Manly, IA- State education leaders are proposing a plan to help improve Iowa students writing skills. They are asking lawmakers to implement a writing test in 3rd, 6th and 10th grades. The test will be essay format. Iowa is one of the last state's to have a test of this kind.

Third grade teacher, Terri Heck, says many of students are nervous about the idea. Heck thinks a writing test will help prepare who students for high school and college.

"Getting kids use to taking those types of test would be good," said Heck.

Right now, the plan is to have Iowa teachers grade the tests. That's bringing up some concerns. Heck worries teachers may grade differently than others. She would like to see at clear set of standards for the grading.

Despite those concerns, Heck says practice is the only way to improve any skill.

"I think it's just getting them to write at this level more than two sentences," said Heck.

The writing test is expected to be voted on in January, when legislation is in session.