In DSE Chinese Paper 2, the essay has always been a key preparation item for candidates. An excellent essay requires not only a clear structure and rich arguments, but also profound thinking skills and precise language expression. In this article, we will provide DSE candidates with the most comprehensive guide to writing essays, including basic concepts, structural framework, writing skills, analysis of high scoring essays, and test-taking strategies, which will help you stand out in the 2025 DSE exam.
An expository essay is a style of writing in which exposition and argument are the main means of expression, aiming to explain the nature, characteristics and development of things through objective analysis and rational argument, or to express opinions and ideas on a certain issue. In DSE Chinese Paper 2, the expository essay plays an important role, and is an important way to test students' thinking ability and language expression.
Essays require writers to analyse issues in an objective manner and avoid overly subjective or emotional expressions. Even the expression of personal views needs to be based on objective facts and reasonable inferences.
Excellent essays reflect the writer's in-depth consideration of the issue, going beyond the superficial to explore the nature of things and their inner connections, and demonstrating discursive and critical thinking.
A thesis statement needs to have a clear thesis that is supported by sound arguments and rigorous proof. Arguments can be facts, figures, case studies, authoritative views, etc.
Excellent essays not only express their own views, but also consider different perspectives and opposing views, and through comparison and analysis, make the argument more comprehensive and convincing.
Want to master the core skills of expository writing? GETUTOR offers professional one-on-one tutoring to help you understand the nature of expository writing and improve your writing skills.
Book your free writing assessment todayMany students often confuse the thesis with the dissertation, thinking that they are the same genre. In fact, although there are similarities between them, there are obvious differences in terms of the purpose of writing, the mode of expression, and the tone of voice.
| Compare items | essay | argumentative essay |
| Purpose of writing | Objective Presentation of Facts and Opinions | Take a strong stand and criticise the debate. |
| presentation | Exposition as the main focus, supplemented by discussion | Discussion as the main focus, supplemented by explanation |
| Tone Characteristics | Moderate and objective, rational persuasion | Strong and clear, with a firm attitude |
| Structural features | Layered and Logical | Strong points, strong arguments |
| Applicable Topics | "Talking about... Opinions", "... My Opinion" | "Do you agree that..." , "Debate..." |
In the DSE examination, it is important to choose the right style of writing. Generally speaking, when a question asks "Tell me what you think about...", "... My views on...", "My views on...", it is appropriate to choose an essay. In general, when the question asks for "Talk about your views on...", "My opinion on...", it is appropriate to choose an essay. When the question explicitly asks for a position, such as "Do you agree with...", "Debate...", "Do you agree with...? When the topic explicitly requires the expression of a position, such as "Do you agree with..." or "Debate...", it is suitable to choose a dissertation. When the topic clearly requires a position to be expressed, such as "Do you agree with...", "Debate...", it is appropriate to choose a discussion paper. However, whichever style you choose, make sure that your arguments are clear, well-founded and rigorously argued.
While the expository essay emphasises the objective and rational presentation of facts, the thesis emphasises the clear expression of positions and points of view. Understanding the difference between the two will help you to choose the right style and writing strategy in the examination.
An excellent thesis requires a clear structure and rigorous logic. The basic structure of an essay consists of an introduction, thesis and conclusion, but in actual writing, it can be expanded to a more detailed six-part structure according to the needs of the content.
The opening statement is a statement of the topic and the point of the essay. You can use opening techniques such as paraphrasing, breaking, quoting or questioning to attract the reader's attention.
Develop an argument to make a point. It may be juxtaposed or hierarchical in structure, with the thesis supported by sound arguments and rigorous reasoning.
Summarise the whole text and deepen the theme. Summarising, citing, persuading, rhetorical or echoing techniques can be used to leave a deep impression on the reader.
| stage | time management | mission |
| Idea of the trial | 10 minutes. | Understand the requirements of the topic, define a position, and develop a thesis and argument. |
| Writing Programme | Five minutes. | Determine the structure of the essay and order the arguments |
| Writing Quotes | 10 minutes. | Open the door, point out the topic and make an argument. |
| Writing Theory | 50 minutes. | Develop an argument, present a point of view and refute the opposing side. |
| Conclusion | 10 minutes. | Summarise the whole text and deepen the theme |
| Check Modifications | Five minutes. | Check for typos and fix sentences that don't make sense. |
Want to master the structural framework of a thesis? Download our free templates to help you quickly structure your high scoring essays!
Download Free Essay TemplatesMastering expository writing skills is the key to improving your writing. The following is a detailed introduction to the skills of essay writing in terms of word count control, the use of expository techniques, the use of materials, the opening technique, the closing technique and the use of language.
