grade level

Meaning

'Grade level' refers to the school year or class level a student is in (for example, third grade). It can also describe the level of difficulty of reading materials, lessons, or tests that are appropriate for students of that age. It is commonly used by teachers, parents, and students in school contexts.

Examples

• Her reading skills are currently at a third-grade level.

  Her reading skills are currently at a third-grade level.

• Most kids in this class are performing at their expected grade level.

  Most kids in this class are performing at their expected grade level.

• This science book is too difficult for his grade level.

  This science book is too difficult for his grade level.

• We need to group the students by their grade level for the field trip.

  We need to group the students by their grade level for the field trip.

• Does this math test match the state's grade level standards?

  Does this math test match the state's grade level standards?

Common Mistakes

• ✗ What is your grade's level?

  ✓ What is your grade level?

  'Grade level' is a compound noun. Do not use a possessive apostrophe-s between the two words.

• ✗ He is reading on grade level.

  ✓ He is reading at grade level.

  In English, we use the preposition 'at' (not 'on') when talking about performing or reading at a certain grade level.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The teacher wants to make sure all books are appropriate for the students' ___.

  💡 The school year or difficulty level suitable for their age.

  Show answer

  grade level

• She is already reading two years above her ___.

  💡 The standard level for her age group.

  Show answer

  grade level