End with a motivating statement about their potential. Verified ESL Comment Samples by Proficiency Level 1. Beginning / Emerging Learners
Identifies key details and plot points during classroom lectures and discussions.
Example weak comment: "Maria is improving in English." Example verified comment: "Maria (WIDA Level 2 - Emerging) can now identify main ideas in short, illustrated paragraphs. She uses sentence frames to ask basic questions. Next step: Using plural -s consistently in present-tense verbs."
Ask yourself: Does this comment prove I know this child? sample esl report card comments verified
[Name] effectively uses transition words to connect ideas in their writing.
: A widely endorsed technique for delivering feedback is the "sandwich" method. Start with a positive observation about the student's strengths, then provide constructive feedback on one specific area for improvement, and end with an encouraging statement about their potential. This keeps the tone supportive and motivational.
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After reviewing thousands of report cards and consulting with K-12 ESL specialists, we have compiled a list of comments. These are not generic "good job" phrases. They are specific, WIDA-aligned, and focused on growth, not perfection.
"[Student Name] is often one of the first to answer questions and enjoys discussing the stories we read in class". Example weak comment: "Maria is improving in English
Can now produce clear, concise, and complete sentences with proper punctuation.
"Tends to rush when reading, which can lead to mistakes; I suggest practicing with shorter texts to improve focus".
For more comprehensive lists and verified templates, you can explore resources such as: TeacherVision for Language Arts and Reading specific comments. Education World for a library of over 125 report card comment samples. The Supply Room for phrases describing general student performance. English proficiency tier (e.g., Beginner vs. Advanced)? 210 Report Card Comments for Language Arts and Reading
Utilizes contextual clues effectively to decipher the meaning of unfamiliar words during independent reading.
Use clear language that parents who may also be learning English can understand.