Assessing writing

Writing is not such an obvious skill to assess. Whereas reading comprehension is more about 'correct information', roughly speaking a tick per point made, this is not the case with writing. In this blog, I share a list of criteria by which you can assess you own writing and that of others. I also share with you the inspiration of three students who submitted their responses to the describe-a-fruit writing challenge. As well as satisfying the basic criteria, they include a number of techniques that elevate them from simply 'correct' to truly OUTSTANDING. But first, I share with you the criteria to look out for.

The following questions can be used to assess your own writing, or for another person to assess your writing. Put on your 'examiner's hat' and ask yourself:

Is it basically correct?

·       Is it legible? (don’t worry if your handwriting is a bit scruffy, but it must be legible)

·       Is it an adequate length? (in the case of the 'fruit' assignment, approximately half a side of A4)

·       Is it relevant to the title?

·       Is the Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar (SPaG) mostly correct?

Does it demonstrate outstanding qualities?

·       Does it start and end in a suitable and interesting way?

·       Is there a good range of vocabulary?

·       Are there any special writing techniques? (similes, personification, sensory language etc.)

·       Has the writer skilfully used different sentence types and punctuation to enhance the effect of the words?

·       Overall, does it make a powerful impact? Were you drawn in?

To become good at this, look out for these qualities when reading, and experiment with new ideas in your own writing. Inspiration for what to write about can be found in your everyday life and by observing the world around you. Keeping a journal of ideas is a way great way to start.

Without further ado, I now announce the winning pieces. They're not perfect but each has moments of greatness that leave me with the overall impression that this student can write.

The following student wrote their answer in the form of a poem:

Now assess your own writing in the same way, then treat yourself to a nice big bowl of juicy fruit!