Arabic Extension 2021 HSC exam pack

In 2021, due to COVID-19, the HSC examinations for some courses were cancelled or the requirements adjusted, and no HSC feedback is available.

Please refer to marking feedback previously published for this component.

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 the response
• explain the quotes given in Arabic and their significance in the relevant context rather than translating them
• demonstrate knowledge of all the extracts for study and the whole prescribed text where required
• respond in English using their own words.

In better responses, students were able to:

• explain Captain Kelly’s view of the life of sailors instead of translating from the extract (Q1a)
• clearly and accurately identify why Captain Kelly compares himself to a seashell (Q1b)
• provide an explanation of why Captain Kelly makes the statement at the end of the conversation (Q1c)
• demonstrate an understanding and provide reference to how the concept of change is explored in the extract and the whole short story (Q1d).

Areas for students to improve include:

• avoiding translating straight from the extract and making generalisations without supporting evidence
• retelling the events from the story without providing analysis and evaluation
• ensuring they answer the question asked and not responding with irrelevant information
• referring to the whole story when asked, not just to the extract provided.

Response to Prescribed Text – Part B

Students should:

• address all parts of the question
• write in the type of text as specified in the question
• address the specified context, purpose and audience of the question
• write from a particular perspective as required by the question
• demonstrate knowledge of the chosen extract and other relevant parts of the text when responding to the question
• support the response with evidence from the text
• use their own words in the response.

In better responses, students were able to:

• write and use the correct form and structure of the required text type
• explain why Samih wanted to meet with Soumayah and give supporting evidence
• demonstrate an understanding and provide evidence from the short story
• demonstrate knowledge of content, manipulate language creatively and organise their ideas to meet the requirements of the task.

Areas for students to improve include:

• referring to events in the short story
• reading the question thoroughly and responding, adhering to the word limit required
• using language to address the requirement of the task.

Writing in Arabic

Students should:

• address all aspects of the question
• write in the relevant text type as specified in the question
• use appropriate register consistently throughout the response
• ensure that the content of their response is relevant to the question
• plan and sequence the response to ensure it is coherent
• demonstrate knowledge of vocabulary, expressions and where relevant, idiomatic language related to the issues prescribed for study
• support the 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 the appropriate word, expression or phrase for the context, purpose and audience of the question
• proofread and edit their work.

In better responses, students were able to:

• use the correct text type
• justify their point of view by presenting appropriate examples and evidence
• engage the audience and write effectively for a specific purpose and context
• present a coherent argument with sophistication of vocabulary and sentence structures.

Areas for students to improve include:

• using Modern Standard Arabic and avoiding colloquial Arabic
• using appropriate and relevant short examples to strengthen and support the argument
• avoiding telling a story
• proofreading the response to avoid grammatical mistakes and increase accuracy
• planning the response and structuring their ideas coherently.