How the NAPLAN Writing Test Works
Each year, students are given a single writing prompt. They must produce either a narrative (story) or a persuasive (argument) text. The genre is revealed on the day — students do not know in advance which one they will get.
Year 3 students complete the writing test on paper. Years 5, 7 and 9 type their response on a computer using a simple word processor with no spell-check or grammar tools.
Narrative Writing
In a narrative prompt, students are asked to write a story. Markers assess:
- Audience: Does the writing engage the reader?
- Text structure: Effective orientation, complication and resolution
- Ideas: Creativity, originality and development of plot and characters
- Character and setting: Are characters and the setting well-described?
- Vocabulary: Use of descriptive and precise language
- Cohesion: Smooth flow between sentences and paragraphs
- Paragraphing: Correct use of paragraphs to organise ideas
- Sentence structure: Variety of simple, compound and complex sentences
- Punctuation: Correct use of full stops, commas, quotation marks, etc.
- Spelling: Accurate spelling of words appropriate to the year level
Persuasive Writing
In a persuasive prompt, students argue for or against a position. The same ten marking criteria apply, but with a focus on:
- A clear thesis statement or contention
- Well-structured arguments with supporting evidence or examples
- Use of persuasive devices (rhetorical questions, emotive language, repetition)
- Counter-arguments (acknowledging the opposing view)
- A strong conclusion that reinforces the position
How Writing Is Marked
Each piece of writing is scored against 10 criteria on a scale of 0 to 5 or 0 to 6, depending on the criterion and year level. Two markers assess each paper to ensure reliability. The total raw score is converted to a NAPLAN scale score.
Tips for Both Genres
- Spend 5 minutes planning before you write
- Leave 3–5 minutes at the end to proofread
- Use a range of sentence types to keep the writing interesting
- Choose vocabulary carefully — avoid repetition
- Practise both genres so you're ready for either prompt
Related Guides
- NAPLAN Reading Guide — comprehension strategies
- NAPLAN Numeracy Guide — maths topics by year
- Year 5 NAPLAN Guide — writing expectations for Year 5