Section outline

◄Topic 3
►Topic 5
    • Middle level response

    • Transcript Middle File
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    • Section 1: Presentation and follow-up discussion

      Presentation, interaction/responsiveness

      Presentation

      • Communication: While the candidate provides factual information about the Spring Festival, the ideas and opinions are relatively basic and focused more on describing traditions rather than deeply analysing or reflecting on them. The responses are more factual and less developed in terms of personal insight or critical discussion.
      • Justification: The candidate does offer some explanations and justifications for the traditions mentioned, but these are generally straightforward and lack depth in personal analysis or unique perspectives.
      • Engagement: The candidate engages in the presentation but does not fully develop or explore the ideas beyond providing factual information.


      Follow-up discussion

      • Communication: The responses are generally factual and descriptive. Although the candidate answers questions clearly, his responses primarily reiterate known facts about the traditions rather than offering deeper personal opinions or detailed insights.
      • Justification: The candidate makes some attempts to justify their points, but these are more about explaining facts rather than providing insightful or reflective analysis.
      • Engagement: The candidate responds to questions appropriately and engages in the discussion, but their engagement is more factual than interactive or responsive in a way that develops the conversation further.


      The candidate's presentation and follow-up discussion provide a factual overview of the Spring Festival but lack depth in terms of personal ideas and opinions. While the candidate communicates information clearly and justifies some points, the responses are primarily descriptive rather than reflective or analytical. There is some engagement with the examiner, but the conversation does not delve deeply into personal insights or more developed viewpoints. The responses are appropriate but do not fully meet the criteria for higher levels where a deeper exploration of ideas and engagement would be expected.

      Mark awarded = 6 out of 10


      Language range

      Presentation

      • Linking and cohesive devices: The candidate uses some linking devices to connect ideas, such as “然后” (then), “还有” (also), and “比如说” (for example). However, "然后” (then) is used repeatedly and the connections between points are not always smooth or well-developed, which affects the overall coherence of the presentation.
      • Vocabulary: The vocabulary used is appropriate but fairly basic. The candidate employs common terms related to the Spring Festival, such as “年夜饭” (reunion dinner), “年糕” (rice cake), and “饺子” (dumplings). There is minimal use of less common or varied vocabulary.
      • Variation and repetition: The candidate does attempt to vary their formulation but tends to repeat certain phrases and structures. There is limited variation in sentence construction, leading to some repetition.


      Follow-up discussion

      • Linking and cohesive devices: The candidate uses simple linking phrases like “那” (then) and “所以” (so) to connect their responses, but the flow of conversation sometimes lacks cohesion.
      • Vocabulary: The vocabulary remains basic throughout the discussion, focusing on familiar terms related to the topic. There is little evidence of using more sophisticated or varied vocabulary.
      • Variation and repetition: The candidate shows some attempt to vary their responses, but the sentence structures and phrases often repeat, which impacts the overall effectiveness of their language range.

       

      The candidate’s language range in both the presentation and follow-up discussion shows an appropriate use of vocabulary and linking devices but lacks the complexity and variation expected for higher marks. While the candidate connects ideas using basic linking devices and appropriate vocabulary, the range is limited, with some repetition and basic formulation. The vocabulary is generally suitable but does not include less common or varied terms. The language range is functional but does not demonstrate the sophistication or variety required for a higher mark.

      Mark awarded = 6 out of 10


      Language accuracy

      Presentation

      • Simple grammar: The candidate generally uses simple grammar correctly, such as subject-verb-object structures and basic sentence forms. For instance, sentences like “春节这个，其实就是我们中国人的新年了” (Spring Festival is actually our Chinese New Year) are grammatically correct.
      • Complex grammar: There is some attempt at using more complex grammar, such as relative clauses and embedded structures, but with occasional slips. For example, “然后在现代种思想里面的人们 贴…贴对联，还挂灯笼，这些的就是为了嗯，去…驱赶一些厄运吧” (In modern thinking, people put up couplets and hang lanterns to drive away misfortune) contains a slight grammatical error and a bit of awkwardness in structure.

      Follow-up discussion 

      • Simple grammar: The use of simple grammar remains accurate, with clear communication in basic sentence structures. For instance, “一般来讲都是我们家自己做” (Generally, it is our family who cooks) is grammatically sound.
      • Complex grammar: The candidate attempts to use more complex structures but with occasional errors. For instance, “感觉可能就是因为人们为了驱赶一些厄运吧” (It feels like it's because people want to drive away some misfortune) is somewhat repeated and lacks clarity, indicating a slip in more complex grammatical structures.

      The candidate shows accurate use of simple grammar throughout the presentation and follow-up discussion. There is an evident control of basic grammatical structures, and most sentences are correctly formed. However, the use of more complex grammar is present but includes occasional slips, which can affect clarity. Errors are generally minor and do not significantly impede communication, but they do highlight areas for improvement in handling more sophisticated grammatical forms. Overall, the candidate's performance in language accuracy is consistent with a mark of 7, as he exhibits strong control over simple grammar and some control over complex structures, despite occasional errors.

