Command terms

Question 1

give a detailed account

Answer 1

describe (A01)

Question 2

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

Answer 2

state (AO1)

Question 3

make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items

Answer 3

distinguish (AO2)

Question 4

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

Answer 4

define (AO1)

Question 5

make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations

Answer 5

evaluate (AO3)

Question 6

give a detailed accound\t including reasons or causes

Answer 6

explain (AO2)

Question 7

consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue

Answer 7

examine (AO3)

Question 8

give an account of similarities AND DIFFERENCES between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout

Answer 8

compare and contrast (AO3)

Question 9

obtain a value for a quantity

Answer 9

measure (AO4)

Question 10

give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion

Answer 10

justify (AO3)

Question 11

give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation

Answer 11

list (AO1)

Question 12

obtain the required result (possibly using information given) without the formality of proof. These questions do not generally require the use of a calculator

Answer 12

show that (AO4)

Question 13

give a brief account or summary

Answer 13

outline (AO1)

Question 14

add labels to a diagram

Answer 14

label (AO4)

Question 15

obtain the answers using algebraic and/or numerical and/or graphical methods

Answer 15

solve (AO4)

Question 16

give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout

Answer 16

compare (AO3)

Question 17

propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer

Answer 17

suggest (AO2)

Question 18

consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropirate evidence and sound argument

Answer 18

to what extent (AO3)

Question 19

provide an answer from a number of possibilities

Answer 19

identify (AO4)

Question 20

give a judgement based on a given statement or result of a calculation

Answer 20

comment (AO2)

Question 21

give the steps in a calculation or derivation

Answer 21

show (AO4)

Question 22

display information in a diagrammatic or logical form

Answer 22

construct (AO4)

Question 23

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

Answer 23

apply (AO2)

Question 24

mark the position of points on a diagram

Answer 24

plot (AO4)

Question 25

give an account of the differences between two (or more) items of situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout

Answer 25

contrast (AO3)

Question 26

manipulate a mathematical relationship to give a new equation or relationship

Answer 26

derive (AO4)

Question 27

break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure

Answer 27

analyse (AO2)

Question 28

obtain the only possible answer

Answer 28

determine (AO4)

Question 29

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 smooth curve

Answer 29

draw (AO4)

Question 30

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

Answer 30

sketch (AO4)

Question 31

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

Answer 31

discuss (AO3)

Question 32

obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working

Answer 32

calculate (AO4)