Hindi Continuers 2014 HSC exam pack (archive)

Conversation

Characteristics of better responses:

• candidates spoke fluently, confidently and spontaneously
• correct grammar, tenses and a variety of complex sentence structures were used
• 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 was used
• standard language of study was used.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• simple, short sentences or single words were used
• repetition and/or extended pauses were a feature
• grammatical errors were included
• 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.

Discussion

Characteristics of better responses:

• candidates had chosen a topic which allowed in-depth research and scope to propose and articulate a point of view
• the texts chosen to support the topic of discussion were appropriate and these were used consistently to support their point of view
• processes involved in obtaining information were discussed
• a thorough understanding of the topic and the researched information was demonstrated
• at least three texts, one of which was a literary text, were included
• sophisticated language was used.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• the choice of topic did not allow for in-depth discussion
• appropriate reference to texts was not made
• candidates relied on general knowledge, personal experience and/or superficial information
• an opinion or point of view was not expressed
• texts and research were not linked to the topic
• there was a lack of evidence of research.