ABSTRACT
The assessment of learners' written work can have a range of goals. These goals can be classified under various headings. Motivating Positive feedback on the content of learners' writing can do a lot to increase the amount of writing that learners do and to improve their attitude to writing. The use of peer feedback can reduce the teacher's load but is also very valuable in helping writers develop a sense of audience. The use of self-assessment encourages met cognitive awareness of the writing process and the qualities of good writing. Feedback can focus on aspects of the written product as, for example, when marking scales are used. Feedback can be uncontrolled when spoken or written comments are given on the strengths and weaknesses of the piece of writing without the systematic coverage of a scale. Feedback can be given on the whole of a piece of writing, or on a portfolio of writing.
