Confused by your child’s report card? You’re not alone.
Many parents open their child’s report card and wonder:
Is my child meeting expectations?
What do these ratings actually mean?
How can I support their learning at home?
The challenge? Every province in Canada has a different grading system. While some use letter grades or percentages, others focus on competency-based learning and skill development.
This guide breaks down how report cards work across Canada, explains what to look for in teacher comments, and shares actionable steps to help your child succeed.
Why Report Cards Matter More Than Just Grades
A report card isn’t just a summary of test scores—it’s a powerful tool that helps parents understand their child’s learning progress.
✔ Track academic performance—See how well your child is meeting curriculum standards.
✔ Identify learning gaps—Find out where they need extra support.
✔ Understand work habits—Assess organization, effort, and classroom behaviour.
✔ Plan for success—Set realistic goals for improvement.
💡 Tip: Many provinces now include learning behaviours in report cards, such as collaboration, problem-solving, and responsibility—skills that are essential for future success.
How Report Cards Differ Across Canada
Canada’s education system is province-run, which means grading systems vary across the country. Let’s explore what parents need to know in eight major provinces:
Ontario: Letter Grades + Work Habits
Grades 1–6: Letter grades (A, B, C, D).
Grades 7–12: Percentage-based grades (50%+ is passing).
Separate assessment of learning skills like organization and self-regulation.
Example: "Your child collaborates well but needs to improve time management for independent tasks."
Learn More: Ontario Report Cards
British Columbia: Competency-Based Learning
Grades K-9: Proficiency scale—Emerging, Developing, Proficient, Extending.
Grades 10-12: Letter grades + percentages.
Focus on narrative feedback rather than just scores.
Example: "Your child is proficient in scientific reasoning but should work on articulating ideas more clearly."
Learn More: British Columbia Report Cards
Alberta: Easy-to-Understand 4-Point Scale
Grades K-9: 4-point scale (1 = Not Meeting Expectations, 4 = Excelling).
Grades 10-12: Percentage-based grading.
Competency-based assessments focusing on skill mastery.
Example: "Your child is achieving Level 4 in problem-solving but requires additional practice in geometry."
Learn More: Alberta Report Cards
Quebec: Percentage-Based + Competency Evaluations
All Grades: Percentage-based grading (60%+ is passing).
Competency weightings vary by subject (e.g., reasoning is weighted more in math).
Example: "Your child received 75% in French writing and demonstrates progress in grammar application."
Learn More: Quebec Report Cards
Nova Scotia: Detailed Teacher Comments
Grades P-8: Achievement levels—Well Developed, Developed, Developing, Experiencing Difficulty.
Grades 9-12: Percentage-based grades (50%+ is passing).
Personalized teacher feedback on both academic and social growth.
Example: "Your child excels in reading comprehension but should practice writing stronger summaries."
Learn More: Nova Scotia Report Cards
New Brunswick: Focus on Learning Competencies
Grades K-8: 4-point proficiency scale (4 = Strong Performance, 1 = Limited Understanding).
Grades 9-12: Percentage-based grading.
Emphasis on work habits alongside academic skills.
Example: "Your child demonstrates curiosity in science but needs structured guidance to stay on task."
Learn More: New Brunswick Report Cards
Manitoba: A Mix of Proficiency + Percentage Grading
Grades K-8: 4-level scale (4 = Advanced, 1 = Emerging).
Grades 9-12: Percentage-based grading.
Strong teacher feedback to help parents understand progress.
Example: "Your child is developing confidence in math but needs to strengthen problem-solving strategies."
Learn More: Manitoba Report Cards
Saskatchewan: Focus on Skill Application
Grades 1-9: 4-point scale (4 = Excelling, 1 = Needs Improvement).
Grades 10-12: Percentage-based grading (50%+ is passing).
Emphasis on real-world skill application.
Example: "Your child collaborates well in group settings but should take more initiative in independent work."
Learn More: Saskatchewan Report Cards
Interpreting Teacher Feedback: More Than Just a Grade
Strengths: "Your child actively participates and asks thoughtful questions in class."
Areas to Improve: "Your child needs to improve writing organization."
Next Steps: "Daily reading at home will strengthen vocabulary and comprehension."
💡 Tip: Compare report card comments over time to track trends in your child’s learning.
What to Do After Reviewing Your Child’s Report Card
✔ Celebrate Progress—Acknowledge successes, no matter how small.
✔ Address Learning Gaps—Identify struggles and create a plan for improvement.
✔ Meet With Teachers—Ask for additional insights or strategies.
✔ Consider Tutoring—If needed, get extra support to close learning gaps.
Tutoring Support: Bridging the Gaps in Learning
Report cards are not just a measure of performance—they also highlight opportunities for growth. For many families, this is where tutoring can make a significant difference. Personalized tutoring provides targeted support to address challenges identified in report cards, helping students build confidence and excel academically.
How Tutoring Can Help
- Reinforce Foundational Skills: If your child is struggling in core subjects like math, science, or literacy, tutoring can strengthen their foundational knowledge.
- Close Learning Gaps: Address gaps in understanding before they become larger obstacles in higher grades.
- Boost Confidence: Personalized attention helps students feel more capable and engaged in their studies.
- Develop Study Skills: Tutors teach strategies like organization, time management, and goal setting to improve overall academic performance.
Specialized Tutoring for Unique Needs
Some children require additional support beyond the classroom settings:
- Learning Disabilities: Tutors trained in special education can provide personalized strategies for students with ADHD, Dyslexia, and other learning differences.
- Language Learning: For bilingual or ESL students, tutoring ensures they stay on track with the curriculum while mastering new languages.
Why Choose Connect Education?
At Connect Education, our certified teachers provide flexible, one-on-one tutoring tailored to your child’s needs. Here’s why parents trust us:
- Expert Educators: All our tutors are certified teachers who understand the Canadian curriculum.
- Customized Plans: Lessons are designed to address your child’s unique strengths and challenges.
- Convenient Options: Choose from in-person or virtual sessions to fit your schedule.
- Comprehensive Support: We cover all subjects, including math, science, literacy, French, and more.
Ready to take the next step? Book your FREE assessment today at Connect Education
