What must be included in the written report regarding observations?

• A. Factual, objective, and complete statements about the student's injuries, condition, or behavior.
• B. Personal opinions about the child.
• C. The reporter's personal beliefs.
• D. Speculation about the perpetrator.

Answer: (A)

Observations must be described in factual, objective, and complete terms about what you observed or were told about the student’s injuries, condition, or behavior. This means using neutral language, sticking to observable details, and avoiding speculation, personal opinions, or guesses about causes or perpetrators. The purpose is to provide a clear, unbiased, verifiable account that investigators can rely on and that supports any follow-up actions.

In practice, focus on what was seen or heard: describe injuries with observable details (location, size, color, pattern), note the student’s condition or mood (appeared anxious, unresponsive, disoriented), and record specific behaviors or statements exactly as observed or quoted. Include relevant contextual details such as date, time, and location, and note any actions you took. Do not include diagnoses, beliefs about individuals, or rumors. If something isn’t certain, indicate that uncertainty rather than making assumptions.