NJSLA/PARCC Writing Rubrics Overview
The New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA/PARCC) evaluates students in grades 3-11 using computer-based writing assessments. New Jersey's writing assessment is administered online each spring and measures three distinct writing task types based on Common Core State Standards.
Key Details:
- Grades (rubric coverage): 3-11
- Administration: Spring (once yearly)
- Format: Computer-based with text-based prompts
- Writing Types: Research Simulation Task (RST), Literary Analysis Task (LAT), and Narrative Task (NT)
- Grade Bands: 3, 4-5, and 6-11
- Scoring: Grade 3 uses 0–3; Grades 4–11 use 0–4.
- Assessment programs: NJSLA (3–9), NJGPA (11)
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Official NJSLA/PARCC Writing Rubrics
How to Score Writing Using NJSLA Writing Rubrics
New Jersey's NJSLA writing rubrics use a comprehensive scoring system across two main domains. Teachers score each domain separately, with responses earning scores by demonstrating the descriptors outlined in each score point.
- For RST and LAT Tasks:
- Reading Comprehension and Written Expression: Demonstrates comprehension through accurate analysis; addresses prompt with effective development appropriate to task, purpose, and audience; uses clear reasoning supported by relevant, text-based evidence; shows effective organization with clear and coherent writing; uses language effectively to clarify ideas.
- Knowledge of Language and Conventions: Command of standard English conventions at appropriate complexity level; grammar, mechanics, and usage that support meaning and clarity.
- For Narrative Writing Tasks:
- Written Expression: Effective development with narrative elements appropriate to task; effective organization with clear and coherent writing; uses language effectively to clarify ideas
- Knowledge of Language and Conventions: Command of standard English conventions at appropriate complexity level; grammar, mechanics, and usage that support meaning and clarity
NJSLA/PARCC Rubric Score Points
Note: These are rubric score points (0-4), separate from test performance levels (1-5).
NJSLA/PARCC Writing Task Differences by Type
Literary Analysis Task (LAT)
Literary Analysis Tasks focus on close reading and analysis of literary texts:
- Students analyze one or more literary texts, often two
- Develop claims about literary elements, themes, or author's craft
- Support analysis with specific evidence from the text
- Demonstrate understanding of literary techniques and meanings
- Focus on analytical writing about literature
Research Simulation Task (RST)
Research Simulation Tasks require students to analyze and synthesize information from multiple sources:
- Students read 2-3 sources on a topic
- Develop claims supported by evidence from sources
- Demonstrate understanding through explanation and analysis
- Use relevant text-based evidence from the sources
- Focus on informational/explanatory writing
Narrative Writing Task (NT)
Narrative Tasks allow students to demonstrate creative writing skills:
- Students write original stories based on prompts
- Develop characters, setting, and plot elements
- Use narrative techniques like dialogue, pacing, and description
- Organize events in logical sequence
NJSLA Test Performance Levels
Note: These are overall test performance levels (1-5) used for state reporting, which are different from individual rubric score points (0-4). Test performance levels combine multiple rubric scores across all assessment components.
Official NJSLA/PARCC Resources
Writing Practice Items (by grade) - Paper practice test booklets that include the PCR writing prompt(s).
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Frequently Asked Questions About NJSLA Writing Rubric
Common questions teachers ask about the NJSLA rubric. Contact us if you don't see your question answered below.
Yes. New Jersey uses the PARCC-lineage NJSLA writing rubric across grade bands (3; 4–5; 6–11). The official PDF posted by NJ shows the same trait structure and score points teachers know from the PARCC writing rubric.
No. The NJSLA narrative writing rubric scores Written Expression and Knowledge of Language & Conventions only; the reading dimension is not scored for elicited narratives. This is stated in the official rubric document.
Yes. For high school, NJ directs educators to use the NJSLA-ELA Grades 6–11 rubrics when scoring NJGPA writing tasks (same framework/traits). The NJDOE portfolio guidance explicitly references using NJSLA-ELA Grades 6–11 rubrics.
Unscorable responses use condition codes (e.g., A = no response; B = unintelligible; C = not in English; D = off-topic; E = refusal; F = “don’t understand/know”). These are defined in the state rubric packet and help explain when a response receives no score.
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