The NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 is a comprehensive resource designed to support markers in assessing student writing. It outlines the criteria used to evaluate student responses in both narrative and persuasive writing tasks. The guide includes detailed descriptors for each criterion, providing clear expectations for what constitutes high-quality writing at each level of achievement. The guide is a vital tool for ensuring consistency and fairness in the assessment of student writing.
Overview of NAPLAN Writing
NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy) is an annual assessment for Australian students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9. The writing component of NAPLAN assesses students’ ability to communicate effectively in written form, focusing on both narrative and persuasive writing genres. Students are presented with a writing prompt or stimulus, and they are required to produce a written response within a specific time frame. This assessment aims to measure students’ understanding of writing conventions, their ability to craft engaging and coherent narratives, and their skill in constructing persuasive arguments. The NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 provides a detailed framework for assessing student writing, ensuring consistency and fairness across the assessment process.
The writing task is designed to assess a range of skills and abilities, including⁚
- Understanding and responding to the writing prompt
- Planning and organizing ideas effectively
- Developing a clear and engaging narrative or argument
- Using appropriate vocabulary and sentence structure
- Demonstrating an understanding of grammar and punctuation conventions
- Presenting a well-structured and cohesive piece of writing
The NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 serves as a valuable resource for both teachers and assessors, providing guidance on the specific criteria used to evaluate student writing. This guide helps to ensure that all students are assessed fairly and consistently, allowing for accurate and reliable measurement of their writing abilities.
Marking Criteria
The NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 utilizes a set of ten criteria to assess student writing. These criteria are designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of various aspects of writing quality, encompassing both content and form. The criteria are applied to both narrative and persuasive writing, though some are specific to each genre. Here’s a brief overview of the criteria⁚
- Audience⁚ This criterion assesses the writer’s ability to adapt their language and style to suit the intended audience. It considers whether the writing is appropriate for the target reader and effectively communicates the intended message.
- Text Structure⁚ This criterion evaluates the organization and flow of the writing. It assesses whether the text is structured logically, with clear paragraphs, transitions, and a cohesive narrative or argument.
- Ideas⁚ This criterion focuses on the quality and development of the writer’s ideas. It assesses whether the ideas are original, relevant to the prompt, and presented with sufficient detail and elaboration.
- Character and Setting (Narrative Texts)⁚ This criterion specifically applies to narrative writing and evaluates the writer’s ability to create believable and engaging characters and settings. It assesses the depth and complexity of character development and the effectiveness of setting descriptions.
- Persuasive Devices (Persuasive Texts)⁚ This criterion applies to persuasive writing and assesses the writer’s use of persuasive techniques to influence the reader. It examines the effectiveness of arguments, evidence, and rhetorical devices.
- Vocabulary⁚ This criterion evaluates the writer’s choice of words. It assesses the accuracy, precision, and range of vocabulary used, as well as the overall effectiveness of language choices.
- Cohesion⁚ This criterion examines the overall unity and coherence of the writing. It assesses the flow of ideas, the use of transitions, and the overall clarity of the text.
- Paragraphing⁚ This criterion evaluates the organization and structure of paragraphs. It assesses whether paragraphs are well-developed, focused, and contribute to the overall coherence of the text.
- Sentence Structure⁚ This criterion examines the grammatical correctness and variety of sentence structure. It assesses the use of different sentence types, the absence of grammatical errors, and the overall clarity and fluency of the writing.
- Punctuation⁚ This criterion evaluates the accuracy and effectiveness of punctuation marks. It assesses the use of commas, periods, apostrophes, and other punctuation marks to enhance clarity and readability.
- Spelling⁚ This criterion assesses the accuracy of spelling. It examines the writer’s ability to spell words correctly, including common and less common words.
The NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 provides detailed descriptions for each criterion, outlining the expectations for each level of achievement. This comprehensive framework ensures consistent and fair assessment of student writing, allowing for accurate evaluation of their writing skills and abilities.
Audience
The “Audience” criterion in the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 emphasizes the importance of tailoring writing to the intended reader. It recognizes that effective communication requires understanding the audience and adapting language, style, and content accordingly. This criterion assesses the writer’s ability to consider the audience’s age, background, interests, and knowledge level when crafting their writing.
For example, a narrative written for young children would differ significantly in style and complexity from a persuasive essay written for a scholarly audience. The former might employ simpler vocabulary, shorter sentences, and a more engaging narrative voice, while the latter would likely use more complex language, sophisticated arguments, and a formal tone.
