Y06W08PA - How Rainwater Harvesting Works

This week you wrote an information text on how rainwater harvesting works. Now you'll read another student's text and decide how strong it is. Each module sharpens how you spot strong writing.

Part 1

The Assessor Scorecard for

Explanatory – Information text

Markers look for information texts that make ideas simple, accurate and easy to follow. Check each strand below to see what strong work looks like.

Ideas & Content

Ideas are explained fully, with steps or examples. Key information is included; off-topic detail is left out. Facts are accurate, not vague or made up.

  • Complete and accurate explanation: ideas are explained fully with accurate detail; key information is included.

Structure & Cohesion

Ideas move in a clear order the reader can track. The text often runs from introduction, to how it works, to why it matters. No random jumps between sections.

  • Clear logical progression: ideas follow a sequence that helps readers understand and remember.

Audience & Purpose

The writer thinks about what the reader already knows. Background information is given when needed. Technical words are explained, not assumed.

  • Appropriate for the target audience: background is provided; technical terms are explained.

Language Choices

Language is simple, clear and direct. Description helps the reader picture the process. Technical terms are explained the first time they appear.

  • Clear, precise and descriptive language: language is simple and direct; technical terms are explained.

Conventions

Spelling and punctuation are accurate throughout. Sentences are built carefully so meaning stays clear. Punctuation supports the reader's path through the text.

  • Accurate spelling and punctuation: conventions are correct throughout.

Part 2

Today’s Marking Targets

Task in one sentence

Write an information text explaining how rainwater harvesting works and why it is useful, clearly enough for a new reader to follow.

Let’s Focus

Two strands matter most this week: Ideas & Content and Structure & Cohesion. The information you include decides whether the reader truly understands. How you arrange it decides whether they can follow.

Ideas & Content

Strong writing this week explains the process in full. Every key step is there. Examples support each point. Information is accurate. A reader who knew nothing before reading would finish understanding the topic clearly.

What markers scan for

  • All key steps or ideas are explained.
  • Examples back up each main point.
  • Information is accurate.
  • A new reader would understand the topic after reading.

Score Bands

  • Basic

    Explanation is thin; key steps are missing; a reader would not fully understand.

  • Strong

    Explanation is complete; examples support understanding; a new reader would follow it.

  • Excellent

    Explanation is thorough and precise; examples are well-chosen; the reader gains full understanding.

Structure & Cohesion

Strong writing this week moves in a logical order. Ideas connect — the reader sees how one paragraph leads to the next. A clear introduction sets up the topic. A summary or conclusion brings it home. Nothing feels jumbled.

What markers scan for

  • The text moves logically from one idea to the next.
  • Paragraphs connect in a visible way.
  • A clear introduction and conclusion frame the text.
  • The reader can follow easily from start to end.

Score Bands

  • Basic

    Organisation is unclear; ideas jump; the reader loses track of how points link.

  • Strong

    Information is organised logically; ideas connect clearly; the reader follows easily.

  • Excellent

    Structure is sharp and seamless; the organisation itself helps the reader understand and remember.

Now read · Student sample

How Rainwater Harvesting Works and Why It Matters

Year 6 sample · \~300 words

Student sample for assessment

Written by a Year 6 student in Swan Hill, Victoria, Australia.

Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting and storing rainwater that falls on rooftops or other surfaces. Instead of letting the water run away into drains and storm systems, we capture it and save it for later use. This simple idea can make a real difference to water supplies, especially in areas where water is scarce. How the System Works Rainwater harvesting systems are not complicated. When it rains, water falls on a roof or flat surface. A gutter system channels this water into pipes that lead to a storage tank, usually a large container positioned on the ground or on a stand. The tank stores the water until it is needed. When you want to use the water, a tap on the tank allows you to access it. Many systems also include a filter that removes leaves and dirt before the water enters the storage tank. This keeps the water clean and safe for use. Why It Is Useful Rainwater harvesting helps in several ways. First, it reduces pressure on mains water supplies. In many regions, especially during droughts, water demand exceeds supply. Harvested rainwater can be used for watering gardens, washing cars, or cleaning. Second, it saves money. Using collected rainwater instead of mains water reduces water bills. Third, it is environmentally responsible. Using rainwater means less strain on rivers and groundwater reserves. Finally, in areas where mains water is not available, rainwater harvesting can be a lifeline, providing water for drinking and daily use. Rainwater Harvesting in Australia Australia is a dry country, which makes rainwater harvesting particularly valuable. Many Australian homes, schools, and farms use rainwater tanks to manage water supplies. During wet seasons, tanks fill up, storing water for dry periods. This practice has become increasingly common as awareness of water conservation grows. Conclusion Rainwater harvesting is simple, practical, and effective. By capturing and storing rain, we reduce our dependence on mains water, save money, and help protect natural water reserves. Even small-scale rainwater harvesting makes a difference.