real passion for learning. He is always asking questions and is eager to get his hands on new material.

2. Partially Meeting Expectations

This is for students who are partially meeting expectations academically.

1. _______ is an intelligent student who has great potential. He needs to work on staying focused in class and following directions.

2. _______ is a hard-working student who is making progress. She need to work on ___________ and ___________.

3. _______ has moments of greatness, but he needs to be more consistent with his effort and focus.

4. _______ is a bright student, but she needs to learn to apply herself more consistently.

5. _______ is a hard worker, but he needs to improve his organizational skills.

3. Social/Emotional Development

This is for students who are developing well socially and emotionally .

1. _______ is a kind and caring student who always looks out for others. He is a good friend to all and is always willing to help.

2. _______ has made great strides in his/her social development this year. She is more confident and able to express herself well.

3. _______ works well with others and is able to take turns and share.

4. _______ is a leader among his/her peers and is often looked up to by other students.

5. _______  is an independent thinker who is not afraid to express his/her opinions.

4. General Development

This is for students who are developing well academically, socially, and emotionally.

1. _______ has made great strides in his/her development this year. He is more confident and independent and is doing well academically.

2. _______ is a happy and thriving student who loves school. She is making friends and doing well academically.

3. _______ is a well-rounded student who is doing well in all areas. He is a good friend, does his best in school, and loves to learn.

4. _______ is a joy to have in class. She is polite, hard-working, and always has a smile on her face.

5. _______ is a model student who always puts his best foot forward. He is a role model to others and sets a good example for all to follow.

Now that we have gone over some tips for writing effective report card comments and examples of what to write, it’s time to get started on those report cards! We hope this guide has been helpful and wish you the best of luck in the new school year.

What should I do if I’m having trouble coming up with something to write?

If you’re struggling to come up with something to write, try focusing on the positive. Instead of starting with what the student needs to work on, start with what the student is doing well. This will help you brainstorm some ideas of things to say. You can also ask other teachers or the student’s parents for input.

Can I use report card comments from other sources?

While you can use comments from other sources as inspiration, you must take the time to personalize each comment. This way, the student and their family will know that you took the time to write something specifically for them.

What if I need to give a student negative feedback?

If you need to give a student negative feedback, it’s essential to be clear, concise, and constructive. For example, instead of writing “________ is lazy and doesn’t do his work,” try “________ needs to work on being more diligent with his schoolwork.” It’s also important to balance any negative comments with positive ones. This way, the student and their family will know that you still see potential and are invested in their success.

Do I need to write a comment for every subject?

While you don’t need to write a comment for every subject, it’s generally a good idea to do so. This way, the student and their family will have a complete picture of their progress. If you’re short on time, try focusing on the subjects that the student is struggling in or that you feel are most important.

What is the best way to end a report card comment?

The best way to end a report card comment is with a statement of hope or encouragement. For example, you could write, “I’m looking forward to seeing ________ progress in the second half of the year” or “I know that ________ can reach his/her goals if he/she continues to work hard.”

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50 Effective Report Card Comments for Teachers: Enhance Student Feedback

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Report card comments:

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In this blog, you will find the top 50 report card comments that you can use as remarks.

Being a teacher, you should write motivational report card comments. As a teacher, you have to take a lot of things into account. It can be difficult and demanding to write report card remarks for struggling pupils in your classroom.

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Your criticism must be sincere and cannot in any way dampen the spirits of the kids or their parents. Remember that there is always room for improvement and progress. 

In this blog, we will look at several report card comments for teachers that you may utilize as remarks so that they reflect your points and, at the same time, reinforce your beliefs and confidence.

So without any further ado, let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Report card comments for teachers pointing out the need for improvement 

Report card comments for teachers pointing out students who need help , report card comments for teachers based on student behavior , general report card comments for teachers, report card comments for teachers based on student success .

• ‘Name’ has made great academic progress . Continue the excellent work.
• ‘Name’ has established a name for itself, been consistent, and gone above and beyond expectations. It has been enjoyable to teach him or her.
• I’m amazed by the development and improvement. Well done.
• You must acknowledge his or her excellent effort and desire to improve every day. I had a great time teaching him or her.
• It was an utter delight to teach him or her. He or she is eager, determined, and focused.
• I lack the fingers necessary to count his or her triumphs. passionate, supportive, and incredibly creative.
• I’m pleased to see that ‘name’ has high expectations for themselves and meets them.
• Excellent grades. I’m pleased for him/her to succeed.
• ‘Name’ is incredibly talented, innovative, and helpful. A top-notch pupil!
• ‘Name’ has demonstrated a substantial improvement in both grades and abilities. Sincerely admirable
• I am extremely happy for “name” and wish him or her the best in class and beyond.
• ‘Name’ is intelligent, driven, and diligent, and he or she should be proud of what they have accomplished this year.
• Definitely a gifted and fortunate child.
• The ideal student that any educator would adore having in their class,

