TSA Writing Test

To complement the published tests that are scored by TSA, schools can now order writing prompts that are then returned to TSA for marking.  Schools must use one or more of the prompts developed by ACER.

Writing Prompts
Process
Marking
Reports
Cost
How to Order

Writing Prompts

Writing prompts are generally suitable for years 5-9.

Narrative Writing Prompt

  • 2 prompts suitable for Upper Primary (Years 5-6)/Lower Secondary (Years 6-7)
  • 2 prompts suitable for Middle Secondary (Years 8-9)

Persuasive Writing Prompt

  • 2 prompts suitable for Upper Primary (Years 5-6)/Lower Secondary (Years 6-7)
  • 2 prompts suitable for Middle Secondary (Years 8-9)

Process

TSA emails the school:

  • pdf of writing prompt
  • pdf of answer booklet
  • pdf of administrative guidelines

School:

  • prints off writing prompt (in colour if possible) and answer booklet.
  • administers and supervises the TSA Writing Test(s).
  • returns completed tests to TSA for marking.

Marking

  • Writing is marked by independent and experienced professional markers
  • Student writing is assessed by:
    • Content
      • narrative - ability to develop a story line, character development, control of writing style
      • persuasive  - ability to write a coherent argument, persuade audience
    • Language
      • structure, grammar, sentence construction
    • Spelling

Reports

Schools are provided with:

  • raw score for content
  • raw score for language
  • raw score for spelling
  • level for content, language and spelling
  • descriptors for each level
  • histogram displaying distribution of levels

Sample report (Narrative)

Sample report (Persuasive)

Cost

$13.20 per student per prompt (GST inclusive)

Includes

  • Electronic provision of prompt(s)
  • Electronic provision of administrative guidelines
  • Electronic provision of answer booklet
  • Electronic provision of results – pdf format

How to Order

Download and Complete a School Order Form.