What is the best way to use a NAPLAN writing practice test?

The most effective method is the '5-30-5' rule. Set a timer for 40 minutes: use the first 5 minutes for planning your ideas, the next 30 minutes for writing the text, and the final 5 minutes for editing and checking spelling.

Are these NAPLAN writing prompts official?

While we provide links to official past papers where available, our custom writing prompts are designed by educators to strictly match ACARA's style, ensuring students practice with realistic 2026-aligned stimulus materials.

Is the Year 5 NAPLAN writing test online or on paper?

For 2026, the Year 5 NAPLAN writing test remains a handwritten assessment on paper. Students in Years 7 and 9 will complete their writing test online using a computer.

What are the marking criteria for NAPLAN writing?

NAPLAN writing is marked on 10 specific criteria: Audience, Text Structure, Ideas, Character & Setting (or Persuasive Devices), Vocabulary, Cohesion, Paragraphing, Sentence Structure, Punctuation, and Spelling.

How is Year 9 writing different from Year 3?

While the prompt may be similar, Year 9 students are expected to demonstrate 'authorial voice,' complex sentence structures, and sophisticated vocabulary. Year 3 students are assessed on basic text structure and simple sentence formation.

NAPLAN Writing Prompt#3 (Year 7/9): The Last Minute

Practice Test Instructions:

Introduction & Learning Objectives

Focus: Creative structure, persuasive techniques, and grammatical precision.

Description: Students will demonstrate their ability to compose a cohesive text based on a NAPLAN writing prompt. This practice test evaluates the use of text structure (Introduction, Body, Conclusion), vocabulary choices, and the logical flow of ideas to engage a specific audience. Refer key assessment areas in NAPLAN writing.

Practice Test Instructions

Welcome to the Writing section of the interactive NAPLAN practice test. In this section, you will be presented with a "Stimulus" (a prompt) that includes an image and a set of ideas. You must use this prompt to write either a Narrative (story) or a Persuasive (opinion) piece. You can find more writing prompts in writing hub under topic wise practice page. You can refer past NAPLAN papers for more understanding.

What to Expect

The Stimulus: You will see one image and a topic title. Study the image carefully as it provides clues for your writing.
The Genre: You will be told whether to write a story to entertain or an argument to convince.
Writing Space: Use the provided text area to type your response. Ensure you use "Enter" to create clear paragraphs.
Checklist: A reminder list is provided on the prompt to help you remember to include a beginning, middle, and end.

Tips for Success

Please refer simple tips to plan, write, and polish your response for NAPLAN success.

Timing

This section mimics the 40-minute NAPLAN limit. We recommend the 5-30-5 Rule:

5 Minutes: Planning and Brainstorming.
30 Minutes: Continuous Writing.
5 Minutes: Editing and Proofreading.

Get ready! Take a deep breath, look at the prompt, and let your creativity flow.

Genre: Narrative (Storytelling)

Topic: The Last Minute

You have exactly one minute to make a decision that will change everything.

NAPLAN Year 7 and 9 Writing Practice Test prompt

Write a story based on the idea of a critical countdown.

Think about:

Characters: The characters and where they are.
Complication: The complication or problem to be solved.
Resolution: How does the story end?

Remember to:

Plan your story before you start writing.
Write in sentences.
Use paragraphs to separate your ideas.
Check and edit your writing.
Pay attention to your spelling, punctuation and paragraphs.

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