Report card time is a stressful one for both parents and teachers. Here are some things that all parents should know. Most of these comments will apply to primary students.
1. It is not an exact science. Yes, we keep records and marks, but sometimes it comes down to that gut instinct (which has been well honed after years of teaching).
2. Pay attention to the qualifiers. The little words in front of statements mean a lot. There is a big difference between always, usually and sometimes. Comments like “independently” or “with teacher assistance” are also very important.
3. We don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings. That’s why we say things like “is reminded to” or “is encouraged to” – that means that your child is currently not doing something they should be doing. Read between the lines.
4. Report Card comments are generally quite generic. Everyone gets pretty much the same comment except for those little qualifiers. Language and math will be the most individualized comments.
5. Comments for primary students are sometimes not suitable for the students themselves to hear. A teacher’s job is to give an accurate portrayal of your child’s strengths and weakness. The weaknesses are often a focal point. If your child is struggling in school, hearing some of these comments may be difficult to understand.
6. We do have to grade within certain curriculum confines. Sometimes very smart children have a hard time following instructions and producing work as it is expected. This will be reflected in the grades, but it does not mean that that is all there is to your child. What’s important, especially at the primary level is that your child understands and communicates (at least to you) the concepts that are being taught in class. The grade itself is not the most important thing.
7. Marks can very easily change from one term to the next. New concepts are taught and new expectations are evaluated. Having an A in one term does not guarantee an A the next.
If you really disagree with something you see on the report, discuss it with the teacher at the parent/teacher conference. While it is unlikely that a grade will get changed, the teacher will probably spend some extra time evaluating your child’s understanding to the concepts being taught.
Sue, urbanmoms.ca’s Education Expert, is a mother of 3 and a teacher for more than 10 years. Her experience in the classroom and as a mother provide a great perspective to help teachers and parents open up the lines of communication. Sue will be a regular contributor to the Urban Parents section of urbanmoms.ca.