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• There is growth potential. You are capable of more.
• We need to concentrate more. I’d say the person is only employing half of their talent, which has the potential to expand.
• You have great things in store. If you put in a little more work, you’ll get there.
• When he or she is having trouble comprehending the ideas or the task at hand, I want to see them ask for assistance.
• It has been noted that he or she frequently has trouble recalling lessons from class, so it would be fantastic if you gave them some extra practice at home.
• I want to see ‘name’ put in consistent effort in his or her task.
• You can do amazing things if you pay closer attention and focus.
• ‘Name’ is not performing to his or her maximum potential. A gentle nudge is required.
• ‘Name’ should take an active role in their education.
• ‘Name’ is having trouble reading. He or she does not appear to be enjoying it or have a desire to do it. If you read books with them at home, he or she will develop a love of reading.
• ‘Name’ regularly submits work that is unfinished or presents no work at all. Encourage him or her to finish his/her schoolwork; it will be very beneficial.
• I would like to see him/her seek assistance when he/she is having trouble comprehending the ideas or the task at hand.
• *Name* resolved about doing things on their own. However, it would be helpful if he or she had some additional assistance at home.
• Never be embarrassed to ask for help when you need it.
• A pupil with such talent is expected to put in a little extra effort.
• Read the principles more thoroughly at home.
• ‘Name’ finds it difficult to memorize spellings. It would be helpful if you could make him or her memorize the spelling.
• As he or she finds it difficult to concentrate and interact with his or her classmates, he or she is not yet able to work in small groups.
• Extra effort is required.
• ‘Name’ is a good child who requires support with confidence and teamwork.
• Excellent work, keep seeking help.
•  ‘Name’ would benefit from taking their time and properly reading the provided questions.
• ‘Name’ needs help with formulas and mathematical problems. Please sit with him or her and help them memorize them 
• Studying well, but classroom participation needs to be increased. Teamwork is necessary.
• Calm and collected while also being dynamic. a superb learner.
• ‘Name’  needs to strengthen their ability to concentrate and pay attention in class.
• Excellent progress. ‘Name’ is developing superior listening skills.
• ‘Name’ produces neat work when they take their time and meticulously complete their coursework.
• ‘Name’ can increase mental focus.
• ‘Name’ is an amazing learner.
• ‘Name’ is considerate and supportive of others.
• Excellent classroom behavior.
• Continue your wonderful work. You can engage in more class interaction.
• ‘Name’ is always kind to others and very sympathetic.
• ‘Name’ has trouble adhering to classroom rules and needs to concentrate on working quietly and remaining seated.
• I wouldn’t want him or her to change anything. amazing child
• Keep working and try not to let the poor grades depress you.
• He or she not only gets along well with classmates but is also a natural leader.
• Keep rocking, kid.
• Overall, this year, he or she is performing exceptionally well.

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325 amazing report card comments and remarks to save your time!

What's more difficult than creating your student report cards? Writing unique and meaningful report card comments. Creating report card comments and remarks can be a daunting and tedious task for teachers.

Every teacher will agree that writing unique report card comments is important as it helps the parents to understand their child's progress, they can take necessary action by understanding the report card comments.

We have made your task easier by providing a list of report card comments for every feedback category and applicable to all grades. Just copy and paste the comment, insert the student's name and you are good to go! You can edit and modify the comments as you like.

• Save your time.
• Help parents understand the feedback in a better way.

Achievement and Improvement - General Comments:

• If _____ continues to put out the effort he has demonstrated in the last two reporting periods, he will benefit greatly from his education.
• The following ideas might help him enhance his _____.
• I'm hoping that the current level of enthusiasm and progress will continue.
• In all academic disciplines, _____ is improving. She's having a hard time with____.
• She has a long way to go, but if she works hard enough, she will see results soon.
• _____ takes tremendous pride in his work and always completes it neatly.
• _____ is a frequent volunteer who makes significant contributions to the class. She has a tendency to work too rapidly, which leads to a lot of unintentional mistakes. At home and at school, we can assist her in correcting this.
• For his age, _____ is a hard worker with outstanding vocabulary skills. He likes to read and write.
• The quality of _____'s work reflects her positive attitude. Thank you for all of your hard work.
• Despite his best efforts, _____ finds it difficult to keep up with the rest of the class. Can we meet to discuss this?
• As we mentioned at our latest meeting, ______'s work is not up to par. I am confident that with more effort and concentration, he will quickly improve.
• _____ is genuinely interested in everything we do in class. She, on the other hand, is experiencing some difficulties with . Please go through this with her every night.

Achievement and Improvement - Academic Achievement:

• In ______, _____ is quite strong.
• _____ has received an excellent grade on his report card.
• ______ is something that _____ knows a lot about.
• _____ is a bright and hardworking student who excels in_____
• In all of the fundamental subjects, _____ is performing admirably.
• In ______, _____ is working over grade level.
• _____ is particularly skilled at______.
• Because of her low achievement level, _____ finds it challenging to keep up with the rest of the class.
• In the domains of ____, _____ is capable of reaching a higher average.
• We will concentrate on _____ in the coming term because _____ has had problems learning .
• _____ is capable of doing a much better job.
• Both you and I must continue to guide and assist _____.
• To get her up to _____ grade level, _____ has been really cooperative and only needs to improve her social studies skills.
• _____ has been getting poor grades on quizzes and tests.
• _____ does not work to her full potential.
• The material is tough for _____ to comprehend.

Achievement and Improvement - Improvement:

• The independence of _____ is increasing.
• _____ has steadily improved.
• _____ has been steadily improving.
• In ______, _____ has demonstrated a positive attitude toward wanting to improve.
• _____ appears to be eager to learn more. In _______, _____ has experienced rapid expansion.
• Academically, _____ is making steady progress.
• The quality of _____'s work is improving.
• _____ has improved her _____ abilities.
• _____ has demonstrated a positive desire to improve herself in _____.
• If he were more interested in _______, his performance would increase.
• This reporting period, _____ has made significant progress.
• I'm pleased to see that _____ is maturing well, and I hope that this trend continues.
• The classroom attitude of _____ has improved.

