NT Report Comments Checklist: Semester Reporting Rules

What NT semester reports require

The Northern Territory uses an A–E scale for all learning areas, based on NTBOS-approved standards. Use this checklist to see which areas need a grade this semester before you start writing comments.

• Two reports a year, one per semester.
• English and Mathematics: A–E grade and comment every semester.
• Other learning areas: A–E grade at least once a year, so plan which semester each is reported.
• Transition: effort reporting only, with no A–E grades.
• Educational Adjustment Plan: A–E grading is optional, so report against the goals in the plan instead.

Comment checklist before you submit

• Does the first sentence match the grade? For example, "is achieving at expected level" should sit with a mid-scale grade.
• Does each comment name a strength, an example and a next step?
• For areas not graded this semester, did you still leave a short progress note if your school expects one?
• For Transition students, is the comment about effort and engagement, with no grade wording?
• Is the language free of jargon a family would not know?
• Have you checked spelling, student name and pronouns?

Example: Transition effort comment

Examples

• "[Student] settles into routines quickly and shows enthusiasm for stories and songs. They try new activities willingly and are learning to share and take turns."

Example: student with an Educational Adjustment Plan

Examples

• "[Student] has worked towards their Educational Adjustment Plan goal of writing a short sentence independently. With a sentence starter they now write two sentences and check for a capital letter and full stop. The next goal is adding a describing word."

Matching NT level wording to the grade

• Beginning to develop skills: name one skill the student shows and the support in place.
• Developing expected skills: describe what they do reliably and what is still emerging.
• Achieving at expected level: describe where the skill is secure and how to extend it.
• Achieving above expected level, at a high level, or at an exceptional level: give evidence of depth or independence rather than extra adjectives.