Structure & Cohesion
A greeting, then context, then suggestions, then closing.
Each paragraph holds one suggestion with its reason.
A closing that thanks the reader and ends the letter.
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Clear structure that: guides the reader through each suggestion.
Conventions
Correct date, greeting, and sign-off on the page.
Spelling and punctuation that don't break the formal tone.
A pattern of mistakes lowers the mark — one or two does not.
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Formal letter conventions: (date, greeting, signature) used correctly.
Audience & Purpose
Strong writing this week speaks to the canteen manager with respect. Suggestions are framed as helpful ideas, not complaints. Each one shows how students would benefit. The writer treats the manager as someone who can act on the advice.
What markers scan for
- Look at the greeting and how each problem is framed.
- Notice how each suggestion includes a clear reason.
- Check the closing for respect and a clear purpose.
Score Bands
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Basic
Addresses a reader but tone is uneven or suggestions feel disconnected.
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Strong
Holds a professional tone; suggestions are specific and helpful.
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Excellent
Professional tone throughout; suggestions show clear understanding of the reader.
Conventions
Strong writing this week uses correct letter format and accurate spelling. The date, greeting, and sign-off must all be right. Common misspellings — like "sutdents" for "students" — break the formal tone. Punctuation in long sentences should be careful too.
What markers scan for
- Check the date and address format at the start.
- Look at the greeting and the sign-off carefully.
- Watch spelling, especially in common words.
- Check punctuation in longer sentences.
Score Bands
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Basic
Attempts letter format but has many spelling or punctuation mistakes.
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Strong
Follows letter format; writing is mostly accurate with minor slips.
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Excellent
Correct format and accurate writing; nothing distracts from the message.
Student sample for assessment
Written by a Year 6 student in Altona, Victoria, Australia.
15 April 2026 Canteen Manager School Canteen
Dear Canteen Manager, I am writing to share feedback about the new online ordering system. Thank you for asking sutdents to suggest improvements. I have two ideas that I believe would help. First, many sutdents find the delivery times confusing. The system does not clearly show how long orders take to arrive. I suggest adding a simple timer or clear message that tells students exactly how many minutes their order will take. This would help sutdents plan their lunch breaks better and reduce waiting time frustration. Second, I have noticed that the payment system is difficult, it asks students to enter payment information every time they order. I think students would order more regularly if they could save their payment details securely. This would make ordering faster and easier for students. Thank you for considering these suggestions. I am confident that these changes would improve the system for students and help your canteen work better. I hope to see these improvements soon. Sincerely, Year 6 Student