Work habits - General Report Card Comments:

• As I have stated in my reports, _______ does not manage his time effectively in class. Please explain to him that we study in class and play only at particular times during the school day.
• When ______ is able to relax, she produces considerably better results. She does, however, frequently seek the attention of her peers, which causes everyone to be distracted.
• _________ must continue to improve his work habits, as we mentioned in earlier meetings. We need to encourage him to take his work much more seriously.
• ______ enjoys participating in artistic pursuits. However, I am concerned about how much time she spends painting when she has other responsibilities. Could we possibly meet to explore methods for assisting ________ in resolving this problem?
• _______ is now working on grade-level material. I am confident, though, that he is capable of producing superior work. I'm confident that his work will improve as his attention improves.
• ______ wastes a lot of his work time daydreaming and then fails to finish on time. He is capable of doing the work in the time provided, and he needs to get started.
• _______ has done some good work, but it hasn't been consistent. She is a very gregarious and restless person who frequently does not complete her assignment on time. Thank you so much for your assistance at home. Please keep working with her on this matter.
• _______ is very eager to do her work, yet she can be a nuisance to the other pupils. Despite the fact that she has made improvement in this area over the last month, she still has work to do.
• ______ is having trouble because he frequently speaks out loud, disrupting the other pupils. He's working on changing this unhealthy behaviour, and he's made some progress in the last several weeks.
• _________ needs to continue to improve his work habits, as we mentioned in earlier meetings. We must motivate him to take his task more seriously.
• _______ has done some excellent work, but it hasn't been consistent. She is a social butterfly who is often agitated and frequently fails to complete her tasks on time. I appreciate your assistance at home. Continue to collaborate with her on this matter.
• _______ is very eager to do her work, yet she can be a nuisance to the other pupils. She has made progress in this area over the last month, but she still has work to do.

Work habits - listening skills:

• _____ is improving her ability to pay attention to directions.
• _____ is working on improving her listening skills.
• ______  is learning to listen and share.
• _____ pays close attention to what is being said.
• _____ is a hard worker who listens carefully.
• _____ assesses what she hears.
• All instructions must be followed by _____.
• Directions are tough for _____ to follow.

Work habits - Quality of work:

• The handiwork of _____ is superb.
• _____ appreciates doing nice, meticulous work.
• The work of _____ is tidy and precise.
• _____ creates vibrant and intriguing artwork.
• Work well done is something that _____ is proud of.
• _____ is prone to making careless mistakes.
• _____ is untidy.
• Proofreading is something that _____ must do.

Work habits - Time management:

• _____ is learning to use his free time wisely.
• _____ is always efficient with her time.
• _____ never finishes assignments in the time provided.
• During work hours, _____ is getting more dependable.
• _____ is on the verge of being self-sufficient.
• _____ is growing more self-sufficient.
• On assignments, _____ works autonomously.
• _____ is unable to do individual assignments.
• _____ is a good listener, but she needs to work faster.
• _____ needs to be pushed.
• _____ lacks self-sufficiency.
• _____ is prone to being easily distracted.
• _____ operates at a slow pace.
• _____ does not finish assignments in the time allotted.
• _____ appears unable to complete the required work.
• _____ frequently completes work ahead of schedule.
• _____ is indifferent about the value of time.
• In his written work, _____ sacrifices accuracy for the sake of speed.

Work habits - Work potential and effort report card comments:

• _____ has a lot of potential and is working hard to realise it.
• _____ is performing to the best of his or her ability.
• _____ is a dependable and conscientious worker.
• _____ is enthusiastic about his or her job in general.
• _____ is looking for information.
• _____ is a dedicated student.
• _____ is very conscientious.
• _____ is a pleasant and responsible student.
• _____ is a dedicated worker.
• During the ___ period, _____ is a hard worker.
• _____ is a respectful and conscientious student.
• If _____ is to gain the fundamentals required for ____ grade work, he must improve his work habits.
• _____'s efforts are inconsistent, particularly in ____.
• When not directly supervised, _____ makes little effort. _____ is eager to please.

Personality and Attitude - General report card comments:

• Although ______'s attitude toward his schoolwork has improved, it has not been consistent. Throughout the rest of the school year, he will require consistent guidance from both home and school.
• This report card reflects _______'s attitude toward school. He could do better if he worked harder and cooperated more.
• This reporting quarter reflects ______'s attitude toward our school rules, other students, and myself. She has the potential to be a successful student if she works hard enough.
• As my previous reports have shown, _____ does not complete his schoolwork. He can do better if he makes the decision to work harder and finish his assignments.
• Although _____'s attitude toward her classmates has improved, she still needs to be reminded to be respectful on a regular basis.
• As we discussed in our last meeting, _______ has a negative attitude toward basic skills. Please continue to do a nightly review with her, focusing especially on .
• Thank you for your enthusiasm for our class. I am pleased to report that ______ is improving in terms of his attitude in our classroom.
• ______ has made great strides this year in terms of her attitude in the classroom and on the playground.
• If ______ is to overcome her attitude and social difficulties, I will continue to need your assistance and support. If she can make a positive effort in this area, she will find school much more enjoyable.
• ________'s attitude has improved over time. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

Personality and Attitude - Attitude:

• _____ has a fantastic attitude.
• _____ has a great attitude toward school.
• _____ maintains a positive attitude toward school.
• _____ takes responsibility well and has a pleasant demeanour.
• _____ takes the initiative and thinks things through on his own.
• _____ is changing his attitude toward __ grade.
• _____ must improve his or her classroom demeanour.

