Rafy said:
Share your thoughts/comments/opinions on Section 3 (Extended Response; Questions 3-5)
I thought this year's questions were some of the easiest ones yet, especially as each set of questions used the unambiguous term "unexpected". Many students were concerned with the "to what extent" clause of the question but really, all that was needed were some qualitative terms such as "extensively" or "significantly". In other words you could continue using "similarly" "likewise" "in contrast to" throughout your essay while making some judgements as regards to how your texts and theses fit in with the terms of the question.
Question 3 (Physical Journeys)
Texts may show us that the world of physical journeys involves unexpected detours. To what extent do the texts you have studied support this idea?
My interpretation: the "unexpected detours" is concerned specifically with how the tangible destinations of physical journeys are linked inextricably with the intangible or material obstacles 'along the way'. In laymen's terms: use cause and effect, how unanticipated detours arise during the continuous journeying process and/or how the destinations of 'learning' may never be/always be/sometimes reached by one conquering their unforseen detours.
Question 4 (Imaginative Journeys)
Texts may show us that the world of imaginative journeys involves unexpected destinations. To what extent do the texts you have studied support this idea?
This would have fitted extremely well with one of theses i contribute to my teaching units. Anywho, it would involve how the "unexpected destinations" are actually the final, higher place of enlightenment that the metaphysical nature of journeying provides guidance to. I.e. structuring one's response around how journeys (destination) = process (journey as a medium, providing guidance to another place), process = journeys.
Question 5 (Inner Journeys)
Texts may show us that the world of inner journeys involves unexpected encounters. To what extent do the texts you have studied support this idea?
Probably the most difficult of the trio of journey questions due to the very simplicity of the phrasing. "Unexpected encounters" is quite a broad umbrella term, so the better responses would specifically delve into how these encounters impact upon the final, higher destination of psychological growth inner journeys produce.
An eg opening sequence: The unexpected events ("encounters") which arise during the course of an introspective journey provide necessary challenges for travelers to overcome, where stagnancy may be comfortable but reveals a baseless existence. Worlds of inner transitions use the medium of the self-reflection process in order to effect change in material reality, thereby outlining the inextricable bind between the metaphysical and physical. This dynamic equilibrium of powerful unexpected encounters and worlds or inner learning is explored in...
Oh yes, and i have some inkling in regards to the interpretation of the questions as i have consulted English professionals (including tertiary level academics with experience in the HSC) as well as my own accumulated knowledge of HSC marking from current teachers.