Markers evaluate student writing based on how well the writer demonstrates awareness of their audience and adapts their writing accordingly. They look for evidence of clear, engaging language, appropriate tone, and a level of formality that aligns with the intended reader. By considering the audience, writers can ensure their message is effectively communicated and resonates with their intended readers.
Text Structure
The “Text Structure” criterion in the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 focuses on the organization and flow of a piece of writing. It recognizes that clear and logical structure is essential for effective communication. This criterion assesses the writer’s ability to present ideas in a coherent and engaging manner, using techniques such as paragraphs, headings, and transitions to guide the reader through the text.
For example, a narrative text might follow a chronological structure, presenting events in the order they occurred. A persuasive essay, on the other hand, might employ a problem-solution structure, outlining a problem and then presenting a solution. In both cases, the writer uses text structure to organize ideas and create a logical flow for the reader.
Markers evaluate student writing based on how effectively the writer uses text structure to enhance clarity and readability. They look for evidence of logical progression, clear transitions between ideas, and appropriate use of organizational techniques. By employing effective text structure, writers can ensure their ideas are presented in a clear and engaging manner, making it easier for readers to understand and follow their arguments.
Ideas
The “Ideas” criterion in the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 evaluates the substance and originality of a student’s writing. It assesses the depth, relevance, and development of the ideas presented in the text. Markers look for evidence of thoughtful consideration, insightful observations, and a clear understanding of the writing task.
For narrative writing, this criterion considers the originality and plausibility of the story’s plot, characters, and setting. Markers evaluate the effectiveness of the writer’s use of imagery, dialogue, and conflict to create a compelling and engaging narrative. For persuasive writing, the focus shifts to the strength and persuasiveness of the arguments presented. Markers assess the writer’s ability to provide logical reasoning, relevant evidence, and effective counter-arguments to support their position.
The “Ideas” criterion encourages students to explore their creativity and develop their critical thinking skills. It emphasizes the importance of presenting well-developed and engaging ideas that demonstrate a strong understanding of the writing task and the ability to connect with the reader on an intellectual and emotional level.
Character and Setting (Narrative Texts)
The “Character and Setting” criterion within the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 specifically assesses the quality of character development and the effectiveness of the setting in narrative writing. It evaluates how well the writer creates believable and relatable characters that drive the story forward. Markers consider the depth and complexity of the characters, their motivations, and how they interact with each other and the environment.
Furthermore, the criterion examines the effectiveness of the setting in contributing to the overall narrative. A well-developed setting should be vivid, engaging, and serve to enhance the story’s atmosphere and theme. Markers look for details that create a strong sense of place, whether it be a specific location, a historical period, or a fictional world. The setting should not merely be a backdrop; it should actively influence the characters’ actions and the plot’s progression.
In essence, this criterion emphasizes the importance of creating a believable and engaging narrative world that transports the reader into the story. Students are encouraged to develop their characters with nuance and depth, and to use the setting as a tool to enhance the overall impact of their writing.
Persuasive Devices (Persuasive Texts)
The “Persuasive Devices” criterion in the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 focuses on how effectively a student uses language techniques to convince their reader of a particular point of view. This criterion is specifically applied to persuasive texts, where the goal is to influence the reader’s thoughts and actions. Markers assess the student’s use of rhetorical devices, such as strong arguments, vivid imagery, emotional appeals, and logical reasoning.
Students are expected to demonstrate an understanding of how different persuasive techniques work and to apply them strategically throughout their writing. For example, effective use of evidence and statistics can bolster the credibility of an argument, while powerful anecdotes or personal experiences can evoke empathy and connect with the reader on an emotional level. Markers look for evidence of a conscious and deliberate effort to persuade, rather than simply stating opinions without supporting them.
Ultimately, this criterion aims to gauge the student’s ability to craft persuasive arguments that are both compelling and convincing. It encourages students to move beyond simply stating their position and to actively engage the reader through well-chosen persuasive techniques.
Vocabulary
The “Vocabulary” criterion in the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 assesses the student’s ability to choose words that are appropriate for the audience, purpose, and genre of the text. It’s not just about using big words, but about selecting words that are precise, evocative, and contribute to the overall clarity and impact of the writing. Markers look for a range of vocabulary, including both everyday words and more sophisticated terms, used effectively to convey meaning.