Personality and attitude - Personality:

• _____ is a nice student to work with.
• _____ is an exceptionally thoughtful student.
• _____ has a pleasant demeanour.
• _____ is a pleasant and friendly person.
• _____ is cooperative and content.
• _____ is courteous and cooperative.
• _____ has a friendly attitude.
• _____ is a joy to be around.
• _____ is a pleasant and helpful person.
• _____ is a pleasant and cooperative youngster.
• _____ is a cheerful, well-adjusted child, but_____.
• _____ is self-assured and well-mannered.
• We all enjoy _____'s sense of humour.
• _____ is amusing and enjoys the stories we read.
• _____ is easily disturbed.
• _____ is prone to crying.
• _____ appears tired a lot at school.
• Although ____________'s social maturity is increasing, it is inconsistent.

Personality and Attitude - Participation:

• _____ is excited about taking part.
• _____ contributes significantly in class.
• _____ is a frequent volunteer.
• _____ is eager to participate in all classroom activities.
• _____ is enthusiastic about what we do.
• _____ contributes significantly.
• _____ participates actively in discussions about ____
• _____ responds nicely.
• _____ addresses the group with confidence.
• _____ takes turns speaking.
• Participating in conversations and discussions is something that _____ enjoys doing.
• In class, _____ should take an active role in the discussion.

End of Year - General Report Card Comments:

• This year has seen a significant improvement in ______'s study habits. Please keep working on these abilities over the summer.
• Thank you for your interest in this year's schoolwork of _____ . Her work will provide her with a great deal of satisfaction if she continues to put forth the effort.
• ______ is a good citizen who works hard. I've had a great time having him in my class this year. Have a fantastic summer!
• This year, ______ has matured nicely. His progress over the last three months has been impressive. I'm hoping that this effort and attitude will continue into the next school year.
• Thank you for your interest in our class this year and for your support. ______ is a diligent student who should do well in the ____ grade.

End of Year - Phrases:

• This year, both academically and socially, ______ has matured nicely.
• ______'s friendly, genuine demeanour has made him a popular member of the __ grade.
• This summer, ______ would benefit from reading a lot of library books.
• If ______ is to succeed in the _____ grade, he must improve his reading speed and comprehension.
• As the year progressed, ______ continued to bloom.
• ______ made my year more enjoyable.
• ______ is a very pleasant and willing worker who takes a keen interest in all of her work. It's been great having her in my room.
• Thank you for the assistance I'm sure you've provided her.
• Please continue with _____ review and as many reading experiences as possible over the summer.
• Thank you for your interest in ______'s personality.
• I'm sorry I couldn't meet you this year.
• Thank you for your help.
• With her friendly, cooperative demeanour, ______ will always be a welcome addition to any class.
• I've had a good time being associated with ______.
• I had a great time having ______ in my class.
• It was a pleasure having ______ in my class.

Language Arts and Reading - Report Card Remarks:

• ______'s reading has improved significantly over the course of the year. Please continue to read with her every night.
• ______ is an excellent public speaker. Her written work, on the other hand, could be much better. With more effort, progress should be made gradually.
• ______ has made significant progress in her creative writing. She's gotten better at using more colourful words.
• ______ is making great strides in her reading of sight words. Please keep practising with him every night.
• Since the beginning of the school year, ______'s spelling scores have significantly improved. The fact that he studies his spelling words every night has made a significant difference. Thank you for your assistance.
• ______ is having trouble writing clear, fluent sentences, despite her best efforts. Is it possible for us to meet to discuss some useful strategies?

Language Arts and Reading - Listening:

• ______ pays close attention to stories.
• ______ can tell the difference between sounds in words.
• ______ has trouble differentiating between sounds in words.

Language Arts and Reading - Reading and Vocabulary report card comments:

• ______ picks up new words rapidly.
• ______ needs to improve his reading speed and comprehension.
• _______ has a well-developed reading vocabulary.
• ______ is a voracious reader.
• ______ is now aware of and proficient in the use of ____ consonant and vowel sounds.
• The sounds ____ and ____ are mixed up by _____ .
• ______ may blend short words without help by utilising the vowel(s) .
• ______ is working on attacking words on his own.
• The reading of ______ is.. (smooth, jerky, hesitant, rapid, irregular, or fluent).
• ______ understands what she is reading.
• ______ enjoys reading and is passionate about literature.
• ______ is able to read and follow instructions.
• _____ sight words are now recognised by ____ .
• ______ enjoys reading.
• To retain reading vocabulary, ______ requires a lot of repetition and practise.
• ______ continues to mix up words that appear to be the same.
• ______ is starting to read phrases and groupings of words.
• The reading of ______ is getting habitual.
• The reading of ______ is still not automatic.
• ______ enjoys talking about the stories we've been reading.
• ______ can read his sentences back

Language Arts and Reading- Speaking:

• ______ uses entire sentences when speaking.
• ______ expresses himself clearly.
• (Pronouns, verbs) are difficult for ______ to correctly use.
• Dramatization is something that ______ appreciates.
• ______ possesses a strong oral vocabulary.
• ______ employs proper punctuation.
• When speaking, ______ utilises a lot of colourful words.
• When speaking, ______ utilises (complicated, basic) sentences.
• ______ takes part in a group storytelling session.

Language Arts and Reading - Writing:

• ______ must use his or her abilities in all written work.
• ______ is a fantastic writer of creative stories and poetry.
• ______ can accurately arrange periods and question marks.
• In his writing, ______ employs a variety of colourful words.
• In her work, ______ employs (complicated, simple) sentences.
• ______ can now compose a complete sentence on his own.
• ______ can compose a two- to four-sentence original tale.
• ______ arranges words in the correct sequence.
• In writing, ______ demonstrates self-assurance.
• ______ can put together a number of similar sentences.
• ______ is working on expanding his spelling vocabulary.
• To look up unusual words, ______ consults a dictionary.
• ______ enjoys learning new words to spell.
• ______ has an easy time learning to spell words.
• ______ has a tendency of reversing letters in words.
• ______ has trouble memorising non-phonetic word spellings.
• To recall spelling, ______ makes use of hand or body motions.

