command terms

Question 1

annotate

Answer 1

add labels of notes or short comments, usually to a diagram, map or photograph to describe or explain.

Question 2

calculate

Answer 2

work out a numerical answer. in general, working should be shown, especially where two or more steps are involved.

Question 3

compare

Answer 3

write about what is similar and different about two things. for comparison, two elements or themes are required. two seperate descriptions do not make a comparison.

Question 4

complete

Answer 4

to add the remaining details required

Question 5

contrast

Answer 5

write about the differences between two things

Question 6

define or state the meaning

Answer 6

give the meaning or definition of a word or phrase

Question 7

describe

Answer 7

write what something is like or where it is.
- may be used for questions about resources in the question paper (graphs)
- to describe something from memory
it is often coupled with other command words such as name.
- describe and explain

Question 8

devise or plan

Answer 8

presentation of a particular feature such as a form or questionnaire to meet specific requirements

Question 9

explain or give reasons for

Answer 9

write about why something occurs or happens

Question 10

giving your views or comments on

Answer 10

say what you think about something

Question 11

how

Answer 11

• in what way?
• to what extent?
• by what means?

Question 12

illustrating your answer

Answer 12

account for by using specific examples or diagrams

Question 13

insert or label

Answer 13

placing specific names or details to an illustrative technique in response to a particular requirement

Question 14

justify

Answer 14

say why you chose something or why you think in a certain way

Question 15

locate

Answer 15

find where something is placed or state where something is found on a diagram or map

Question 16

measure

Answer 16

implies that the quantity concerned can be directly obtained from a suitable measuring instrument

Question 17

predict

Answer 17

use your own knowledge and understanding, probably along with information provided to state what might happen next

Question 18

refer to or with refrenece to

Answer 18

write an answer which uses some of the ideas provided in map/photograph

Question 19

study

Answer 19

look carefully at (usually one with figures)

Question 20

Suggest

Answer 20

set down your ideas or knowledge of

Question 21

what differences are shown between A and B

Answer 21

use comparative sentences to describe the changes involved as A changed to B.
- factual descriptions

Question 22

where

Answer 22

• to what place?
• at what place?