The NSW Selective writing test explained (with sample responses)
Writing is where many capable children quietly lose marks — not because their ideas are weak, but because the response isn't structured the way markers reward. This guide shows you exactly what's assessed, with a worked sample you can learn from.
What the writing task assesses
Your child responds to a prompt in a set time. It's part of the wider selective test — see the complete guide for how it fits with reading, mathematical reasoning and thinking skills. Markers reward a clear, well-organised response that stays on topic and shows control of language.
Text types to prepare
- Persuasive — argue a position with reasons and examples
- Narrative — tell a focused story with a clear beginning, middle and end
- Informative — explain or describe clearly and logically
Children who have practised all three aren't thrown by whichever prompt appears — a big advantage when the clock is running.
What markers look for
Marking criteria centre on four things:
- Ideas & content — on-topic, developed, with specific examples (not vague generalities)
- Structure — a clear introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion, with paragraphing and flow
- Vocabulary — varied, precise word choice (avoiding repetition)
- Spelling, grammar & punctuation — accurate control
A worked sample response
Prompt (persuasive): "Should students have homework?"
Homework is one of the most valuable habits a young student can build, and I believe it should stay.
Firstly, homework turns a single lesson into lasting learning. When Maya practised her times tables for ten minutes each night, the maths that once frightened her became automatic — and her confidence in class grew with it. Practice is what moves knowledge from "just heard it" to "know it".
Secondly, homework quietly teaches responsibility. Deciding when to start, planning around soccer training, and finishing on time are skills that matter long after primary school. A child who manages a weekly homework routine is learning to manage themselves.
Homework should be purposeful, not endless — but used well, it builds both skill and character. For those reasons, homework deserves a place in every primary student's week.
Why this response works
- Clear position stated up front and restated at the end
- Two developed reasons, each with a specific example (Maya, soccer training) rather than vague claims
- Proper paragraphing — intro, two body paragraphs, conclusion
- Varied vocabulary and a confident closing line
Get instant AI feedback on your child's writing
Submit a response and receive a rubric score, comments tied to what they actually wrote, and an improved rewrite to learn from.
Try the writing task free →How to improve fast
- Fix structure first. Teach the intro / body / conclusion shape until it's automatic.
- Swap vague for specific. Replace "it helps a lot" with a concrete example.
- Grow vocabulary in context. Collect strong words from reading and reuse them.
- Write to time, weekly. Little and often beats occasional marathons.
- Get feedback, not just a score. Knowing why a piece scored what it did is what drives improvement.
Common questions
How long is the writing task?
It's a timed response — practising under time is essential so planning and writing fit the window.
Which text type should we focus on?
Prepare persuasive, narrative and informative — the prompt varies, so all-round readiness is safest.
How is writing marked?
Against criteria for ideas, structure, vocabulary and spelling/grammar/punctuation. Our AI feedback mirrors this so your child sees exactly where to improve.