Jamesa Wagwau
14 April 2009
opinion
Kampala — MANY years have rolled by but the comments my Primary Four teacher wrote on my script still send cold chills down my spine.
"Poor spelling, disorganised work, untidy handwriting, dense!' read the teachers comments on my English script. The comments hurt me so much that I hated both the teacher and the subject for the whole year.
How sensitive are you with the words you write on the child's scripts or report forms? Did you know that words, are a powerful tool that can either build or destroy a child for life? Children accept a teacher's word as the 'gospel truth'. Any positive or negative comments you make about the child can have lasting impact on their self- esteem.
Challenging as it is, there are very few resources available to help new teachers with this essential task. Let's share some tips on how to write comments on a report card:
The golden rule is: begin early. Work on a few report cards each day. Waiting till the last minute might make you resort to a general comment like 'aim higher' for all children in your class.
Get to know the child first before you comment. Report forms are not just a pile of papers; each represents an individual child. Each form, therefore, deserves thoughtful, insightful and specific comments. Do not write 'below average' without knowing what exactly is 'below average' in this child. Is it the handwriting, spelling, behaviour or reading? Be specific and clear.
Be cautious with the wording and remain positive. Do not 'shoot the child in the head' with insensitive remarks. Look for something positive and point it out. Use words like 'He is showing improvement at reading. Still needs help with mathematics.'
Do not use the marks as your only yardstick. There is more to the child than just the marks. Personalised objective comments require you to keep track of each child in and out of class throughout the term. Look at the child's interpersonal skills, communication skills and interest in co-curricular activities. If you are not sure, talk to other teachers about the child.
Parents appreciate comments specific to their child, not just general remarks. Your comments should reflect that you know the child well. One way of doing this is by framing your remarks using the child's name. For example, 'Kevin has been very active in class during science lessons. He can do better if guided in spellings and writing.'
Remember, academic success is more than just marks. It is the effort the child has put into their studies throughout the term. Focus on the process, not the just the results.
The marks might be low but if the handwriting, spelling, or work presentation has improved, the child should be commended for it.
In emphasising the process, you help the child to learn the value of hard work.
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