Command Verbs

Question 1

Define

Answer 1

set out the meaning of a word or phrase

Question 2

Describe

Answer 2

set out the characteristics of the subject.

The higher the level of relevant detail, such as correct temperatures, in the answer, the higher the grade achieved

Question 3

Comment on

Answer 3

Define + describe + identify what it’s used for + possibly examples (cost/style/quality influence/ in which cases it’s used)

Question 4

Explain why

Answer 4

description of what is done, how it is done and reasons why it is done in that way

clear connection between the description and the reasoning (the ‘why’)

by using connecting words or phrases such as because…. therefore…. as a result…

Question 5

Explain how

Answer 5

detailed description of what is done and how it is done or how it works.

clear connection between the description and the reasoning (the ‘how’),

by using connecting words or phrases such as because…. therefore…. as a result…

Question 6

Application (“how” and “why”)

Answer 6

For each part: Define+describe in context + explain why/how

Conclusion

Question 7

Identify and explain why

Answer 7

List+short reason why for each

Question 8

Compare

Answer 8

0. Identify what if there is a choice to be made
1. Describe and explain similarities
2. Describe and explain how they differ

Use “however… although… yet…
nevertheless… in contrast… “

Question 9

Evaluate
/assess

Answer 9

Describe/define what is being evaluated
Explain why it’s done
Advantages
Disadvantages
Conclusion: judge