• There are two writing prompts that target different purposes and forms of writing to give a range of evidence for the writing level. 
• There are 8 aspects of writing, called writing assessment focuses, which are used to assess children’s ability.  
• At Key Stage 1 the type of writing is specified but the choice of subject matter is left to teacher. In 2004 the long task is a recount and the short task an invitation.
• At Key Stage 2 there is no choice, children are required to write both a longer and shorter piece in response to given prompts. 

At KS2 teachers are told to note that children are expected to follow the prompt carefully, especially in content and form. Children who write on a different topic or in another form will not be credited with any marks for composition and effect. Those children who do not maintain the form throughout will not have access to the full range of marks for composition and effect. 
The optional SATs were also changed in 2003. For more information about these follow this link:
http://www.qca.org.uk/ages3-14/tests_tasks/115.html

If you want some practical ideas for assessing and teaching the different forms of writing in different subject areas see our training course: 'Making Links. Creative ways of teaching literacy across the curriculum'.  Follow this link for further details:
http://www.literacymatters.com/training.html

Readathon 
Readathon is an ongoing initiative through which children undertake to read books, or do other literacy-based activities, in return for pledges of money from family and friends. All money raised is split between The Roald Dahl Foundation and Sargent Cancer Care for Children. Participating groups are provided with sponsor forms, display materials and a teachers' guide, containing instructions, ideas and suggested activities. Tel: 01608 730335.  
www.readathon.org.  

Organisations & Links

Booktrust  
Booktrust is a charity which promotes reading, and is an independent voice for readers. It coordinates the books for babies project known as 'Bookstart' and produces a wide range of information and publications for readers both old and young. Booktrust administers many literary prizes, including the Booker, the Orange Prize for Fiction and the Smarties Children's Book Award.  
Contact: Booktrust, Book House, 45 East Hill, London SW18 2QZ. Tel: 020 8516 2977; Book information service: 020 8516 2984. www.booktrust.org.uk

Books and Beyond  
Books and Beyond promotes reading as a leisure activity and works with schools to promote reading in the home. 
Contact: Mike Lambert. Director, Regional Primary centre, School of Education, University of Wolverhampton, Gorway Road, Walsall, WS1 3BD Tel: 01902 322 866 Fax: 01902 322 867. www.npt.org.uk   

Reading Is Fundamental, UK (RIF, UK)  
Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) was established thirty years ago in the United States. Based on the American model, RIF,UK was launched in June 1996 by the National Literacy Trust with Tate & Lyle plc as its major sponsor. RIF aims to help children grow up loving books and reading and to help parents become more involved with their children's reading. It provides books for children to choose and own at no cost to them or their families.   
Contact: RIF, UK, Swire House, 59 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AJ. Tel: 020 7828 2435. Fax: 020 7931 9986. Email: contact@literacytrust.org.uk. Or visit the RIF, UK website: www.rif.org.uk.