Report Writing

1. Report Writing

2. What is a report • In groups discuss and define the purpose and function of a child report.

3. What is a report A child’s report is an illustration of work undertaken, challenge, success, improvement and progress. Report comments should always demonstrate and model expectations, outline standards, engage learners/parents. Comments should always celebrate success and highlight the next steps in learning.

4. The joy of reports • Time-consuming • Laborious • Painstaking • Dull • Repetitive

5. Do we need to? • legal requirement • Part of your job • Statutory requirement • Essential home/school communication • Maintain relationship between home/school • Celebrate success • Outline next step in learning

6. Whine, bitch or snip! • Gush or over do the superlatives • Never use a report as an opportunity to settle scores

7. Please avoid… The following statement actually appeared in children's reports! “The improvement in his handwriting has revealed his inability to spell.” “The tropical forests are safe when John enters the woodwork room, for his projects are small and progress is slow.” “In Simon’s case all ages are dark.”

8. Writing • K.I.S.S • No need for Jargon • Say what needs to be said • Keep to the facts • You’re not a novelist • Be positive, supportive, objective, truthful. • Nothing should be new or sensationalist! • Think… would you read and be pleased with the report.

9. Write a general statement Write a general statement for the following child… Statement must be no more than 150 words. • High level of attainment in English • National standard in Mathematics • Progress has been slow • Challenging behavior unless engaged • Fantastic musician

10. COMMENTS • gets on well with a variety of children in the class and is a very lively and cheerful pupil. • has been working extremely hard in a variety of curriculum areas. • seems to prefer to work on an individual basis rather than in a group situation. can work equally well independently, or with others • is always helpful and willing to undertake jobs around the classroom. is always polite and friendly and gets on well with everyone. • is usually cheerful with a smile and a joke. • has a good sense of humour and enjoys sharing a joke with children and adults alike. • Although the standard of presentation of his/her work has been variable, N works very hard and has produced some work to be extremely proud of. • needs to put more effort into written work. • is too easily distracted in class. • is generally hardworking, although he/she can be easily distracted. • is always helpful and willing to undertake jobs around the classroom. • is always polite and friendly and gets on well with everyone. • is usually cheerful with a smile and a joke. • has a good sense of humour and enjoys sharing a joke with children and adults alike.

11. Important! SMSC Elements • How is the child spiritually? • How is the child morally? • How is the child socially? • What is their level of cultural understanding? Include the whole child, not just the academic version.

12. School mission statement and Ethos as a basis. At Topcliffe Primary School we believe that every child should experience a secure, happy and caring environment. One that fosters and engages with children to become effective, creative and valued members of society. Who are motivated and embody independence and self-reliance. Through our ethos we actively encourage high moral and spiritual values that enable children to access learning and apply knowledge, promote curiosity and wonder and empower children to make a difference to their lives and the lives of others. We firmly believe that through committed and caring teaching and five steps to improvement. All our children will be able to reach their full potential.