Arabic Extension 2020 HSC exam pack
2020 Arabic Extension HSC exam papers
Marking guidelines
Marking guidelines are developed with the examination paper and are used by markers to guide their marking of a student's response. The table shows each question and the criteria with each mark or mark range.
Sample answers may also be developed and included in the guidelines to make sure questions assess a student's knowledge and skills, and guide the Supervisor of Marking on the expected nature and scope of a student's response. They are not intended to be exemplary or even complete answers or responses.
HSC marking feedback
Select from the link(s) below to view feedback about how students performed in this year’s examination.
Use the feedback to guide preparation for future examinations. Feedback includes an overview of the qualities of better responses. Feedback may not be provided for every question.
Feedback on practical examination
Extension – Monologue
Students should:
- use the seven minutes preparation time to prepare points which can be used to deliver a logical and coherent monologue
- state the question to which they are responding
- speak for approximately three minutes
- address all parts of the question
- adopt a point of view or stance and provide appropriate examples that link their argument to the question
- avoid solely recounting their own experiences in order to answer the question
- avoid using pre-prepared material that may be irrelevant to the question
- use a variety of vocabulary, sentence structures and expressions which are suitable to the issue addressed in the question
- provide a conclusion that is not a repetition of the introduction.
In better responses, students were able to:
- present and develop a well-structured argument by including an opening statement, body and conclusion
- structure their response in a logical manner, using relevant ideas and more than two examples related to the question
- elaborate their ideas and opinions with creativity and sophistication of language
- substantiate their argument with detailed examples addressing the underlying issues raised in the question link and sequence their ideas logically
- present a clear stance in the introduction and re-state their position in the conclusion
- use conjunctions correctly to link ideas and point(s) of view
- use rhetorical questions in their introduction
- communicate ideas confidently and fluently, with authentic intonation and pronunciation and with only minor inaccuracies
- present their argument using a range of grammatical features, appropriate vocabulary and sentence structures.
Areas for students to improve include:
- providing evidence, reasons and/or examples
- giving relevant ideas to support their argument
- avoiding the repetition of words/phrases, ideas and examples
- stating their agreement or disagreement at the beginning of their monologue
- developing a well, structured response that includes an introduction, body and conclusion
- avoiding detailed reference to the prescribed text, but rather referring to the prescribed issues
- using correct grammatical conventions, for example, Particles of Exception أدوات الإستثناء
- applying persuasive languages devices
- choosing correct vocabulary to express ideas about issues raised in the question.
Feedback on written examination
Response to Prescribed Text – Part A
Students should:
- read the whole extract before attempting to answer the questions
- read the questions carefully and address all aspects in their response
- explain the quotes given in Arabic and their significance in the relevant context rather than just translating them
- demonstrate knowledge of all the extracts for study and the whole prescribed text where required
- respond in English using their own words
- use the lines given as an indication of length of response required.
In better responses, students were able to:
- explain thoroughly how Mona used Layla as an example to inspire Huyam, for example, her love and passion for music (Q1a)
- provide an accurate translation and a thorough explanation of the statement (Q1b)
- provide a good explanation for the language used in Nahla’s opinion about music (Q1c)
- demonstrate a thorough explanation of the effects of Layla’s death on Mona’s life, for example, Mona changed her life and moved into teaching, Mona sacrificed her dream to organise a band because of Layla’s death, Mona’s relationship with Nahla changed (Q1d).
Areas for students to improve include:
- avoiding making generalisations without supporting evidence from the prescribed text (Q1d)
- retelling the events from the story without providing analysis and evaluation (Q1d)
- ensuring that they answer the question asked and not responding with irrelevant information not related to the prescribed text (Q1d).
Response to Prescribed Text – Part B
Students should:
- address all parts of the question fully
- write in the type of text as specified in the question
- address the specified purpose, context and audience of the question
- write from a particular perspective as required by the question
- demonstrate their knowledge of the chosen extract and other relevant parts of the text when responding to the question
- support their response with evidence from the text
- use their own words and avoid translating the text as part of their response.
In better responses, students were able to:
- clarify Khazma’s reasons to visit her husband’s grave
- demonstrate their understanding of Khazma’s feelings after the death of her husband, such as grief, sadness, loneliness, feeling lost, confused, revolted and shocked
- show knowledge of content and sequence of ideas
- explain how culture and tradition have affected Khazma’s life from her childhood to her married life
- use the correct form and structure of the required text type, a diary entry; date, start, feelings, use of rhetorical question (Q2).
Areas for students to improve include:
- learning to refer to the extract from the prescribed text and using the content of the story to reply
- using sophisticated vocabulary and manipulating language effectively to express Khazma’s feelings.
Writing in Arabic
Students should:
- address all aspects of the question
- write in the relevant text type required by the question
- use appropriate register throughout the response
- ensure that the content of their response is relevant to the question
- plan and sequence their response to ensure that their response is coherent
- demonstrate knowledge of vocabulary, expressions and where relevant, idiomatic language related to the issues prescribed for study
- support their argument, point of view or opinion with relevant ideas and information
- manipulate the language authentically and creatively with correct use of grammar and syntax to meet the requirements of the task
- use the dictionary to choose appropriate word, expression or phrase for the context, purpose and audience of the question
- ensure there is enough time to edit their work.
In better responses, students were able to:
- use the correct text type
- present a coherent argument and present appropriate examples to support a point of view, such as happiness starts from the inner self, money and friends do not provide happiness
- use language which engages the audience.
Areas for students to improve include:
- using formal Arabic language
- using appropriate and relevant short examples to strengthen and support their argument and avoid telling a story or one incident from the student’s life
- proofreading the response to avoid grammatical mistakes and increase accuracy.
HSC exam resources
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Arabic Beginners syllabus
Find out more about the Arabic Extension syllabus.
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