Y07W41PA - Should Single-Use Plastic Bags Be Banned?

This week you wrote a persuasive letter for or against a ban on single-use plastic bags. Now you'll read another student's letter and decide how strong it is. Looking at someone else's argument sharpens what you spot — and gives you moves to use yourself.

Part 1

The Assessor Scorecard for

Persuasive – Persuasive letter

Markers look for letters that take a clear position and back it with logical reasons. Strong writing balances reasoning with a tone that fits decision-makers.

Ideas & Content

Reasons that are specific, logical and relevant. Each reason explained — not just listed. Claims backed by evidence or example. No vague phrases like "it's better" without proof.

  • Evidence: reasons are backed by specific support.

Structure & Cohesion

An opening that states your position clearly. A body that builds reasons in logical order. A closing that reinforces the main point. No jumping between ideas or repeating the same reason.

  • Organisation: reasons build toward conclusion.

Audience & Purpose

Councillors need different choices than classmates. Show respect for the reader's role and knowledge. Writing that is informed and direct — not pleading. The writer is aware of who they are persuading.

  • Respect: tone is appropriate for decision-makers.

Language Choices

Specific verbs and active sentences. Precise terms — "impact" is stronger than "thing". No weak verbs like "is bad" or vague language. Word choice that reinforces the reasoning.

  • Precision: verbs and terms reinforce reasoning.

Conventions

Letter conventions: date, address, salutation, sign-off. Correct spelling, punctuation and grammar throughout. A pattern of errors lowers the mark — one or two does not. Format that looks professional from top to bottom.

  • Format: letter layout and few errors aid persuasion.

Part 2

Today’s Marking Targets

Task in one sentence

Write a 270–330 word letter to your council arguing for or against a permanent ban on single-use plastic bags.

Let’s Focus

Two strands matter most this week: Structure & Cohesion and Ideas & Content. Councillors need to follow your argument without confusion. They also need reasons that are specific and well-explained — vague claims won't persuade people with authority.

Structure & Cohesion

Councillors must follow your argument clearly to vote with confidence. Strong responses open with a clear position, present reasons in logical order, and close by reinforcing the main point. Excellent responses use transitions that link reasons and make the case easy to follow.

What markers scan for

  • A clear opening statement of position.
  • Reasons in a logical order — perhaps strongest first.
  • Transitions that link reasons together.
  • A closing that reinforces the main point.

Score Bands

  • Basic

    Letter states a position but reasons are disorganised; transitions are missing or weak.

  • Strong

    Letter states position clearly; 2–3 reasons follow logical order; closing reinforces the point.

  • Excellent

    Letter builds reasons in a persuasive sequence; transitions are smooth; closing invites action.

Ideas & Content

Council members need reasons that are specific and well-explained. Strong responses tie each reason to evidence or example — not just state it. Weak responses use vague phrases like "plastic bags are bad". Excellent responses show both sides of the debate and address them directly.

What markers scan for

  • Reasons that are specific and explained — not just listed.
  • Each reason includes evidence, example or detail.
  • Claims tied to the council debate, not generic.
  • Acknowledges the opposing view and addresses it.

Score Bands

  • Basic

    Reasons are stated but not explained; no awareness of the opposing view; vague claims.

  • Strong

    Reasons are specific with explanation; at least one opposing view acknowledged; claims relevant.

  • Excellent

    Reasons are specific, explained and supported; opposing views addressed directly; context clear.

Now read · Student sample

Should Single-Use Plastic Bags Be Banned?

Year 7 sample · \~250 words

Student sample for assessment

Written by a Year 7 student in Moonee Ponds, Victoria, Australia.

15 April 2026 Moonee Ponds City Council Chief Executive Officer Town Hall, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 Dear Chief Executive Officer, I am writing to support a permanent ban on single-use plastic bags in our council area. This ban is a practical step that will reduce litter in our streets and parks, and set an example for our community. Single-use plastic bags are found in nearly every landfill and waterway in Australia. When they break down, they become microplastics that harm wildlife and enter our soil. Our local parks already show signs of this damage - plastic fragments appear in bushland and around waterways. Banning these bags will reduce the amount of plastic entering our environment immediately. Some people argue that the ban is inconvenient, particularly for older residents. I understand this concern. However, supermarkets already offer affordable reusable bags, and shoppers can plan ahead. Many councils have implemented similar bans successfully. People adapt quickly when alternatives are available. In fact, shoppers in other areas report that keeping a bag in the car or at home becomes routine within weeks. A ban on single-use plastic bags also sends a clear message about environmental responsibility. When residents see that the council takes action on plastic, they are more likely to make other sustainable choices. This shifts community behaviour in positive directions. I encourage the council to move forward with the ban. The environmental benefit is clear, and the practical challenges are manageable. Our parks and waterways deserve protection, and this ban is a direct way to provide it. Yours sincerely, Zara Mitchell Resident, Moonee Ponds