Application
This unit describes the skills required to perform routine written communication. It includes extracting meaning from routine written information for workplace purposes and preparing routine written materials. The focus is on the content and structure of written materials and not on the use of computer technology, which is addressed by other competencies.
This unit applies to those working in generalist or specialist roles within the public sector.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.
Those undertaking this unit would work in teams or autonomously, performing routine tasks in a familiar context.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Read, interpret and act on routine written materials | 1.1 Determine intended recipients and purpose of incoming written materials with assistance from others. 1.2 Identify and use key points to record, store or forward incoming materials. 1.3 Use information from tables, charts and other graphic information to plan and organise work. 1.4 Read and follow procedural information to implement workplace routines or remedy problems. 1.5 Seek assistance with difficult or ambiguous materials. |
2. Prepare routine written materials | 2.1 Confirm and follow requirements of written materials in accordance with standard templates. 2.2 Include information that is accurate, clear and concise and meets organisational guidelines for the type of document. 2.3 Check material to ensure correct grammar, spelling and punctuation, and to correct any inaccuracies in content. 2.4 Present written information in accordance with organisational standards for format and accuracy. 2.5 Prepare and submit written information for approval/final editing within required timeframes. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
reading and writing at a level to cope with routine workplace materials
identifying key messages in written information
writing and sequencing paragraphs according to the required purpose of written material
linking ideas in written material through selection and use of words, language structures and punctuation appropriate to the purpose
spelling, punctuation and grammar for workplace documents at a practical level
implementing ergonomic requirements for office work
complying with environmental policies, including those relating to paper use/wastage/recycling
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
public sector legislation including work health and safety and environment
regulations, policies, procedures and guidelines relating to written materials, including privacy, freedom of information, information security, confidentiality, copyright
organisational policy for recordkeeping
principles of effective written communication
differences between requirements for written as opposed to spoken English
government style manual/writing guide
organisational writing/formatting guidelines
organisation processes and protocols
email protocols and records management
Assessment Conditions
This unit contains no specific industry-mandated assessment conditions. Guidance on suggested and recommended conditions and methods can be found in the Implementation Guide.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
Foundation skills are embedded within the elements and performance criteria of this unit.
Competency Field
General