The phrase “to what extent” was used for almost every extended response question in the 2017 HSC PDHPE exam and contributed around 30% of the marks. To what extent is often used in HSC exams and it is important that it is recognised as a question that requires you to make a judgement. For example, Question 23 from the 2017 exam asks:
To what extent does Australia’s health care system benefit from having a healthy ageing population? 8 marks
The marking guidelines provide a clear indication of what is required when answering such a question. They state:
- Makes judgement(s) about the extent to which having a healthy ageing population benefits Australia’s healthcare system.
- Makes the relationship between healthy ageing and burden on Australia’s healthcare system evident.
- Provides examples that support the judgement made.
Throughout the other questions in the 2017 exam, to what extent is used for 3 of the 4, 12 marks Option questions. The guidelines here each indicate one consistent phrase: PROVIDE/MAKE A JUDGEMENT.
This indicated that the question that begins with “to what extent” is much the same as a “assess” or “evaluate” question. Given the mark allocation, I would say that it is even a critical evaluation since most of the questions are worth 12 marks (although for 8 marks it can probably just evaluate).
To answer a question that begins with “to what extent” you should:
- present evidence for both sides of an argument (discuss the evidence)
- make judgements about this evidence (aka voice an opinion without the word opinion)
It is also important to use connecting words such as: therefore, because, however, for instance, for example, or as a result. You should then conclude with a very clear judgement that begins with one of these terms. I particularly like “therefore” to conclude and make a judgement. If you are struggling have a look at this Scaffold for evaluate.