      Mark awarded = 7 out of 10


      Total mark awarded for Presentation and follow-up discussion = 19 out of 30

    • Section 2: Conversation task card

      Task completion and communication

      1. 加入社团的优点和缺点 (Joining clubs' advantages and disadvantages):

      The candidate mentions benefits such as early teamwork experience, meeting new friends, and helping with university applications. While the ideas are relevant, they could be more fully developed.

      1. 有些人不想加入社团，为什么? (Why some people don't want to join clubs):

      The candidate provides a reasonable explanation that academic pressure and time consumption might deter people. This response is relevant and straightforward but lacks depth, missing an opportunity to provide a more comprehensive argument.

      1. 你对做志愿者的看法 (Your view on volunteering):

      The candidate expresses that everyone should experience volunteering for the sense of achievement and future job preparation it provides. This response is clear and relevant but could be expanded with more examples.

      1. 有些人不愿意做志愿者，你觉得是什么原因？(Why some people are unwilling to volunteer):

      The candidate suggests that the lack of interest due to future career plans not involving volunteer activities might be a reason, but he does not elaborate enough on the reasons, leaving a weak and unfinished argument.

      1. 在你住的地方,哪些人最需要志愿者的帮助？(Who needs volunteer assistance the most in your area):

      The candidate mentions elderly neighbours who could benefit from the help of volunteers, offering a specific and relatable example. This response is well articulated and relevant.

      1. 志愿活动对社会的影响 (Impact of volunteer activities on society):

      The candidate agrees with the statement that volunteer activities make the world a better place, providing a clear and concise response. However, more examples or a detailed explanation would improve this response.

      1. 做义工和责任感的关系 (The relationship between volunteering and a sense of responsibility):

      The candidate shares a personal anecdote about teaching English, which helped him understand the challenges and developed his perspective. This response is well supported and relevant.

      Overall, the candidate completes most tasks fully and communicates relevant information with clear ideas and opinions. The responses are mostly well-developed but could benefit from additional detail and examples to enhance the argument. The candidate engages in the conversation and responds to prompts, showing good interaction with the teacher/examiner.

      Mark awarded = 7 out of 10 


      Language range

      • Linking and cohesive devices: The candidate uses a range of linking and cohesive devices, such as "首先" (firstly), "还有" (also), "然后" (then), and "因为" (because). These help to connect ideas and provide some structure to the responses, though there are occasional moments where transitions could be smoother or more varied.
      • Vocabulary: The candidate uses a range of vocabulary appropriate to the tasks, discussing topics like teamwork, academic pressure, and societal contributions. There is some use of less common vocabulary, though it is not frequent. Example: Words and phrases like "团队合作" (teamwork), "成就感" (sense of achievement) are appropriate and relevant.
      • Variation and repetition: The candidate attempts to vary language but there is some repetition, particularly with phrases like "感觉" (feel) and "我觉得" (I think). More variety in expression and avoiding repeated sentence structures would improve the range of language used.
      • Less common vocabulary: The candidate occasionally uses less common vocabulary, though not extensively. Phrases like "人脉" (connections/network) and "扩展" (expand) show an attempt to use more sophisticated language, but this could be increased to demonstrate a wider range.

      Overall, the candidate uses a range of linking and cohesive devices to connect a series of mostly well-developed points. The vocabulary used is appropriate to the tasks, with occasional use of less common vocabulary. There is an attempt to vary language, but some repetition is present.

      Mark awarded = 7 out of 10

        

      Language accuracy

      • Simple grammar: The candidate mostly uses simple grammar accurately. Basic sentence structures are correct, and simple sentences are used effectively to communicate ideas.
      • Complex grammar: The candidate uses some complex grammar structures with occasional slips. For example, the use of conjunctions and subordinate clauses shows an attempt to use more complex sentences, but there are minor errors and awkward phrasing. Example: "然后看他每次都在自己的家里面种菜，这一些…然后也感觉他们生活没有不是特别的丰富，就感觉…志愿者可以在这一类上面帮助他们，让他们生活变得更有趣一点。" (And then seeing him planting vegetables in his home every time, it also feels like their life is not particularly rich. It feels like volunteers can help them in this area to make their life more interesting.)
      • Error analysis: There are some errors in grammar and word choice, but they rarely impede communication. These include minor grammatical slips and occasional awkward wordy phrasing that could be smoothed out for better fluency. Example: "然后就是会让我站在不同的层次上考虑，要到底怎么跟他们解释这个单词。" (And then it would make me think from different levels about how to explain the word to them.)

      Overall, the candidate demonstrates accurate use of simple grammar and uses some complex grammar with occasional slips. Errors are present but do not significantly impede communication.   

