Writing forty thoughtful remarks at the end of a term is one of the most time-consuming jobs a class teacher has. The comments below are grouped by the situation you are writing about, so you can find a starting point quickly. Treat them as templates: replace [Name] and [topic], and add one detail from your own classroom so parents know the comment was written about their child. For a deeper look at structuring remarks, see our guide on how to write report card comments parents actually read.
Comments for strong performance
Praise lands best when it names the specific skill. "Excellent work" tells a parent nothing they didn't already see in the marks column; "writes clear, well-organised answers" tells them why the marks are good.
- format_quote[Name] consistently produces work of a very high standard and takes real pride in getting details right.
- format_quote[Name] grasps new concepts quickly and is able to apply them confidently to unfamiliar problems.
- format_quote[Name] writes clear, well-organised answers that show a genuine understanding of the topic.
- format_quote[Name] regularly goes beyond the classwork, asking thoughtful questions that push the whole class further.
- format_quote[Name] has shown excellent command of this term's syllabus and is ready for more challenging material.
- format_quote[Name] explains their reasoning clearly, which shows they understand the "why" and not just the answer.
- format_quote[Name] has made steady, noticeable progress this term, particularly in [skill/topic].
- format_quote[Name]'s results in [subject] have improved significantly since the last assessment — the extra practice is clearly paying off.
- format_quote[Name] is becoming more confident in class and now attempts questions they would have skipped earlier in the year.
- format_quote[Name] has worked hard to strengthen [skill], and it shows in the quality of recent work.
- format_quoteIt has been a pleasure to watch [Name]'s confidence grow over the course of this term.
Comments on effort, organisation and homework
Work habits are often what parents can actually help with at home, so these comments are worth writing with care. Be concrete about the habit, and where it needs work, say what "better" would look like.
- format_quote[Name] is well organised, comes prepared for every lesson and submits homework on time.
- format_quote[Name] works independently and uses class time productively.
- format_quote[Name] listens carefully to feedback and acts on it in the next piece of work.
- format_quote[Name] shows great perseverance and does not give up when a task becomes difficult.
- format_quote[Name] takes care with presentation, and their notebooks are neat and complete.
- format_quote[Name] would benefit from checking their work carefully before submitting it, as small errors are costing marks.
- format_quoteCompleting homework regularly will help [Name] consolidate what is taught in class.
- format_quote[Name] is capable of more and is encouraged to use class time to focus fully on the task at hand.
- format_quoteKeeping notebooks up to date will make revision much easier for [Name] before exams.
- format_quote[Name] is encouraged to ask for help as soon as something is unclear rather than waiting until the test.
Comments on participation, behaviour and teamwork
These often sit under co-scholastic or personal development heads on CBSE and state-board report cards. Keep them about observable behaviour, not personality.
- format_quote[Name] is kind and respectful to classmates and is always willing to help others.
- format_quote[Name] participates actively in class discussions and shares ideas with confidence.
- format_quote[Name] works well in groups, listening to others and contributing fairly.
- format_quote[Name] follows class routines well and sets a good example for peers.
- format_quote[Name] shows leadership during group activities and encourages quieter classmates to take part.
- format_quote[Name] is encouraged to raise their hand and wait their turn during discussions.
- format_quote[Name] is a friendly member of the class and is working on staying focused during lessons.
- format_quote[Name] would benefit from contributing more in class; their written work shows they have a lot to offer.
- format_quoteWe are working with [Name] on responding calmly when things do not go their way.
- format_quote[Name] is learning to share responsibilities fairly during group work.
Constructive comments for students who are struggling
This is the section teachers dread most. The rule of thumb: name the gap, name the next step, and make it clear the school is working on it too. A parent should finish reading and know what to do at home.
- format_quote[Name] finds [topic] challenging at the moment. Regular practice of [specific skill] at home for 15 minutes a day will make a real difference.
- format_quote[Name] understands the concepts in class but struggles to apply them in tests. We will focus on exam-style practice next term.
- format_quote[Name] needs to strengthen their reading fluency; reading aloud at home each evening is strongly recommended.
- format_quote[Name]'s understanding of [topic] is still developing. I would welcome a meeting to discuss how we can support them together.
- format_quote[Name] has the ability to do well but results have been affected by missed classes. Catching up on [chapters] is a priority.
- format_quote[Name] is working towards the expected level in [subject] and is receiving additional support in class.
- format_quote[Name] is beginning to organise longer answers more clearly; planning key points before writing will help further.
Comments by subject
Subject comments are where you can be most precise. Swap in the actual chapter or skill from your syllabus, and pair each one with a strength or next step from the sections above.
- format_quote[Name] has a strong grasp of number operations and solves word problems methodically.
- format_quote[Name] should show all steps of working, as this will help avoid careless calculation errors.
- format_quotePractising multiplication tables regularly will help [Name] work faster and with more confidence.
- format_quote[Name] reads with expression and understands the text well.
- format_quote[Name]'s creative writing is imaginative; the next step is to use paragraphs to organise ideas.
- format_quote[Name] should read a wider range of books to build vocabulary and spelling.
- format_quote[Name] shows curiosity in science and asks thoughtful questions during experiments.
- format_quote[Name] records observations accurately and draws sensible conclusions.
- format_quote[Name] needs to learn scientific terms more carefully to express answers precisely.
- format_quote[Name] has a good understanding of historical events and can explain their causes.
- format_quote[Name] uses maps confidently and interprets them well.
- format_quoteRevising key dates and definitions regularly will help [Name] in written assessments.
Enter remarks alongside marks
Ellifo's report card module keeps scholastic marks and co-scholastic remarks in one place and publishes finished report cards straight to the parent app.
Written with input from class teachers and academic coordinators who run report card season every term.
