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 providing a translation
- 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:
- provide both pieces of evidence, mocking Ju Ran’s failure at Gaokao and making fun of his ring cushion (Q1a)
- explain why Ms Sa asks Ju Ran to introduce himself, with references to the prescribed text (Q1b)
- analyse how film techniques illustrate conflicts in this extract. For example, the high angle shot of the gang of three emphasizes their intimidation while simultaneously rendering Ju Ran insignificant (Q1c)
- demonstrate a perceptive understanding of the common traits that have enabled Ju Ran and Ms Sa to achieve their goals by providing extensive references to relevant extracts (Q1d).
Areas for students to improve include:
- carefully reading and examining the questions
- referring to one other extract rather than multiple extracts (Q1d)
- supporting the argument with detailed references to this extract and one other extract in the film (Q1d).
Section I – Response to Prescribed Text – Part B
Students should:
- read the question carefully and address all parts in their response
- write in the type of text as specified in the question
- address the specified context, purpose and audience of the question
- write from a particular perspective as required by the question
- demonstrate 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 in the response.
In better responses, students were able to:
- discuss both of their views on the Gaokao and their strategies for future preparation
- write a well-articulated response using authentic, sophisticated language, for example, 万般皆下品，唯有读书高、输在起跑线上、真实社会现状、人脉、规划未来
- maintain a high level of accuracy in grammar and character writing.
Areas for students to improve include:
- referring to the given extract, for example, students should quote or paraphrase at least one or two sentences or phrases
- avoiding the simple retelling of the story without offering any reflection
- adhering to the Chinese character word limit.
Section II – Writing in Chinese
Students should:
- address all aspects of the question
- write in the relevant text type as specified in the question
- use appropriate register consistently throughout the response
- ensure that the content of the response is relevant to the question
- plan and sequence the response to ensure it 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 the appropriate word, expression or phrase for the context, purpose, and audience of the question
- ensure enough time to proofread and edit work.
In better responses, students were able to:
- present the argument logically and sequentially, with a clear introduction and an insightful conclusion
- use authentic and sophisticated expressions, for example, 冰冻三日非一日之寒、科技发展日新月异、资源分享、越来越普及、遥不可及的目标、网红、直播带货、得心应手、机不可失, 时不再来 、望子成龙, 望女成凤、唯一的渠道
- support their arguments with the most relevant examples to effectively address the question.
Areas for students to improve include:
- avoiding the use of pre-prepared responses that may not suit the question
- consistently linking the argument and examples back to the question
- using a wide range of vocabulary to avoid repetition
- proofreading their response to ensure grammatical and lexical accuracy.
