What does it mean word for word?
The term is composed of notes, which means "notes" or "marks" in this context.
Which one should you use?
While the English word "notes" often refers to written observations or memos, in French, notes specifically refers to the numerical or lettered marks or grades received on an assignment.
How does it change in a sentence?
The default plural form is notes scolaires. If you are referring to a single grade or mark, use the singular form note scolaire.
When do people say it?
The French school system uses specific designations for different years. In elementary school, grades include CP (Cours Préparatoire), CE1 (Cours Élémentaire 1), CE2 (Cours Élémentaire 2), CM1 (Cours Moyen 1) and CM2 (Cours Moyen 2). Middle school grades are known as 6ème (sixième), 5ème (cinquième), 4ème (quatrième) and 3ème (troisième). In high school, Première is the second-to-last year and Terminale is the final year.
Did you know?
- In France, notes scolaires are typically graded on a scale of 0 to 20, where 10 is the passing mark. Unlike the American system, a 20 is extremely rare because perfection is often viewed as unattainable.
- If you want to say you 'aced' an exam in a casual way, you might use the verb cartonner, which literally means 'to card' or 'to hit the jackpot'.
- To describe failing an exam miserably, French students might use the verb ramasser, which literally means 'to pick up' or 'to gather'.
Examples in context
- Mes notes scolaires étaient moyennes.My school grades were average.This sentence is useful for describing that school grades were average using notes scolaires.Tatoeba #827631 by sacredceltic, translation #21561 by CK
- Mes notes scolaires ont été moyennes.My school grades have been average.This sentence is useful for describing that school grades have been average using notes scolaires.Tatoeba #1631110 by sacredceltic, translation #1748906 by belgavox
- J'ai obtenu un 18 en mathématiques.I got an 18 in mathematics.
- J'ai eu entre 14 et 16 en français.I got between 14 and 16 in French.
- J'ai une bonne note en biologie.I have a good grade in biology
- Elle est très fière de ses notes scolaires.She is very proud of her school grades.
Example conversation
Two students are talking about their report cards.
- NathanEst-ce que tu as reçu tes notes scolaires ?Did you get your school grades?
- ManonOui, je suis très contente de mes résultats.Yes, I am very happy with my results.
- NathanMoi aussi, j'ai enfin réussi en maths.Me too, I finally passed in math.
- ManonFélicitations, Nathan !Congratulations, Nathan!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
