Texts in Time - Essay Questions and Advice

Gents,

I would like you to tackle both of these essay questions - 800-1000 words max.

1. In what ways does a comparative study accentuate the distinctive contexts of Frankenstein and Blade Runner?

This is what the markers' summary was in response to the HSC answers they read:

In better responses, candidates considered how a comparative study highlighted composers’ contexts. They produced a sustained response, developing a thesis that genuinely addressed the question using a discerning selection of textual references.

In weaker responses, candidates tended to identify some similarities or differences between the texts, often with a limited understanding of their significance. They considered the comparison of texts in a superficial or generalised way. Treatment of context was not integrated into the discussion and was frequently a reference to the time of composition rather than an understanding of how context is reflected in the construction and reception of texts. They often relied on a few basic or inappropriate references to texts.

...

2. Analyse how Frankenstein and Blade Runner imaginatively portray individuals who challenge the established values of their times.


This is what the markers' summary was in response to the HSC answers they read:

In better responses, candidates considered the key notion of individuals challenging established values and produced a shaped response that developed and sustained a thesis which genuinely addressed the question and which used a discerning selection of textual references.

In weaker responses, candidates tended to identify some similarities between these texts, often with a limited understanding of the significance of these similarities. They often considered the key concept of established values of their time in a superficial or generalised way or ignored it. Treatment of context was not integrated into the discussion and was frequently a reference to the time of composition rather than an understanding of how context is reflected in the construction and reception of texts. They often relied on a few basic or inappropriate references to texts.

...

It should be obvious to you all by now that you have some wonderful resource notes that delve into both texts. There is more than enough information at your disposal to be able to tackle both these questions.

A reminding word of advice - remember what I said about 'understanding' and 'planning' your answers. This unit - as all HSC units do - reward those who know what they're going to say before they say it. Don't just write an introduction before you know what's going in your body. Plan your body, then write an introduction accordingly. It is the only way to ensure that you answer the question that has been asked of you.

You have done well engaging with this unit - the next step is to ensure that you write, correct, write, correct.

The task is distributed on Thursday 7th. That is one week from today. Your dedication to this task will reflect your mark. A well-delivered speech is a thing of beauty and will be rewarded. A poorly-delivered speech is awkward and shall be marked accordingly.

Remember, there are four things to remember when delivering your speech:

1. Posture - ensure your weight is equal on both feet and your legs are straight - don't slouch or sink into your waist. It suggests a casual blase attitude and you sure don't want your marker thinking you don't care.
2. Hand gestures - while they don't need to be over-the-top, they need to suggest you are trying to get the other boys to agree with your points of view.
3. Vocal projection - far too many boys speak too quickly and too softly. These will kill your speech in the water. Slow down, enunciate your words - get your point across. A shorter speech is better - trying to hammer through while ignoring your audience will show your marker you haven't changed your task delivery method; you're simply reading an essay - this is not public speaking.
4. EYE CONTACT - Why is this in caps? I think you all know the answer to that! Know your first 20 seconds off-by-heart, then read the criteria - "refer to, but don't rely on, your notes". Simple glances up are a necessity - knowing the last six words of each sentence will get your eye-contact where it needs to be! If you know it all verbatim and don't need notes, well, that's the upper echelon of marks.

Good luck - I'm here if you need me!

M