Full Breakdown
Hong Kong DSE Exam Features Relatable Topics Amid Surprising Poetry Inclusion
4/11/2026, 12:09:55 AM
Overview of the English Exam Format
On Friday, Hong Kong students participating in the Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) English exam encountered a mix of familiar themes and unexpected elements. Approximately 53,000 candidates sat for the reading and writing papers, while the listening test is scheduled for Saturday. This year's exam saw an increase in candidates, with over 58,000 registered, compared to 55,000 last year. The exams will conclude on May 5, with results expected on July 15.
Relatable Themes and Student Reactions
Candidates expressed relief at the inclusion of relatable topics such as bubble tea and starting a YouTube channel, which were featured prominently in the exam. Eleni Mak, a 17-year-old student from Good Hope School, noted that the reading exam was easier than in previous years, stating, “They are straightforward and the topics are related to daily life.” However, the introduction of two poems—"Vacation" by Rita Dove and "Travel" by Gio Evan—caught many off guard. While some students, like Eleni, found the poems manageable, others, such as Roniya Law from CCC Kei Yuen College, felt unprepared for the poetry component, describing the reading exam as harder than expected.
Teacher and Tutor Perspectives
Educators generally praised the exam's approachable topics, which allowed students to focus on comprehension rather than deciphering complex jargon. An English teacher remarked that the poems were easy to understand, as they did not require in-depth literary analysis. Alan Chan, a tutor at King’s Glory Education Centre, observed that the exam's easier format might be a strategic adjustment by the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority (HKEAA) in response to the increased number of candidates. However, he cautioned that this could lead to a higher cut-off score, potentially making it more challenging for weaker students to pass.
Exam Structure and Content
The exam structure allowed students to choose between different formats for their writing tasks, including letters to the editor and dialogue scripts. This flexibility, combined with relatable topics, was seen as beneficial for students. Chan emphasized the importance of focusing on fundamental grammar skills to avoid losing marks, particularly in areas such as subject-verb agreement and tense consistency. He predicted that the upcoming listening exam would cover practical topics like speech writing and report proposals.
Conclusion and Implications
Overall, the 2023 DSE English exam has been characterized by its relatable themes and manageable content, despite the surprise inclusion of poetry. While many students felt confident, the potential for a higher cut-off score raises concerns about the implications for those less prepared. As the exam period continues, students are encouraged to maintain focus on their foundational skills to maximize their performance.
