Descriptors for Whole School Themes
See “Effort and homework Grades” for Effort (in lesson) and Homework grades.
As a guide: A means always (“Excellent”), B means regularly or nearly always, C
means “needs improvement”, D means only occasionally, and E means rarely, though not
never (“Very Poor”).
Verbal Answers
A
The student is prepared to give a sensible answer. S/he raises a hand to make a point
and never interrupts. Spoken comments are clear and audible to the audience. The language
used is subject specific.
E
The student rarely becomes actively involved in relevant individual and group
communication.
Meets Deadlines
A
The student can always be relied upon to complete tasks on time.
E
The student rarely keeps to deadlines in completing tasks.
Works Independently
A
The student always makes sure any missed classwork or homework is caught up at the
earliest opportunity. Although s/he is prepared to ask questions when help is needed, s/he
tries to see problems through to the end using her/his own initiative. The student does not
require the support of fellow students to engage with the work.
E
The student is unable to work without support. S/he does not display willingness nor the
initiative to carry out tasks alone.
Works as Part of a Group
A
The student works well in a collaborative setting. S/he listens and considers others'
points of view. S/he makes suggestions of his/her own and can accept it if they are not
accepted by the group. The student supports others in the group.
E
The student will not accept the points of view of others. S/he does not work well in a
group and disrupts the group dynamics by what they say or how they act.
Follows Instructions
A
The student listens carefully and always follows the teacher's directions unaided and
without objection. S/he is able to follow written instructions without support.
E
The student refuses, or is unable, to follow both verbal and written instructions.
Equipped for the Lesson
A
The student will always have the necessary materials: texts, files, paper, pen, diary,
pencil, eraser, sharpener, ruler, and for maths and science, compasses, protractor, and
scientific or graphical calculator. For PE the student will always have the necessary kit.
E
The student is rarely prepared for the class.
Punctuality
A
The student will always be on time to class, and will settle down quickly and quietly
ready to start the lesson. The student changes into his/her PE kit in good time.
E
The student is rarely on time to class and/or takes excessive time in settling down to the
lesson.
Presentation
A
The student shows an obvious and consistent pride in the presentation of his/her work
(even if they are not naturally a neat worker). Work is clearly set out.
Underlining is done neatly with a ruler. The writing is clear. Errors are neatly crossed out.
Correction fluid is not used.
The student’s PE kit is always clean and worn with pride.
E
There is an obvious lack of care and pride in the presentation of the student’s work.
Attitude
A
This is about respect for peers and the teacher. The student always listens to the
teacher and other students. S/he stays on task and actively takes part in the lesson/activity/
group work, and never makes inappropriate comments or uses inappropriate language. The
student always pays full attention in class and does not disrupt the lesson in any way.
E
By failing to pay attention and disrupting the lesson the student rarely shows respect. S/
he does not show responsibility for his/her own actions and their consequences, and does not
react positively to advice.