KS3 and KS4 Discursive/ Persuasive Writing Checklist

I use this checklist with KS3 and KS4. It's an effective tool to help students focus on the basic components of effective discursive/ persuasive writing.

It incorporates the principles of Assessment for Learning with an emphasis on self and peer evaluation. The 'Y' column stands for 'You' (the student), the 'P' column stands for 'Peer'.

I use a simple code of a Tick if it fully meets the criteria. A 1/2 mark if it only partially meets it and an X if it doesn't meet it. Students find this straightforward to use. I get them to paste in the checklist next to their written work as evidence of effective AFL.

There is a space at the bottom for the peer assessor to write a TICK (what went well) and a TARGET for improvement.
The resource can be double sided – there is an explanation, with examples of AFOREST on the reverse side with an example of a student brainstorm/ introduction which the students can evaluate/ annotate should you wish.

There is an equivalent checklist for creative writing which is also available for download.