Format

The TOWA is a timed, secure online writing test.  Candidates have 10 minutes to read the test instructions and consider the writing tasks.  They then have 60 minutes to respond to the two writing tasks.

TOWA aims to assess the ability of students to write effectively to two prompts, each of which addresses a distinct genre:

  • Report and
  • Argument

Task A is a Report task that requires students to comprehend, select, organise and present clearly a summary report based on facts, figures and pictures presented in the stimulus.

Task B is an Argument task that requires students to develop a point of view about an issue and structure a clear, coherent and logical argument in support of that view.  This type of writing is most readily described as persuasive writing but also requires the transmittal of information.