This downloadable PDF resource has been written in response to requests from teachers for material to help their students practise for NAPLAN* (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy) tests well in advance of the actual tests in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. Many teachers would like the opportunity to familiarise their students with the format and likely content of the tests the year before their students take the test. Students who have had this preparation are more likely to succeed, and find the test less stressful, than if they have had little or no pre-test preparation.

Maximising Test Results: Preparing for NAPLAN* Year 8 Writing is designed to assist teachers prepare their Year 8 students for the Year 9 NAPLAN* tests. This resource provides students with a step-by-step guide through a range of writing tasks in each of the three focus areas – narrative, informative and persuasive.

Included are detailed explanations of the purpose, structure, language features and text types of these genres. Also included are annotated sample responses to a range of topics in the different genres, along with hints and tips for teachers and students. An extensive glossary provides definitions of commonly used language features and techniques (the first occurrence of each word is bolded in the text).

* This is not an officially endorsed publication of the NAPLAN program and is produced by Blake Education independently of Australian Governments.