In DSE Chinese Paper 2, the word requirement for an essay is normally 650 words or more. However, in order to fully develop the argument, it is recommended that the word count should be around 1,000-1,200 words. Too few words may lead to inadequate argumentation, while too many words may lead to scattered arguments and affect the quality of the essay.
Historical events and figures are often used as source material for essays. For example, the story of Lian Bo (藺相如) can be used to illustrate themes such as "knowing one's mistakes and correcting them" and "putting the greater good into consideration".
Quotations, proverbs, idioms, etc. can enhance the persuasive power of an essay. For example, "Do not do unto others as you would have them do unto you" can be used to illustrate themes such as "think differently" and "empathy".
The design of hypothetical examples needs to be logical and common sense. In the absence of examples, hypothetical examples can be supplementary but should not be used excessively.
A good opening can attract the reader's attention and clarify the theme and thesis of the essay. Commonly used opening techniques include solving the problem, breaking the problem, introducing the problem and asking questions.
A good ending can leave a deep impression on the reader and reinforce the theme of the essay. Common ending techniques include summarising, citing, persuading, rhetorical and echoing.
By analysing high scoring essays, we can better understand the requirements and skills of essay writing. The following is a high scoring essay on the topic of "Imitation and Individuality". We will analyse the essay in terms of structure, thesis, argument and language expression.
Imitation is an instinctive part of human learning. From babies learning language to students learning knowledge to artists learning techniques, imitation is everywhere. However, in modern society, where individuality is highly valued, the view that "imitation lacks individuality" has been widely spread. Are imitation and individuality opposing or unifying? This article will discuss this issue.
Firstly, imitation is the basis of innovation, not the opposite of individuality. As the old saying goes, "No one can speak without learning poetry," implying that it is difficult to develop one's own ability of expression without the accumulation of learning and imitation from the past. Mozart, the master of Western music, also went through a period of imitation and learning before he became a composer with a unique style. Chinese calligraphy master Wang Xizhi's "Lanting Preface" was honoured as the "world's best running script", but his achievements were also based on learning and imitating the calligraphy of his predecessors. These examples illustrate that imitation is the ladder of innovation and a necessary path to the formation of individuality.
Secondly, selective and thoughtful imitation itself embodies individuality. Imitation is not a simple copy, but a re-creation based on understanding and digestion. In the Tang Dynasty, the poet Du Fu learnt from Li Bai, but created a very different style of poetry; in the Song Dynasty, the painter Ma Yuan learnt from Li Cheng, but created the "Ma's family style". The reason why they were able to reveal their individuality in imitation is that they did not imitate blindly, but absorbed the essence of their predecessors selectively and thoughtfully, and innovated by combining their own characteristics.
Furthermore, over-emphasising individuality and refusing to imitate often results in "wood without roots and water without a source". In modern art, some people deliberately pursue the so-called "individuality" and "innovation", but the result is shallow and hollow. In contrast, artists who have undergone solid training in basic skills and who seek breakthroughs through imitation are often able to create works that have both depth and individuality.
Of course, we should also see that blind imitation does inhibit the development of individuality. The "sea of questions" and "standard answers" that have long existed in Chinese education have, to a certain extent, limited students' creativity and personality development. The phenomenon of "homogenisation" in the Japanese anime and manga industry also reflects the depletion of creativity that may result from excessive imitation. Therefore, what we need is to find a breakthrough in imitation, rather than simply imitating or refusing to imitate.
In summary, imitation and individuality are not opposites, but rather complementary unities. As Isaac Newton said, "I can see farther because I stand on the shoulders of giants". Imitation is the ladder for us to stand on the shoulders of giants, while individuality is the unique scenery we see on the shoulders of giants. In the process of learning and growing up, we should not only attach importance to imitation and learning from the wisdom of our predecessors, but also pay attention to giving full play to our individuality and pursuing innovative breakthroughs; only in this way can we truly realise the all-round development of the individual and the sustainable progress of society.
The language of the article is precise, rigorous and logical, and it makes good use of metaphors and quotations to enhance its persuasive power. For example, "Imitation is the ladder for us to stand on the shoulders of giants, while individuality is the unique scenery we see on the shoulders of giants", which vividly expresses the relationship between imitation and individuality.
GETUTOR provides a rich resource of high scoring sample essays to help you gain an in-depth understanding of essay writing skills and marking criteria.
View more high scoring sample essaysUnderstanding the common types of topics in DSE Essay will help you to prepare and practise in a targeted manner. The following is a list of common topic areas for DSE Chinese Paper 2 and their characteristics.
