Academic Progress Check: Is Your Child Where They Should Be?

What Are Grade-Level Expectations?

Grade-level expectations are learning goals set by provincial education ministries outlining what students should know and be able to do by the end of each school year. These include:

• Reading comprehension and fluency
• Math problem-solving and reasoning
• Writing and grammar
• Science and social studies understanding

 

Grade-Level Benchmarks by Stage

Here’s a general breakdown of what students are expected to achieve:

 

Grades K–3:

• Read simple stories independently
• Add and subtract numbers up to 100
• Use punctuation and capitalize correctly
• Recognize community roles and basic geography

 

Grades 4–6:

• Read and understand multi-paragraph texts
• Perform multi-digit multiplication and division
• Write structured essays with main ideas and details
• Understand key science concepts (e.g., ecosystems, energy)

 

Grades 7–9:

• Analyze themes in literature and identify bias
• Solve algebraic expressions and work with decimals/fractions
• Write research-based essays
• Understand geography, civics, and scientific method

 

Grades 10–12:

• Interpret complex texts and synthesize information
• Solve equations with variables and functions
• Prepare formal lab reports and essays
• Explore historical significance and scientific theories

 

 

Why June is the Perfect Time to Assess Progress

By June, most of the school year’s curriculum has been covered. Teachers have had enough time to observe your child’s academic habits, and end-of-year assessments provide a clearer picture of performance. Report cards are coming out, and final tests are usually complete, making this the ideal time to:

• Reflect on academic performance
• Address any learning gaps before summer
• Create a plan to prevent summer learning loss

 

 

Signs Your Child is Meeting Grade-Level Expectations

Here are common indicators that your child is on track:

 

1. Strong Report Card Comments

• Meeting or exceeding expectations in core subjects
• Positive feedback on participation and effort
• Demonstrates independence and problem-solving skills

 

2. Confidence in Homework and Tests

• Rarely struggles with homework assignments
• Performs well on quizzes and tests without excessive help

 

3. Engaged and Curious Learner

• Asks thoughtful questions
• Completes assignments on time
• Enjoys reading or learning new things independently

 

4. Mastery of Core Skills

For example:

• Grades K-3: Can read age-appropriate books, basic math facts
• Grades 4-6: Can write structured paragraphs, understand fractions and decimals
• Grades 7-12: Can manage multiple subjects, analyze information, and work independently

 

 

Signs Your Child Might Be Falling Behind

June is also a great time to catch potential issues. Red flags include:

 

1. Report Card Indicates “Approaching Expectations”

• If your child consistently scores below expectations, this may signal the need for additional support

 

2. Homework Struggles

• Needs frequent help
• Takes longer than expected to complete assignments

 

3. Low Test Scores

• Failing or near-failing grades in core subjects
• Difficulty remembering key concepts

 

4. Lack of Confidence or Motivation

• Expresses frustration with school
• Avoids academic tasks
• Says “I’m not good at this”

 

5. Teacher Concerns

• Communication from the teacher regarding learning difficulties or behavioural issues

 

 

How to Talk to Your Child About Their Progress

Academic conversations can feel intimidating, especially for students who are struggling. Here are ways to open the conversation:

• Ask open-ended questions: “What part of school do you enjoy most?”
• Be encouraging: Focus on growth, not just grades.
• Stay neutral: Avoid turning it into a lecture. Listen first.
• Create goals together: Ask, “What’s something you’d like to get better at this summer?”

This helps your child feel supported, not judged.

 

 

Common Parent Mistakes to Avoid in June

• Relying solely on report card grades – Grades may not reflect effort, test anxiety, or missed curriculum.
• Skipping a summer plan – Learning loss over the summer can widen existing gaps.
• Not asking for help – Many tutoring programs are busiest in September. Start early.

 

 

How to Address Gaps Before the Summer Slide

Summer learning loss is real, especially in math and reading. If your child is behind in June, the summer break is your chance to:

 

Schedule a Professional Assessment

• Academic assessments with qualified tutors can help pinpoint exact areas of weakness.

 

Get a Tutor

• Consider professional tutoring through Tutors on Call. Our qualified tutors provide personalized support, online or in-person.

 

Set Summer Learning Goals

• Choose 1–2 focus areas
• Create a weekly schedule
• Use workbooks or online tools for structured practice

 

Encourage Independent Learning

• Include fun activities like reading challenges, educational apps, or science experiments

 

Stay in Touch With Teachers

• Ask for advice on specific skills to work on during the summer

 

 

What Parents Can Do Over the Summer

Even if your child is meeting grade-level expectations, summer is a good time to reinforce and advance learning.

 

For Elementary Students:

• Visit the library weekly
• Practice math facts with games
• Keep a summer journal
• Engage in science crafts or museum visits

 

For Middle and High School Students:

• Practice essay writing and research skills
• Preview upcoming curriculum topics
• Take online courses for enrichment
• Volunteer or engage in leadership activities

 

 

Checklist: Your June Academic Review Plan

Here’s a quick list to help guide your academic progress check in June:

 

Why Academic Progress Checks Matter

Performing an academic progress check in June is not only about identifying weaknesses but also recognizing your child’s strengths. Celebrating accomplishments can:

• Build confidence
• Reinforce good learning habits
• Encourage goal setting for the next school year

This reflective practice teaches students responsibility for their education—an invaluable life skill.

 

How Tutors on Call Can Help

At Tutors on Call, we offer:

• One-on-one tutoring with certified teachers and subject specialists
• Customized programs aligned with provincial curricula
• Monthly progress reports to keep parents informed
• Online and in-home options across Canada

Whether your child needs remedial help or enrichment, we can match them with a tutor who fits their needs.

We also offer consultation services to help you create a summer learning strategy tailored to your child’s goals.

 

 

Final Thoughts

June is more than just the end of the school year—it’s a checkpoint. Knowing whether your child is meeting grade-level expectations can help you plan their summer effectively and give them a head start for the next school year.

Let this be the month you check in, reassess, and take action. A few small steps now can make a huge difference in your child’s academic confidence and success.

Need help identifying gaps or setting a summer learning plan? Contact Tutors on Call today for a personalized consultation.