ACT Report Comments: Mathematics Examples, Years 1–10

Writing ACT report comments for Mathematics

A good ACT maths comment tells families which part of the maths the grade reflects. Choose the one or two strands where you hold the strongest evidence this semester, and keep the language plain.

• Strands: Number, Algebra, Measurement, Space, Statistics and Probability.
• Proficiencies: understanding, fluency, problem-solving and reasoning.
• Pair every strength with a next step in the same strand.

Number and algebra examples

Examples

• "[Student] is achieving at expected level in Number. They use place value to add and subtract larger numbers and explain their strategy. Practising multiplication facts daily will build speed and confidence."
• "[Student] is achieving beyond expected level in Number and Algebra. They solve multi-step problems with fractions and describe the rule in a number pattern. Writing and testing their own rules is a good next challenge."
• "[Student] is developing skills with guidance in Number. They count and compare numbers to 100 and need prompts to choose an operation for word problems. Acting out problems with counters will help them decide."
• "[Student] requires additional support in Number. They count reliably to 20 and are learning to partition numbers. Short daily games with dice and cards at home will strengthen this."

Measurement and space examples

Examples

• "[Student] measures length, mass and capacity with standard units and chooses an appropriate tool. Converting between units is the next step."
• "[Student] names and describes shapes and objects using correct vocabulary and can give directions using a simple map. Drawing their own maps will deepen this understanding."

Statistics and probability examples

Examples

• "[Student] collects data, builds graphs and explains what the data shows. They are learning to compare two data sets and describe the differences using numbers."
• "[Student] describes the chance of everyday events using words such as likely and unlikely. Running small experiments will help them see how results vary."

Proficiency phrases for any strand

• Understanding: "connects ideas, for example fractions, decimals and percentages."
• Fluency: "recalls facts accurately and chooses efficient strategies."
• Problem-solving: "applies maths to unfamiliar problems and checks the answer is reasonable."
• Reasoning: "explains why a strategy works and justifies the answer."