Heritage Korean 2016 HSC exam pack (archive)

Characteristics of better responses:

• the discussion of the chosen topic included a thorough analysis of information, ideas and experiences, using a variety of sources from a range of contexts
• detailed and perceptive references to the texts studied, including information on their reliability and usefulness, were made
• candidates connected their research findings to their ideas and experiences
• points of view were justified and supported with examples
• candidates actively participated in the interview and engaged effectively and consistently with the examiner without hesitation or pauses
• information and ideas were presented with a high level of grammatical accuracy, a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and a high level of fluency and correct pronunciation.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• basic information or common knowledge without evidence of research was presented and the chosen topic was treated superficially
• candidates appeared unprepared or used rote-learnt responses that had little relevance to the question being asked
• candidates made few or limited references to the texts studied
• information was presented with a low level of grammatical accuracy and with many pauses
• incomplete sentences and/or a mixture of formal and informal forms and some English vocabulary were used.

Characteristics of better responses:

• a perceptive understanding of the texts was demonstrated, with appropriate examples provided to support answers
• the email was conveyed accurately by manipulating language competently to persuade the daughter to apply for the job (Q2)
• thorough information from both texts was used and manipulated to produce a response to Michael’s blog (Q3)
• ideas and issues presented in the commentary were clearly identified and used effectively to write an article (Q4)
• a perceptive understanding of the case studies through excellent reflection was demonstrated (Q5)
• an excellent analysis of how the song through its content, lyrics and other language features explored the reality of modern Korean society was provided (Q6).

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• a translation of the text was provided rather than responding to the question
• not all aspects of the question were addressed
• limited understanding of purpose, context and audience was apparent
• there was limited reference to the texts
• general knowledge was used, rather than information provided from the stimulus text.

Characteristics of better responses:

• candidates responded to the chosen question appropriately and creatively
• the selection of register was appropriate to the audience, purpose and context
• candidates sequenced ideas and information and structured the response coherently and effectively
• a reflection was provided that included opinions, views and emotions.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• ideas lacked sequence and structure and information relevant to the question was limited
• ideas were poorly expressed with many errors in both vocabulary and language structures
• relevant information and ideas presented in the question were not addressed
• some responses were unnecessarily too long and included irrelevant pre-learnt texts and/or contain numerous errors and inaccuracies.