      Mark awarded = 8 out of 10


      Total mark awarded for Conversation task card = 22 out of 30


      Pronunciation and intonation for the whole speaking test

      Pronunciation is intelligible and intonation is appropriate. Individual sounds are articulated clearly.

      Mark awarded = 5 out of 5

       

      Total mark awarded for Speaking test = 46 out of 65

    • Moderator comments (Whole test)

      Conduct of the test:

      Questions can be more open-ended, concise, to give the candidate more opportunities to interact efficiently.

      How the teacher/examiner performance could improve:

      Only interrupt the presentation if the candidate shows no sign of finishing after 2 minutes. In the Follow up discussion, the Examiner could ask more open-ended questions to enable the candidate to express his opinions and give justifications and could prompt for detailed responses by asking follow-up questions. Examples of questions: "How do you think the Spring Festival celebrations have changed over the years in your family or community?", "Can you compare the Spring Festival with another major festival from a different culture that you are familiar with?", "In what ways do you think modern technology has impacted the way we celebrate the Spring Festival?", "How do you think the celebration of the Spring Festival abroad differs from how it is celebrated in China, and why?", etc.

      How the candidate performance could improve:

      Presentation

      • Improve organisation; start with a clear introduction, explain the significance, and then describe the customs and activities in a logical order.
      • Provide more detailed explanations, personal opinions and include cultural significance to add depth.
      • Practise speaking more smoothly, avoiding fillers like "然后呢", and using transitional phrases such as "此外", "除了" etc. to connect ideas.

      Follow-up discussion

      • Always provide a clear explanation and justification for answers.

      Example, Candidate: "我觉得应该就是就是吃了，可能会有好运吧。" ("I think it's probably because eating it might bring good luck.")

      Improvement: "年糕象征着年年高升，意味着生活水平和事业逐年提高，带来好运。因此，每年春节吃年糕成了一种传统，寓意新的一年能够顺利和繁荣。" ("Nian gao symbolises rising higher year after year, implying improvements in living standards and career success, bringing good luck. Therefore, eating nian gao during the Spring Festival has become a tradition, symbolising a smooth and prosperous new year.")

      • Share personal experiences and examples to make answers more vivid and engaging.

      Example, Candidate:"我们家一般自己做年夜饭..." ("Our family usually makes the New Year's Eve dinner ourselves...")

      Improvement: "我们家每年都会自己准备年夜饭。我记得有一次，我们全家一起去市场买海鲜和其他食材，然后一起在厨房忙活了整整一个下午。这样不仅能享受美食，更能增进家人之间的感情。" ("Our family prepares the New Year's Eve dinner every year. I remember once we all went to the market to buy seafood and other ingredients, and then spent the whole afternoon cooking together in the kitchen. This not only allowed us to enjoy delicious food but also strengthened our family bonds.")

      Conversation task card

      • Expand on points by providing detailed explanations and examples.

      Example, Candidate: "我觉得，首先就是让年轻人可以提早体会到一些..." ("I think, first of all, it allows young people to experience some...")

      Improvement: "加入社团可以让年轻人提早体验团队合作的乐趣和挑战。例如，在志愿者社团中，他们需要与不同背景的人合作，共同完成项目。这不仅培养了他们的沟通能力，也增强了他们的社会责任感。" ("Joining clubs allows young people to experience the joys and challenges of teamwork early on. For example, in a volunteer club, they need to work with people from different backgrounds to complete projects together. This not only develops their communication skills but also enhances their sense of social responsibility.")

      • Discuss potential solutions or hypothetical scenarios to show deeper thinking.

      Example, Candidate: "可能是因为学业压力稍微有点大..." ("It might be because the academic pressure is a bit high...")

      Improvement: "如果学校能够提供更灵活的时间安排和学术支持，更多学生可能会愿意加入社团。比如，设立专门的时间段用于社团活动，或提供学术咨询帮助学生平衡学业和社团事务。" ("If schools could provide more flexible scheduling and academic support, more students might be willing to join clubs. For instance, setting aside specific time slots for club activities or offering academic counselling to help students balance their studies and club commitments.")

      • Reflect on how the discussed topics affect the individual and society as a whole, providing a more nuanced perspective for justification.

      Example, Candidate: "我觉得是这样的..." ("I think it is like that...")

      Improvement: "我认为志愿活动确实能让世界充满爱。比如，我去年参与了一次社区服务活动，为孤寡老人送温暖。在这个过程中，不仅老人们感受到了关爱，我自己也体会到了助人为乐的满足感。这样的经历让我更加意识到，每一个人的小小善举都能对社会产生积极影响。" ("I believe that volunteering activities can indeed make the world full of love. For example, last year I participated in a community service activity that brought warmth to lonely elderly people. In this process, not only did the elderly feel cared for, but I also experienced the satisfaction of helping others. This experience made me realise that everyone's small acts of kindness can have a positive impact on society.")

◄Topic 3
►Topic 5