Command Terms


Objective 1

  • Define     
    • Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase or physical quantity
  • Draw     
    • Represent by means of pencil lines
  • Label     
    • Add labels to a diagram
  • List     
    • Give a sequence of names or other brief answers with no explanation
  • Measure     
    • Find a value for a quantity
  • State
    • Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation

 

Objective 2

  • Annotate     
    • Add brief notes to a diagram or graph
  • Apply     
    • Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in a new situation
  • Calculate     
    • Find a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working (unless instructed not to do so)
  • Describe     
    • Give a detailed account
  • Distinguish     
    • Give the differences between two or more different items
  • Estimate     
    • Find an approximate value for an unknown quantity
  • Identify     
    • Find an answer from a given number of possibilities
  • Outline     
    • Give a brief account or summary


Objective 3

  • Analyse     
    • Interpret data to reach conclusions 
  • Comment     
    • Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation
  • Compare     
    • Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items, referring to both (all) of them throughout
  • Construct     
    • Represent or develop in graphical form
  • Deduce     
    • Reach a conclusion from the information given
  • Derive     
    • Manipulate a mathematical relationship(s) to give a new equation or relationship
  • Design     
    • Produce a plan, simulation or model
  • Determine     
    • Find the only possible answer
  • Discuss     
    • Give an account including, where possible, a range of arguments for and against the relative importance of various factors, or comparisons of alternative hypotheses
  • Evaluate     
    • Assess the implications and limitations
  • Explain     
    • Give a detailed account of causes, reasons or mechanisms
  • Predict     
    • Give an expected result
  • Show     
    • Give the steps in a calculation or derivation
  • Sketch     
    • Represent by means of a graph showing a line and labelled but unscaled axes but with important features (e.g. intercept) clearly indicated
  • Solve     
    • Obtain an answer using algebraic and/or numerical methods
  • Suggest     
    • Propose a hypothesis or other possible answer