General and Handwriting - General Report Card Remarks:

• ______'s basic skills are all on grade level, but he is not working to his full potential.
• Over the last quarter, ______'s schoolwork has improved. I sincerely hope that this work will continue.
• ______'s actions are still inconsistent. She continues to struggle with obeying school rules and treating other pupils with respect. Please call to schedule a meeting. Thank you for your unwavering support and assistance from home. It's clear that you've been spending extra time with ______ on his schooling.
• Since our last meeting, ______ has improved. I recommend that you keep working on ______ every night.
• ______ is a well-mannered and vigilant ____ grader. He needs to be encouraged to engage in class because he is a quiet boy. Any assistance you can provide from your own home would be really valuable.
• ______ has made a good transition to her new school. Could you please contact me as soon as you have moved into your new home to arrange a meeting?
• ______ is becoming more self-assured.
• ______ is adhering to grade-level standards.
• ______ does a fantastic job in everything he does.
• ______ is a hard worker who excels in all areas.
• ______ is a person who thinks clearly.
• ______'s thoughts are well-organized.
• It is important to encourage ______ to .
• ______ requires a lot of encouragement.
• ______ is a creative person.
• ______ is a frequent latecomer.
• ______ takes a lot of time off.
• ______ has not completed her makeup work.
• ______ is a bright student who appears to ponder deeply.
• ______ is quick to pick up on new concepts.
• ______ is a person who talks a much.
• ______ should devote more time to his or her allotted job.
• ______ does not devote enough time to his or her homework.
• ______ has to work on his or her self-control.
• A meeting has been requested.
• Please call to schedule a meeting.
• Your unwavering cooperation and assistance are greatly appreciated.
• It is conceivable for ______ to achieve higher grades than expected.

General and Handwriting - Handwriting:

• The handwriting of ______ needs to be improved.
• ______'s motor skills are good/ bad/ fine.
• ______ can print along the lines.
• ______ appropriately spaces letters and words.
• The work of ______ is untidy.
• ______ does not properly form letters.
• Although some of ______'s printing is excellent, it is frequently clumsy in daily assignments.

Category wise:

• Demonstrates perseverance in distance learning and serves as a role model for other students.
• TEAMS is used to submit class assignments and communicate with teachers and classmates.
• Has done an excellent job of navigating new technology and troubleshooting technical issues.
• Completes asynchronous and autonomous work and always meets deadlines.
• When it comes to completing learning assignments, she goes above and beyond in terms of detail and quality.
• With online learning, ____ has successfully maintained his/her class demeanour and work habits.
• _____ is methodical in his approach, thinks things through for himself, and is a quick and eager student.
• _____ is fascinated by the nature of learning and always puts in his or her best effort to find the greatest available solutions.
• _____ is a focused and enthusiastic participant in the online learning session, and works with zeal and determination.
• _____ is able to reach his or her full potential, as evidenced by his or her contributions to conversations and work submitted.
• Maintains focus in online learning despite technological challenges and changes associated with remote learning.
• ___ enthusiastically engages in class discussions and works effectively with peers.
• ___ takes charge of his or her own education and always asks for support when needed.
• Always arrives on time for class and is a dedicated student.
• ___ was usually well-prepared, well-organized, and enthusiastic about making the most of online classes.
• ___ is a dedicated student who participates actively in class. His/her suggestions are useful and entertaining.
• ___ takes an active interest in his or her own learning, pays close attention, and makes a concerted effort to avoid distractions that could disrupt the learning process.
• ___ is a person who takes responsibility and accountability seriously. He or she makes sound decisions and is open to new ideas.
• ___ gets along well with his peers and values varied viewpoints and experiences.
• ___ is constantly looking for ways to assist in the classroom.
• ___ is dependable and trustworthy, follows instructions well, and keeps his or her promises to himself and others.
• In written and verbal communication, ___ is thoughtful, insightful, and comprehensive, and has a talent for clearly conveying his or her ideas.
• When solving problems with students, ___ displays maturity and exhibits good communication skills when sharing thoughts and ideas about a certain topic/concept.
• ___ excels at transferring classroom knowledge to real-world and real-life circumstances.
• It's been a delight having ____'s energy, optimism, and maturity in my class.
• ____ is a classmate who is eager about learning and willing to try new things.
• During class, ____ is focused and willing to provide ideas.
• With confidence and determination, ____ completes solo work.
• ____ is a self-starter who takes pride in her job.
• In class, ____ is attentive and eager to engage in discussions.
• ____ is a very conscientious worker who puts in a lot of effort and attention on a daily basis.
• In his or her daily labour, ____ makes a willing and conscientious effort.
• ____ makes a conscious effort to study new things and improve his or her knowledge.
• This term, ____ has done an outstanding job confronting and overcoming significant obstacles. Throughout the summer, please continue to foster and support this behaviour.
• When given instructions, ____ takes responsibility and follows them.
• ____ has trouble keeping on task and finishing his or her assignment.
• He or she must pay close attention to directions in order to learn to operate autonomously.
• Reminders about the regular classroom schedule are required. It would be beneficial to talk about the classroom routine at home.
• Turns in incomplete work or no homework on a regular basis. Encouraging ____ to complete his or her work on time and according to the timetable and timeline set, so enhancing his or her organisational skills.
• Does not actively participate in group activities; therefore, is encouraged to put forth effort in order to improve communication skills as well as attention and confidence.
• ___ was an active participant in online learning sessions, but she needed to be reminded from time to time to allow other students to share their work and ideas as well.
• ___ participates enthusiastically in online group activities, but finds it difficult to work independently.

Below Average:

• During class, ___'s engagement and behaviour are inconsistent and disengaged.
• ___ is having trouble grasping concepts. It would be useful to pay more attention to the required tasks and to attend the online classes on a regular basis.
• When it comes to schoolwork, ___ needs a lot of help from adults. She has trouble grasping simple concepts and is unable to work on her own.
• In the online learning environment, ___ struggled to engage and participate in discussions and activities.
• ___ has not worked hard enough to satisfy the grade level objectives. It would be great to have regular work habits, active engagement, and the ability to clarify doubts.
• ___ needs to pay greater attention to guidance throughout lessons in order to apply concepts learned and complete given assignments.
• ___ would benefit from demonstrating a stronger desire to participate in class discussions.
• ___ needs to be reminded to pay attention during instructions and lessons on a regular basis.
• ___ has trouble focusing in class, which hinders his or her ability to participate fully in class activities and tasks.
• ___ is encouraged to make good use of his or her time in order to finish things on schedule.
• ___ is encouraged to take greater responsibility for completing chores without the need for frequent reminders.
• ___ must demonstrate that he or she is engaged in the learning process through the quality of his or her work and the efficient use of class time.

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Teaching Resources

Commenting on Student Writing

Resource overview.

Instructors who require their students to write papers dedicate many hours each semester to reading, commenting on, and grading student writing, and they often wonder if the time they have spent translates into improvements in their students’ writing skills. For their part, students want constructive feedback on their writing and often express frustration when they find their instructors’ comments on their papers to be mysterious, confusing, or simply too brief.

Tips to improve and help you respond to your students’ writing:

These tips focus on the process of writing comments on students’ papers (whether on rough drafts or final drafts), rather than on the process of grading papers. Grading and commenting on papers are certainly interconnected processes. However, while instructors often think of writing comments on papers as simply a means to justify grades, that purpose should be secondary to helping your students improve their writing skills.

These tips are organized into four categories:

Course Planning

Writing comments in the margins, writing final comments, what else can you do.

Before the course begins, think about what kind of writing you will assign, and how you will respond to that writing.

• Design each writing assignment so that it has a clear purpose connected to the learning objectives for the course. Craft each assignment as an opportunity for students to practice and master writing skills that are central to their success in the course and to academic achievement in your discipline. For example, if you want them to learn how to summarize and respond to primary literature or to present and support an argument, design assignments that explicitly require the skills that are necessary to accomplish these objectives.
• Sequence your writing assignments to help students acquire skills incrementally, beginning with shorter, simpler writing assignments to longer, more complex papers. You might also find it helpful to develop a sequence for writing comments. In other words, decide ahead of time which aspects of the writing you will focus on with each assignment. For example, you may decide to focus your comments on the first assignment on the writing of the thesis statement, then focus comments on later papers on the success with which the students deal with counter-arguments. Sequencing your comments can help make the commenting process more efficient. However, it is essential to communicate to students before they turn in their papers which aspects of the writing you are going to focus on in your feedback at which points in the semester (and why).
• Develop and communicate clear grading criteria for each writing assignment. These criteria will help you be as consistent and fair as possible when evaluating a group of student papers. Developing and using criteria is especially important when co-teaching a course or when asking TAs to grade papers for the course. Distribute the grading criteria to students (or post the criteria on the course Web site) so that they will know how you will evaluate their work. While there are shared criteria for “good writing” that apply across academic disciplines, each discipline also has certain standards and conventions that shape writing in the discipline. Do not expect that students will come into your class knowing how to write the kind of paper you will ask them to write. For example, a student who has learned how to write an excellent analytical paper in a literature course may not know how to write the kind of paper that is typically required for a history course. Give students a written list of discipline-specific standards and conventions, and explain these in class. Provide examples of the kind of writing they will need to produce in your course.
• Develop a process for writing comments that will give students a clear idea of whether they have or have not achieved the course’s learning objectives (and with what degree of success). Students should be able to see a clear correlation among 1) written comments on a paper, 2) the grading criteria for the assignment, and 3) the learning objectives for the course. Thus, before you start reading and commenting on a stack of papers, remind yourself of the grading criteria, the learning objectives, and which aspects of the writing you want to focus on in your response.
• The first time you read through a paper, try to hold off on writing comments. Instead, take the time to read the paper in its entirety. If you need to take some notes, do so on another piece of paper. This strategy will prevent you from making over-hasty judgments, such as faulting a student for omitting evidence that actually appears later in the paper. (In such cases, it may be appropriate to tell the student that you expected that evidence to be presented earlier–and the reason why). While you may expect this strategy to take more time, it can actually save you time by allowing you to focus your feedback on the most important strengths and weaknesses you want to bring to the writers’ attention (see “Writing Final Comments,” below).
• Respond as a reader, not as a writer. Do not tell students how YOU would write the paper. Instead, tell them how you are responding to each part of the paper as you read it, pointing out gaps in logic or support and noting confusing language where it occurs. For example, if a sentence jumps abruptly to a new topic, do not rewrite the sentence to provide a clear transition or tell the student how to rewrite it. Instead, simply write a note in the margin to indicate the problem, then prompt the student to come up with a solution. This strategy is especially important to follow when a student asks you to respond to a draft before the final paper is due; in this case, your aim should be to help the student identify weaknesses that he or she should improve and NOT to do the student’s thinking and writing for them. Of course, in some instances, it is necessary and appropriate to give the student explicit directions, such as when she or he seems to have missed something important about the assignment, misread a source, left out an essential piece of evidence, or failed to cite a source correctly.
• Ask questions to help students revise and improve. One way to ensure that your comments are not overly directive is to write questions in the margins, rather than instructions. For the most part, these questions should be “open” rather than “closed” (having only one correct answer.) Open questions can be a very effective way to prompt students to think more deeply about the topic, to provide needed evidence, or to clarify language. For ideas on how to phrase open questions, see Asking Questions to Improve Learning.
• Resist the temptation to edit. Instead, mark a few examples of repeated errors and direct students to attend to those errors. Simply put, if you correct your students’ writing at the sentence level, they will not learn how to do so themselves, and you will continue to see the same errors in paper after paper. Moreover, when you mark all mechanical errors, you may overwhelm your students with so many marks that they will have trouble determining what to focus on when writing the next draft or paper.
• Be specific. Comments in the margin such as “vague,” “confusing,” and “good” do not help students improve their writing. In fact, many students find these comments “vague” and “confusing”–and sometimes abrupt or harsh. Taking a little more time to write longer, and perhaps fewer, comments in the margin will help you identify for students exactly what they have done well or poorly. Information about both is crucial for helping them improve their writing.

Here are some examples of specific comments:

Rather than  “vague”

• “Which research finding are you referring to here?”
• “I don’t understand your use of the underlined phrase. Can you rewrite this sentence?”
• “Can you provide specific details to show what you mean here?”

Instead of “ confusing ,” “ what? ” or “ ??? ”

• “I lost the thread of your argument. Why is this information important? How is it related to your argument?”
• “You imply that this point supports your argument, but it actually contradicts your point in paragraph 3.”

Rather than “ good ”

• “This excellent example moves your argument forward.”
• “Wonderful transition that helped clarify the connection between the two studies you are summarizing.”
• “An apt metaphor that helped me understand your argument about this historical metaphor.”
• Begin by making positive comments; when pointing out weaknesses, use a descriptive tone, rather than one that conveys disappointment or frustration. Give an honest assessment, but do not overwhelm the writer with an overly harsh or negative reaction. For example, do not assume or suggest that if a paper is not well written, the writer did not devote a lot of time to the assignment. The writer may have in fact struggled through several drafts. Keep in mind that confusing language or a lack of organized paragraphs may be evidence not of a lack of effort, but rather of confused thinking. The writer may therefore benefit from a few, targeted questions or comments that help them clarify their thinking.
• Limit your comments; do not try to cover everything. Focus on the 3-4 most important aspects of the paper. Provide a brief summary of 1) what you understood from the paper and 2) any difficulties you encountered. Make sure that whatever you write addresses the grading criteria for the assignment, but also try to tailor your comments to the specific strengths and weaknesses shown by the individual student. While you may think that writing lots of comments will convey your interest in helping the student improve, students–like all writers–can be overwhelmed by copious written comments on their work. They may therefore have trouble absorbing all the comments you have written, let alone trying to use those comments to improve their writing on the next draft or paper.
• Distinguish “higher-order” from “lower-order” issues. Typically, “higher-order” concerns include such aspects as the thesis and major supporting points, while “lower-order” concerns are grammatical or mechanical aspects of the writing. Whatever you see as “higher” in importance than other aspects should be clear in your grading criteria. Whatever you decide, write your comments in a way that will help students know which aspects of their writing they should focus on FIRST as they revise a paper or write the next paper. For example, if a paper lacks an argument or a main point in an assignment in which either an argument or main point is essential (as is usually the case), address that issue first in your comments before you note any grammatical errors that the student should attend to.
• Refer students back to comments you wrote in the margins. For example, you might comment, “Your argument loses focus in the fourth paragraph (see my questions in margin).” You might also note a frequent pattern of mechanical error, then point them to a specific paragraph that contains that type of error.
• Model clear, concise writing. Before you write final comments, take a moment to gather and order your thoughts.
• Provide opportunities for revision. If you want students to improve their writing, give them an opportunity to apply what they have learned from your comments to a new, revised draft. Note: You should decide before the course begins whether you will allow students to revise their papers and, if so, when such revisions must be turned in (e.g., one week after papers handed back) and how you will grade the revision (e.g., average the grade of the revision with the grade earned on the original paper). If you decide not to allow students to revise papers, consider rewarding improvement from one paper to the next (e.g., the grade on the second paper is worth a greater percentage of the final course grade than the grade on the first paper).
• If students are struggling with their writing, suggest a meeting during office hours. Often, students who are struggling to write clearly are also struggling to clarify what they think about the course material. Ask questions that help them figure out what they think and how to put those thoughts into a well organized, effective paper.
• Recommend that students seek tutorial help at The Writing Center. At  The Writing Center , students can meet with writing tutors who will read their papers and provide feedback. Writing Center tutors are trained to provide students with feedback on the clarity of their writing in a general way and will not necessarily be familiar with the criteria you are using to grade papers, unless you or the student have shared those criteria. However, seeking such feedback can be very helpful to students as they learn to write for academic audiences.

Bean, J. C. (2011). Engaging Ideas: The Professor’s Guide to Integrating Writing, Critical Thinking, and Active Learning in the Classroom. 2nd ed. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Gottschalk, K. and K. Hjortshoj (2004). “What Can You Do with Student Writing?” In The Elements of Teaching Writing: A Resource for Instructors in All Disciplines. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s.

Nicol, D. J., & Macfarlane‐Dick, D. (2006). Formative assessment and self‐regulated learning: A model and seven principles of good feedback practice. Studies  in higher education ,  31 (2), 199-218.