Social issues such as the wealth gap, the education system, gender equality, and so on. These questions require candidates to pay attention to social realities and express their thoughts and opinions on social issues.
Example: "Talking about the 'disparity between the rich and the poor'."
Technology-related issues such as artificial intelligence, the impact of digitisation, and internet security. These questions require candidates to pay attention to technological development and its impact on society and individuals.
Example: "Does technological development always do more good than harm?"
Literary and artistic issues such as literary criticism, artistic influence, cultural connections, and so on. These questions require candidates to possess a certain degree of literary and artistic literacy and aesthetic ability.
Example: "On the Value of Traditional Culture in Modern Society" (Chinese version only)
Environmental issues such as climate change, environmental pollution and sustainable development. These questions require candidates to be aware of environmental issues and to think about the relationship between man and nature.
Example: "Can environmental protection and development go hand in hand?"
Philosophical reflections such as moral issues, bioethics, technoethics, and so on. These questions require candidates to be able to think deeply and make value judgements.
Example: "On the Relationship Between Rights and Responsibilities" (in Chinese)
Such as eating habits, sports health, mental health and other life issues. Such topics are close to candidates' daily lives and require them to think about healthy lifestyles.
Example: "Talking about the relationship between stress and health."
| years | topic | Question type analysis |
| 2023 | "Imitation lacks character." | Philosophical discourse, which examines understanding and thinking about the relationship between imitation and personality. |
| 2022 | "Instead of specialising in one thing all your life, you should develop a diversified life." | Personal Growth category, which examines thinking about specialisation and diversification. |
| 2021 | "Physical abundance is good for children's growth." | The category of Education and Growth, which examines the relationship between material conditions and growth. |
| 2020 | "Gift Giving in My Opinion | Social and Cultural, examining the understanding and thinking of gift-giving culture. |
| 2019 | "Books are useless." | In the category of Educational Values, it examines thinking about the value of reading. |
In the process of writing essays, candidates often encounter various problems, such as unclear thesis, insufficient arguments, unclear structure, etc. The following are some common solutions to these problems. Specific solutions to these common problems are provided below.
Uncertainty about the point of view is a common problem in expository essays, which directly affects the persuasiveness of the essay and the scoring. The key to solving this problem is to make your position clear at the question stage and to state your point of view directly at the beginning.
"Regarding the idea that imitation lacks individuality, some people believe that imitation inhibits the development of individuality, while others believe that imitation is a necessary path for the formation of individuality. This is a question worth pondering..."
(Problem: Vague position, no clear statement of view)
"The idea that 'imitation lacks individuality' is too one-sided. In my opinion, imitation and individuality are not opposites, but rather complementary unities. Appropriate imitation is the foundation of innovation and a necessary path for the formation of individuality."
(Improvement: clear stance and direct expression of one's viewpoint)
Insufficient argumentation weakens the persuasive power of an argument. The key to solving this problem is to accumulate multiple sources and ensure that each argument is supported by at least 2-3 strong arguments.
When you encounter writing difficulties, GETUTOR's professional tutors can help you to solve all kinds of problems in essay writing and improve your writing skills.
Book a tutor nowUnderstanding the marking scheme of DSE Chinese Paper 2 will help you to improve your writing in a targeted manner, as the marking scheme of DSE Chinese Paper 2 focuses on four aspects: structure, content, expression and language use.
| Marking Scheme | value of a score | Scoring Points |
| structure | 20 points | Whether the structure of the essay is clear, whether the layers are distinct, whether the transition is natural, and whether the beginning and the end are echoed. |
| content | 30 points | Whether the point is clear, whether the argument is sufficient, whether the argument is rigorous, and whether the thought is profound. |
| Express | 30 points | Whether the expression is clear, whether the language is fluent, whether the rhetoric is appropriate and whether the style is distinctive. |
| Language Use | 20 points | Vocabulary, sentence variety, grammatical correctness, and punctuation |
| grade | Score range | Feature Description |
| 5** | 91-100 | Rigorous structure, profound content, fluent expression, precise use of language, insightful and innovative thinking |
| 5* | 81-90 | Well-structured, informative, clear, accurate use of language, with some depth and breadth |
| 5 | 71-80 | Clear structure, rich content, fluent expression, correct use of language, some depth of thought |
| 4 | 61-70 | The structure is basically complete, the content is relatively full, the expression is basically clear, and the use of language is basically correct. |
| 3 | 51-60 | Fair structure, average content, basic clarity of expression, some errors in language use |
| 2 | 41-50 | Loose structure, thin content, lack of clarity of expression, more errors in language use |
| 1 | 31-40 | Confusing structure, poor content, unclear expression, and more errors in the use of language |
| U | 0-30 | Incomplete structure, insufficient content, confusing expressions, serious errors in language usage |
Theoretical study is important, but practical practice is even more crucial to improving your writing skills. Below are some methods and questions to help you improve your essay writing skills in practice.
