What should i write for feedback

Selecting the right words and phrases is imperative to getting the most out of feedback. Refer to this four-part glossary to ensure you're giving great feedback. Be specific, so the other person understands the context. Mention the time and place or specific project task.

Here are some example phrases:. Providing specific context empowers the receiver to better repeat positive behaviors and address negative behaviors.

And in the case of positive feedback, the words "always" and "never" are still too general, and without reference of a specific situation, they can leave your colleague unsure about what exactly was good about his or her work. Try to use facts that can be measured to help ensure your comments are objective. Again, this is about providing context.

Try these phrases:. Avoid adjectives and focus on actions. For example, if your evaluation was of a university's English department, you might begin by evaluating the department head. Give very specific criticisms and feedback for how she fulfills each of her responsibilities. Detail strengths to retain as well as elements that could be more effective and offer concrete suggestions for each criticism. For example, if you notice that the department head has been late turning in instructor evaluations, you might write, "The department head provides very thorough and detailed evaluations; however, the evaluations are often turned in late, perhaps as a result of her desire to write very comprehensive evaluations.

In the future, she should consider omitting nonessential detail to reduce the amount of time she needs to complete the reports. This example does not shy away from offering a direct criticism, but it compliments the director for her thoroughness at the same time rather than focusing solely on her inability to turn in evaluations on time. Evaluate each department, and then each key employee within the department.

Thoroughly review each department's functions and how well the key employees perform these functions. Offer an overall evaluation of the negative elements that you discovered, and write an action plan for the department to resolve them.

This plan will include elements from all the criticisms you pointed out in the individual critiques. Include a detailed explanation of the department's significant strengths, including compliments for key employees who are performing exceptionally well. Discuss how the department can build on these strengths. Give a brief overall assessment of the department with both the significant strengths and weaknesses included. Giving students insight into our experience as readers helps to connect the social and emotional elements of writing.

Positive comments highlighting our reading experience can encourage students to think about their audience more intentionally as they write. Pointing out the choices and writing moves that students make helps them feel that we see and value their efforts.

Thinking of these skills together helps us set up feedback loops. For example, after a recent close reading activity, I asked students to name one lesson they had learned from the mentor text that they could apply to their own writing. Next time I give writing feedback, I can highlight the places where I see students using these lessons. Another teacher, Grete Howland , offered a nonjudgmental word choice. Positive feedback supports student progress. Think of positive comments as a boost of momentum that can help students continue to build their identity as writers.

Drawing out specific evidence of growth can help students see their own progress.