Spanish Continuers 2015 HSC exam pack

Characteristics of better responses:

• the conversation conveyed factual information, thoughts, feelings and opinions
• an appropriate range of varied vocabulary to suit the context was used
• thought-provoking questions were addressed with explanations and clear reasons
• complex sentences, with one or more subordinate clauses were used and verb, adjective, gender and number agreements were respected
• a wide range of verbal tenses were used and manipulated accurately.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• only the basic and the familiar was expressed
• the discussion of a topic was not extended, with no additional information or comment provided – candidates answered simply and waited for the next question
• vocabulary or tenses were not manipulated beyond that which had been rote-learned and verb, adjective, gender and number agreements were ignored
• some of the questions were not understood, even when re-phrased into the most basic form
• anglicisms and/or English vocabulary were used.

Listening and Responding

Characteristics of better responses:

• the ability to extract important details and identify essential information was demonstrated
• relevant information was identified to complete the form clearly
• the main purpose was identified (Q5)
• the ability to analyse ‘how’ was demonstrated, rather just listing or translating information (Q7)
• a perceptive understanding of the change of reactions was demonstrated.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• only one detail or limited information was identified
• the location of the pain was not understood (Q3)
• the text was retold, without analysis or support
• limited answers and at times information in isolation were provided
• the text was translated or disparate details were listed without analysis or explanation.

Reading and Responding (Part B)

Question 11

Characteristics of better responses:

• all or most points raised in the stimulus text were addressed
• good organisation and planning was evident
• ideas and information were sequenced to produce a coherent response
• authentic and creative language was included, using a range of tenses
• connectives were used, including subordinate clauses.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• only one or two points raised in the stimulus text was addressed
• information from the stimulus text was included in the response but was not developed
• organisation was lacking, and the lack of connectives prevented the flow of ideas; logical sequence was not evident
• poor language skills and some incomprehensible vocabulary (made-up words) made the text incoherent at times.

Writing in Spanish

Characteristics of better responses:

• the purpose of the message was clearly outlined (Q12)
• the interview flowed naturally and included interesting questions
• the text type was developed with both poignant questions and reflective answers, giving the interview a coherent structure from beginning to end
• a range of tenses was manipulated well
• control of a good repertoire of vocabulary and authentic expressions was demonstrated
• creativity was displayed.

Characteristics of weaker responses:

• candidates did not convey the idea that the parents were away (Q12)
• descriptive language was used without including any reflection
• mostly the present tense and emotive language were used
• little/no evidence of planning was demonstrated, therefore ideas and information were not sequenced coherently
• many English words or made-up words were used
• the ability to write with creativity was not evident.