'low marks' is a correct and usable phrase in written English, and can be used to describe a poor performance.
For example: "Although I studied hard, I still received low marks on my test."
South Koreans give Mr. Kim low marks.
The firm front seats, however, earned low marks for comfort.
In this test only the two passed, and they had very low marks.
Some schools with low marks remain open, but are warned that they must show progress.
Similarly, automobile drivers, the morning after, get low marks on simulated road tests.
Scots rate the overall BBC highly, but give low marks to BBC Scotland.
The polls gave President Bush low marks for his management of immigration.
The teachers also gave school leaders low marks for communication, management, school discipline and useful feedback.
LAST week's state-of-the-union address received unexpectedly low marks from some commentators.
But here again, our tax system comes in with low marks.
But many investment experts and economists give the 401(k) system low marks.
