Science Tests Command Words

Question 1

The word “state”

Answer 1

Simply give a fact
E.g question
State what is meant by a exothermic reaction (1 mark)

Answer: a reaction which releases energy

Question 2

The word suggest?

Answer 2

Suggest:give a reasonable scientific answer

E.g question
“Suggest why the use of biofuels are increasing” (1 mark)

.fossil fuels are running out
.biofuels are more carbon neutral than fossil fuels
.biofuels ma be cheaper

Question 3

Describe?

Answer 3

State the features of something
E.g question
Describe, in terms of electrons, what happens when an atom of sodium reacts with an atom of chlorine

Answer-
An electron moves from the sodium atom to the chlorine atom
This produces a positive sodium ion and a negative ion

Question 4

Explain?

Answer 4

Use SCIENCE to say why something happens
E.g question
Explain why the reaction rate increases at higher temperature

Answer-
Particles have more kinetic energy.
Therefore there are more collisions per second

Question 5

Evaluate?

Answer 5

Use your knowledge and understanding, as well as any information given to consider evidence for and against something. You may also need to give a conclusion

E.g question see photo album evaluate

Question 6

What is a independent variable?

Answer 6

A variable which you can change and control

Question 7

What is a dependent variable?

Answer 7

A variable which changed because of the independent variable