Time-limited writing training is an effective way to simulate the examination environment and improve writing efficiency. The following steps are recommended:
Peer review is an effective way to improve your writing. The following steps are recommended:
GETUTOR provides professional writing coaching services to help you improve your essay writing skills and easily cope with the DSE exam.
Book a tutor nowGETUTOR provides comprehensive DSE Chinese writing tutoring services to help students improve their expository writing skills and prepare for the DSE exam with ease. Our services include one-on-one writing tutoring, essay correction, mock exams, etc. Our experienced Chinese tutors provide professional guidance.
Suitable for beginners, this course focuses on the basic concepts, structural frameworks, and writing skills of the expository essay, and helps students to develop basic skills in expository writing.
Suitable for students with a certain level of foundation, it focuses on improving the argumentative ability, verbal expression and depth of thought of the expository essay, and helps students to improve the level of writing the expository essay.
Suitable for students preparing for the DSE exam, focusing on the DSE exam, providing targeted training and guidance to help students achieve good results in the DSE exam.
GETUTOR provides one-on-one writing tutoring services, providing students with targeted guidance and training according to their individual circumstances and needs, and helping them to improve their writing skills quickly.
GETUTOR has helped many students to improve their essay writing skills and get excellent results in the DSE exam. Below are some of the success stories of students, hope to give you some inspiration and encouragement when you are preparing for the exam.
"My essay was only at Grade 4 level in Form 5, and through GETUTOR's professional tutoring, I got a 5** in DSE Chinese Paper 2. GETUTOR's tutors not only taught me the skills of essay writing, but also helped me to build up my self-confidence and interest".
- Mr Chan, St Paul's Co-educational College, DSE 5**
| student level | Main Issues | improvement strategy | enhancement effect |
| Elementary (Level 1-2) | Confusing structure, unclear arguments, unclear speech | Establishing basic writing framework, learning basic writing skills, and strengthening language expression training. | Upgrade to level 3-4 |
| Intermediate (Level 3-4) | Insufficient arguments, poorly argued, insufficient depth of thought | Accumulate a wealth of arguments, learn argumentation skills, and enhance the depth of thinking. | Upgrade to level 4-5 |
| Advanced (Level 5) | Lack of insightfulness, inaccuracy of expression, lack of rigour in structure | Cultivate independent thinking skills, refine language expression, and improve essay structure. | Upgraded to 5*-5** level |
Want to do as well as they did in DSE Chinese Paper 2? GETUTOR's professional counselling can help you achieve your goals!
Start Your Essay Score Improvement Journey!In order to help more students improve their essay writing, GETUTOR provides a wealth of free learning resources, including writing templates, a library of examples, and a collection of selected quotations and aphorisms.
GETUTOR provides professional essay writing templates to help students quickly construct high-grade essays. The templates include a framework for writing the introduction, thesis and conclusion, and commonly used sentences, which are suitable for different types of essay topics.
GETUTOR provides a rich library of examples to help students accumulate argumentative materials for essay writing. The database includes examples of historical events, celebrity stories, social phenomena, technological developments, etc., which are suitable for different types of essay topics.
GETUTOR provides a collection of selected quotations and aphorisms to help students enrich their argumentative material for their essays. The collection of quotations and aphorisms includes Chinese and foreign celebrities' quotes, ancient classics and modern popular quotations, etc. They are suitable for different types of essay topics.
GETUTOR provides DSE Chinese Paper 2 previous years' real question sets to help students understand the question types and requirements of the DSE exam. The collection includes questions, marking scheme and high scoring examples, which is an important resource for preparing for the DSE exam.
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Register for Free MembershipEssay writing is an important part of DSE Chinese Paper 2, and mastering the skills and methods of writing essays is crucial to improving your Chinese writing skills and coping with the DSE exam. This article provides a comprehensive guide to writing essays from basic concepts, structural frameworks, writing skills, analysis of high scoring essays, marking criteria and other aspects.
We hope that through the study of this article, you can have a better understanding of the requirements and skills of essay writing, improve your essay writing skills and get good results in the DSE exam. If you need more professional guidance and help, welcome to contact GETUTOR, our professional tutors will provide you with one-to-one writing guidance and training.
Last but not least, I wish all the students preparing for the DSE exams to achieve the desired results in the exams and realise their goals and dreams!
If you want to improve your essay writing, GETUTOR's professional tutoring can help you achieve your goals!
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