Section I – 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 their response
- explain the quotes given in Chinese and their significance in the relevant context rather than just translating them
- demonstrate knowledge of all the extracts for study and the whole prescribed text where required
- respond in English using their own words
- use the lines given as an indication of length of response required.
In better responses, students were able to:
- understand the intention of the question and address all aspects of it fully
- demonstrate a perceptive understanding of the whole film, and in particular, the prescribed scenes
- demonstrate a good understanding of Pan’s strategies (Q1b)
- display a thorough understanding of Lao Ye’s feelings towards Pan using film techniques (Q1c)
- provide a comprehensive analysis of how different characters search for their personal identity (Q1d).
Areas for students to improve include:
- addressing all parts of the question
- linking responses to the question and not providing irrelevant information that does not answer the question
- demonstrating a thorough knowledge of film techniques, not just language skills.
Section I – Response to Prescribed Text – Part B
Students should:
- address all parts of the question fully
- write in the type of text as specified in the question
- address the specified purpose, context and audience of the question
- write from a particular perspective as required by the question
- demonstrate their knowledge of the chosen extract and other relevant parts of the text when responding to the question
- support their response with evidence from the text
- use their own words and avoid translating the text as part of their response.
In better responses, students were able to:
- address all parts of the question and write in the correct text-type
- write a diary entry from the perspective of Lao Ye reflecting on the relationship with her neighbour Shui
- display good control of language and grammatical structures
- show breadth and depth in their treatment of the topic
- support their response with relevant references to the appropriate extracts.
Areas for students to improve include:
- being familiar with all the characters and the plot of the film
- being able to write in Chinese from the perspective of any of the characters in the film
- demonstrating in their response knowledge of the extracts set for study and the whole text
- being creative whilst keeping within the confines of the requirements of the question.
Section II – Writing in Language
Students should:
- address all aspects of the question
- write in the relevant text type required by the question
- use appropriate register throughout the response
- ensure that the content of their response is relevant to the question
- plan and sequence their response to ensure that their response is coherent
- demonstrate knowledge of vocabulary, expressions and where relevant, idiomatic language related to the issues prescribed for study
- support their 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 appropriate word, expression or phrase for the context, purpose and audience of the question
- ensure there is enough time to edit their work.
In better responses, students were able to:
- produce a coherent argument and support their ideas with relevant evidence
- use a variety of vocabulary and language structures to express ideas
- structure and sequence their response effectively.
Areas for students to improve include:
- writing with a good level of fluency and accuracy
- developing a coherent, organised and well-structured argument
- proof-reading the response for grammatical and lexical accuracy.