Students are encouraged to use words that are specific and descriptive rather than relying on general or vague language. For example, instead of saying “The man was angry,” a student might write, “The man’s face flushed red with rage, his fists clenched tightly.” This demonstrates a more nuanced understanding of vocabulary and its power to create vivid imagery and enhance the reader’s understanding.
Markers also consider the accuracy and appropriateness of the student’s word choices. Words should be used correctly and in context, avoiding slang or informal language unless it is appropriate for the genre and audience. Ultimately, this criterion encourages students to develop a strong vocabulary and to use it strategically to create impactful and engaging writing.
Cohesion
The “Cohesion” criterion in the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 evaluates the student’s ability to create a unified and coherent text. This means that the ideas presented in the writing flow logically and smoothly, with clear connections between sentences and paragraphs. Markers assess how effectively the student uses a variety of cohesive devices, such as linking words, pronouns, and repetition, to create a sense of unity and coherence.
A well-cohesive text is easy to follow and understand. The reader can easily see how each idea connects to the previous one, creating a clear and logical progression of thought. Students who demonstrate strong cohesion use transition words (e.g., however, therefore, furthermore) to signal relationships between ideas, use pronouns effectively to avoid repetition, and maintain a consistent point of view throughout the text.
In contrast, a poorly cohesive text may jump from one idea to another without clear connections, leaving the reader feeling confused and disoriented. A lack of cohesion can also indicate a lack of planning and understanding of the writing process. By focusing on cohesion, students develop the ability to craft texts that are not only well-written but also clear, engaging, and meaningful.
Paragraphing
The “Paragraphing” criterion within the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 assesses how effectively students use paragraphs to organize their ideas and structure their writing. A well-structured paragraph typically focuses on a single main idea, supported by relevant details and examples. Paragraphing is a crucial element of clear and effective writing, as it helps to break down large amounts of information into manageable chunks, making the text easier to read and understand.
Markers evaluate the student’s ability to use paragraphing to create a logical flow of ideas. This includes considering the length and content of each paragraph, as well as the transitions between paragraphs. Strong paragraphing demonstrates a clear understanding of how to structure a text for readability and coherence. Students who effectively use paragraphing create a sense of rhythm and pacing in their writing, guiding the reader through their ideas in a clear and organized manner.
Conversely, poorly structured paragraphs can confuse the reader and make the text difficult to follow. Paragraphs that are too long or too short, or that contain multiple unrelated ideas, can disrupt the flow of the writing and detract from the overall clarity of the text. By mastering the art of paragraphing, students learn to craft texts that are not only grammatically correct but also well-organized and engaging.
Sentence Structure
The “Sentence Structure” criterion in the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 assesses the student’s ability to construct grammatically correct and varied sentences. Effective sentence structure is crucial for clear communication and engaging writing. Markers look for sentences that are well-formed, with appropriate subject-verb agreement, correct use of tenses, and logical word order.
Students who demonstrate strong sentence structure use a variety of sentence types, including simple, compound, and complex sentences. They effectively employ conjunctions, relative clauses, and other grammatical elements to create sentences that are both grammatically correct and interesting to read. They avoid run-on sentences and fragments, which can make the text difficult to understand.
Variety in sentence structure helps to maintain the reader’s interest and create a more dynamic and engaging reading experience. Students who can skillfully manipulate sentence structure can convey their ideas more effectively, making their writing more impactful and persuasive. By focusing on sentence structure, students learn to communicate their thoughts and ideas with precision and clarity, ultimately enhancing their overall writing ability.
Punctuation
The “Punctuation” criterion within the NAPLAN Writing Marking Guide 2023 evaluates a student’s understanding and application of punctuation rules. Proper punctuation is essential for clear communication and readability. Markers assess the student’s ability to use punctuation marks correctly, including commas, full stops, question marks, exclamation marks, apostrophes, and quotation marks.
Students who demonstrate strong punctuation skills use punctuation to guide the reader through the text, separating sentences, clarifying meaning, and emphasizing key ideas. They correctly use commas to separate items in a list, to set off introductory phrases, and to indicate pauses within a sentence. They use full stops to mark the end of sentences, and they appropriately employ question marks and exclamation marks to convey different tones and emotions.
Accurate punctuation not only ensures grammatical correctness but also enhances the overall flow and comprehension of the written text. Students who master punctuation skills communicate their ideas with greater precision and clarity, making their writing more impactful and engaging for the reader. By understanding and applying punctuation rules effectively, students develop a strong foundation for effective written communication.