English as a Second Language Report Comments for Cambridge Stages 1-3

English as a Second Language covers listening (main points and detail), speaking (communicating meaning, pronunciation, questions, conversations and short presentations), reading (main points, detail and working out unfamiliar words), writing (planning, sentences and paragraphs, spelling and punctuation) and use of English (grammar and vocabulary in speech and writing).

Below are 13 sample sentences for Stages 1-3: two strengths and one next step for each of the 4 comment levels (Extending / Secure / Developing / Beginning), plus a tip for families. They are a small selection from the 440 English as a second language sentences in the full pack. Copy one, then add a detail only you know about the student.

Jump to: Extending · Secure · Developing · Beginning · Writing tips

Student name Pronouns

Fills in the name and pronouns on this page. Nothing is sent anywhere.

Extending E

Strengths

When speaking English, [Name] uses "I like", "I have" and "there is" correctly and adds extra detail, such as a colour or a number.
[Name] checks [his/her/their] English writing independently, finding and correcting most spelling and punctuation mistakes without being asked.

Next step

Following spoken instructions with three or more steps, and then giving similar instructions to a partner, is a good next challenge for [Name].

Secure S

Strengths

When asked a question in English, [Name] answers with short phrases or simple sentences, such as "I like apples", and is generally understood.
When listening to classmates, [Name] generally follows the main idea and responds with a sensible comment or question.

Next step

With practice reading short books aloud, [Name] will recognise more familiar words quickly and read with more expression.

Developing D

Strengths

When writing, [Name] copies familiar words and is learning to write some of them from memory.
[Name] is learning to reread a sentence in English when it does not make sense, and at times does this without being reminded.

Next step

Describing pictures with "there is" and "there are", using a model sentence, will help [Name] talk about one thing or more than one.

Beginning B

Strengths

Singing with the class, [Name] copies the actions to familiar songs and is beginning to join in with a few repeated words.
In both speaking and writing, [Name] is starting to put two English words together, such as "red book", with adult support.

Next step

Repeating short phrases from favourite stories and songs, such as a line that comes back again and again, will help [Name] say more in English.

Support at home

You could ask your child to teach you a few new English words from school and then use them together during the week.

How to write English as a second language comments for Stages 1-3

Describe what the student can understand and say now: following short instructions, naming everyday objects, answering with a word or a short phrase. Small, concrete steps show families that progress is happening.
Name the support that helps, such as pictures, gestures or a talk partner, as a classroom strategy rather than a label. This keeps the comment about learning, not about the student's background.
Songs, rhymes and repeated stories are a common way into English at this age. If the student joins in, say so, and suggest a home tip such as sharing stories in whichever language the family uses.

Watch out: Avoid comparing the student with speakers of English as a first language or guessing at a home language. Describe what the student can do in listening, speaking, reading, writing and use of English, and the support that helps.

The four levels describe how independently and securely the student shows what has been taught, never a grade or a test result. Extending suits accurate, independent work applied to unfamiliar tasks, with reasons explained; Secure suits accurate work in familiar tasks with occasional support; Developing suits learning shown sometimes, or with a model, word bank or worked example; Beginning names what is starting to show and the support that helps. Show the level through the work rather than writing the level word.

What English as a Second Language covers

Strands and skills covered for English as a second language:

Listening: understanding main points and detail in talk, instructions, stories and recordings
Speaking: communicating meaning, pronunciation, asking and answering questions, taking part in conversations and presentations
Reading: understanding main points and detail, working out unfamiliar words, reading for pleasure
Writing: planning and writing texts, spelling, punctuation, organisation and appropriate language
Use of English: grammar and vocabulary used accurately in speech and writing

More Cambridge Primary and Lower Secondary comments

How these sentences were made, and what has been checked: About these comments.

Not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge University Press & Assessment or Cambridge International Education. "Cambridge" is used only to describe the curricula these comments are written for.