Croatian Continuers 2016 HSC exam pack (archive)

Characteristics of better responses:

• candidates spoke fluently, confidently and spontaneously
• candidates provided appropriate and extended responses to the questions asked
• candidates used correct grammar and tenses, as well as a variety of complex sentence structures
• language was manipulated to address the questions asked
• a range of vocabulary appropriate to the topic was used
• candidates spoke in the correct register
• candidates expressed an opinion and/or justified a point of view
• authentic intonation and pronunciation were used
• standard language of study was used.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• simple, short sentences or single words were used
• repetitive and/or extended pauses were a feature
• grammatical errors were more than minor
• candidates could not express an opinion or justify a point of view
• candidates included English words and expressions
• language was not manipulated to address the question.

Characteristics of better responses:

• candidates chose a topic that allowed in-depth research
• a point of view was proposed and articulated
• candidates chose topics where a variety of sources were readily accessible
• sources were selected that presented different perspectives
• texts were appropriate and were used consistently to support the point of view
• the processes involved in obtaining information were discussed
• candidates analysed how the texts presented the topic and compared the various perspectives
• at least three texts, one of which was a literary text, were used
• sophisticated language structures and grammatical accuracy were a feature
• candidates reflected, evaluated and analysed research.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• the choice of topic did not allow for in-depth discussion
• appropriate references to texts were not made
• there was an over-reliance on general or superficial knowledge or personal experience
• an opinion or point of view was not expressed
• texts and research were not linked to the topic
• at least 3 texts, one of which was a literary text, were not included.

Characteristics of better responses:

• most language features were recognised using the correct terminology and correct examples from the text were identified
• a wide range of appropriate vocabulary, grammar and relevant details from the text were included.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• the content of the text was recounted or translated without answering the question
• the response was not supported with examples
• the relevance of the language used and its effect on meaning was not explained
• appropriate reference to the text was not included.

Characteristics of better responses:

• all relevant details were included in the answers and specific reference to the text was made
• the response was structured according to the requirement of the question
• understanding of the whole stimulus text was shown
• language was manipulated creatively using appropriate idioms
• candidates used their own words to show understanding of text.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• specific details demonstrating understanding of text were not provided
• the response lacked elaboration
• stimulus material was repeated in the response
• responses lacked creativity
• a limited vocabulary was used
• the correct text type was not used.

Characteristics of better responses:

• the appropriate text type was used
• opinions were expressed creatively
• a depth of knowledge of grammar was demonstrated
• a range of interesting and appropriate vocabulary and language features were used.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• appropriate sequencing of ideas and text structure was lacking
• grammar and spelling errors were included
• responses included limited ideas and content.