“Responding to Student Writing.” (2000). Harvard Writing Project Bulletin. The President and Fellows of Harvard College.

Straub, Richard. (2000). The Practice of Response: Strategies for Commenting on Student Writing. Cresskill, NJ: Hampton Press.

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Report Card Comments

The Report Card Comments Tool is an invaluable MagicSchool AI powered resource for educators looking to provide narrative end-of-year comments for students in their advisory. This tool simplifies the process of generating thoughtful and personalized comments that communicate students' progress and achievements.

Key Features

Personalization: The tool allows educators to customize comments to reflect each student's individual accomplishments, challenges, and growth.

• Individual Recognition: Utilize the Report Card Comments Tool to acknowledge each student's unique achievements and areas of improvement, providing a comprehensive assessment of their progress.
• Parent Communication: Create narrative comments that effectively communicate a student's performance and development, facilitating meaningful conversations with parents and guardians. ‍
• Motivation and Feedback: Offer positive reinforcement, constructive feedback, and motivation to students as they conclude the school year, encouraging continued growth and success.

In summary, the Report Card Comments Tool is a valuable resource for educators committed to providing personalized and meaningful end-of-year comments for their advisory students. By offering personalization and effective communication, this tool simplifies the process of conveying students' achievements and areas for improvement. It is an essential companion for educators dedicated to recognizing and supporting their students' growth.

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What Teachers Really Want for Teacher Appreciation Week

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It’s that time of year again for social media posts, emails, and gifts thanking teachers for their hard work —and legions of teachers who still report feeling unappreciated. For years, writers have taken to Education Week’s opinion pages to mark the week with both heartfelt thanks and searching reflections on how to make that appreciation last far longer than five days.

In 2021, teachers of the year from seven states came together to write “ It’s Teacher Appreciation Week. Flowers? Mugs? We’re Looking for Something More ,” expressing their hopes for appreciative gestures that won’t wilt by the end of the week.

Their No. 1 ask? “Include teachers in education decisions.”

Another former state teacher of the year came to a similar conclusion several years earlier, when 2014 Texas Teacher of the Year Monica Washington argued that messages of appreciation ring hollow when they aren’t accompanied by a seat at the decisionmaking table: “We are often told that we are ‘valued professionals’ who ‘change the lives of our students every day.’ But we are also micromanaged to immobility, not trusted to make the simplest decisions that affect students’ learning and well-being.”

Sharif El-Mekki has taken on a principal eye view of this conundrum in several recent essays. “What if we made Teacher Appreciation Week last all year?” he asked school leaders last spring , before laying out five actionable recommendations.

Several months later, the former principal kept the theme of teacher appreciation alive into the fall by offering “ The 4 Gifts Principals Should Give Teachers This Year (Hint: Not Another School Mug) .”

That’s not the only call to action opinion writers had for principals. Explaining her own approach in “ Why One Principal Is Asking Her Staff to Do Less ,” Indiana Principal Crystal Thorpe dialed in on the ABCs of school—academics, behavior, and culture—to slow down the runaway snowball of demands on teachers.

For some quick-hit ideas of how school leaders can back up those “thank you” emails with action, look no further than teacher and blogger Larry Ferlazzo’s three roundups of educators sharing the one thing principals can do to support their teachers:

• 7 Ways Principals Can Support Teachers
• Principals: Supporting Your Teachers Doesn’t Have to Be Such Hard Work
• Advice for Principals: Empower Your Teachers

Part of appreciating teachers starts with respecting their profession as more than just a steppingstone to administration or some other career changes. That’s the message of “ Why I’m Happy Being ‘Just a Teacher,’ ” in which Amanda Myers works through her response to a recent dinner party guest who pushed for answers on her “next step” after teaching. The widespread assumption that every teacher is an administrator-in-waiting undermines the valuable types of leadership that teachers bring to the job they already have, she writes.

Gratitude doesn’t just come from outside the profession: Teachers are ready to appreciate each other as well. Just look at what these teachers and student-teachers had to say about the educators who inspired them:

Those words of affirmation are just in line with instructional coach Lisa Westman’s prescriptions in the 2017 opinion essay “ Teachers, Do We Appreciate One Another? ” To help her fellow educators join the mutual-appreciation party, Westman translates the popular love languages—gift giving, words of affirmation, quality time, acts of service, and physical connection—into work-appropriate gestures to make colleagues feel valued.

“Teachers most frequently say they feel unappreciated by society and administration,” she wrote. “And it is easy to look outward at factors we cannot control, we can’t make society appreciate us. But, when we look inward, we must ask, what part do we, teachers, play in creating a culture of appreciation?”

A decade into retirement, former English teacher Laurie Barnoski was still feeling the appreciation when she sat down to write a love letter to teaching back in 2018. After reconnecting with four former students—two of whom had gone on to become English teachers themselves—she was reminded of the long-tail influence of her job.

“By taking time to say thank you,” she wrote, “my students were telling me that my 32 years in the classroom meant something; my goal to have a positive impact on my students was complete. They gave me the greatest gift human beings can give one another: They told me that I mattered.”

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Decision 2024: Board of Education Primary Election

Veteran news anchor/reporter Chris Gordon hosts a roundtable discussion about the politics and issues in the primary election for the three Montgomery County Board of Education seats.

Gordon’s panel of guests includes State Senator Cheryl Kagan (D-17), Reardon Sullivan, a recent candidate for County Executive and former Chairman of the County Republican Party, and Maricé Morales, who served as a State Delegate from 2015 to 2019.

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