Proficiency Pigs
I have the images printed on 8.5 x 11 cardstock, with magnets* on the back. We pulled them out frequently and use them to frontload activities- to discuss what "proficient" might look like in a task we are about to begin- as well as to reflect upon activities once we've finished. I find both ways equally valuable :) The kids really, really get it. The metaphor of pigs on skateboards really seems to work! Who knew?!
They are able to identify what all of the levels of proficiency might "look like" in any given task, and they use the language in a myriad of contexts in our daily experiences. They are very honest about where they are at because they know that it's not a competition or a judgment, but rather, an authentic observation of "where they are at" regarding this particular thing at this particular time. The posters work really well with goal-setting, as well as the concept of "yet" (as in, I'm not a proficient skateboarder, yet).