Command words

Question 1

Assess

Answer 1

Use evidence to determine the relative significance of something.
Give consideration to all factors and identify which are the most
important.

Question 2

Evaluate

Answer 2

Measure the value or success of something and ultimately provide a
substantiated judgement/conclusion. Review information and then
bring it together to form a conclusion, drawing on evidence such as
strengths, weaknesses, alternatives and relevant data.

Question 3

Discuss

Answer 3

Explore the strengths and weaknesses of different sides of an
issue/question. Investigate the issue by reasoning or argument.

Question 4

Examine

Answer 4

Break something down into individual components/processes and say how each one individually contributes to the question’s theme/topic and how the components/processes work together and interrelate.

Question 5

Explain

Answer 5

Provide a reasoned explanation of how or why something occurs. An
explanation requires a justification/exemplification of a point. Some
questions will require the use of annotated diagrams to support
explanation.

Question 6

Suggest

Answer 6

Apply understanding to provide a reasoned explanation of how or
why something may occur. A suggested explanation requires a
justification/exemplification of a point.

Question 7

Compare

Answer 7

Find the similarities and differences of two elements given in a
question. Each response must relate to both elements, and must
include a statement of their similarity/difference.

Question 8

Describe

Answer 8

Give an account of the main characteristics of something or the steps
in a process. Statements in the response should be developed but do
not need to include a justification or reason.