Command Terms

Question 1

Define

Answer 1

Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.

Question 2

Draw

Answer 2

Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a
pencil. A ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams
should be drawn to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or a smooth curve.

Question 3

Label

Answer 3

Add labels to a diagram.

Question 4

List

Answer 4

Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.

Question 5

Measure

Answer 5

Obtain a value for a quantity.

Question 6

State

Answer 6

Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or
calculation.

Question 7

Annotate

Answer 7

Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.

Question 8

Apply

Answer 8

Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given
problem or issue.

Question 9

Calculate

Answer 9

Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working.

Question 10

Describe

Answer 10

Give a detailed account.

Question 11

Distinguish

Answer 11

Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.

Question 12

Estimate

Answer 12

Obtain an approximate value.

Question 13

Identify

Answer 13

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.

Question 14

Outline

Answer 14

Give a brief account or summary.

Question 15

Analyse

Answer 15

Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.

Question 16

Comment

Answer 16

Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.

Question 17

Compare

Answer 17

Give an account of similarities between two (or more) items or situations,
Referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Question 18

Compare and
Contrast

Answer 18

Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more)
items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Question 19

Construct

Answer 19

Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.

Question 20

Deduce

Answer 20

Reach a conclusion from the information given.

Question 21

Derive

Answer 21

Manipulate a mathematical relationship to give a new equation or
relationship.

Question 22

Design

Answer 22

Produce a plan, simulation or model.

Question 23

Determine

Answer 23

Obtain the only possible answer.

Question 24

Discuss

Answer 24

Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of
arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

Question 25

Evaluate

Answer 25

Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.

Question 26

Explain

Answer 26

Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.

Question 27

Predict

Answer 27

Give an expected result

Question 28

Show

Answer 28

Give the steps in a calculation or derivation.

Question 29

Sketch

Answer 29

Represent by means of a diagram or graph (labelled as appropriate). The
Sketch should give a general idea of the required shape or relationship, and should include relevant features.

Question 30

Solve

Answer 30

Obtain the answer(s) using algebraic and/or numerical and/or graphical
methods.

Question 31

Suggest

Answer 31

Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer.