Markers look for letters that state a clear request, give solid reasons, and follow the right format. Check each strand below to see what strong work looks like.
Structure & Cohesion
The letter follows the standard format — date, greeting, body, closing.
Ideas move in a logical order through the body.
No parts of the format are missing or jumbled.
-
Conventional letter format: the letter follows standard formal structure (date, greeting, body, closing).
Conventions
Spelling, punctuation and grammar are accurate throughout.
The greeting uses correct punctuation — "Dear ...,".
The closing uses correct punctuation — "Yours sincerely,".
-
Accurate spelling, punctuation and letter format: all conventions are correct, including greeting and closing punctuation.
Audience & Purpose
Strong writing this week sounds respectful and calm. The writer appeals to reason, not anger. Language suits the reader's role and authority. The request comes across as trustworthy — the kind a decision-maker would act on.
What markers scan for
- The recipient is addressed with respect.
- The tone stays calm, not angry or pleading.
- The writer appeals to logic and shared values.
- The letter sounds like a decision-maker would act on it.
Score Bands
-
Basic
Tone is too casual or emotional; the writer does not weigh the reader's view.
-
Strong
Tone is respectful and calm; the writer appeals to reason and shared values.
-
Excellent
Tone is dignified throughout; the writer shows clear awareness of the reader's role.
Conventions
Strong writing this week follows the full formal letter format. Date, greeting, body paragraphs and closing all appear correctly. Spelling and punctuation are accurate. The greeting ends with a comma. The closing reads "Yours sincerely,".
What markers scan for
- Date, greeting, body and closing all in place.
- Spelling and punctuation accurate throughout.
- Greeting punctuated correctly — "Dear ...,".
- Closing punctuated correctly — "Yours sincerely,".
Score Bands
-
Basic
Format parts are missing or wrong; spelling and punctuation errors are frequent.
-
Strong
Format is complete and correct; spelling and punctuation are accurate throughout.
-
Excellent
Format is flawless; conventions are perfect; the letter could be sent without changes.
Student sample for assessment
Written by a Year 6 student in Moorabbin, Victoria, Australia.
15 April 2026
Mr James Chen Principal Moorabbin Primary School Moorabbin VIC 3189 Dear Mr Chen, I am writing to request that our school install more water fountains in the outdoor areas. Currently, only two fountains serve the entire school during lunch and recess. On warm days, the queue is so long that many students do not have time to drink water before the bell rings. This matters for student health and concentration. When students are thirsty, they cannot focus properly in their afternoon classes. Without adequate water access, students risk dehydration, especially during sport and physical education. The Department of Education recommends that schools provide accessible drinking water to support student wellbeing. I have observed that the space near the basketball courts would be ideal for an additional fountain, and the area near the year 5 and 6 classrooms would also benefit from one. Adding two more fountains would significantly reduce waiting times and ensure all students can hydrate when they need to. I believe this is a practical improvement that would enhance our school environment and support student health. I would be grateful if you would consider this request and let me know your thoughts. Yours sincerely, Alex Patterson Year 6 Student
