GCSE Command Terms and Their Meanings

Front

Identify/State/Name

Back

Recall or select one or more piece(s) of information.

Front

Define

Back

State the meaning of the term.

Front

Calculate

Back

Produce a numerical working, showing the relevant working if asked.

Front

Draw/plot

Back

Create a graphical representation of geographical information.

Front

Label

Back

Add a label to a resource, graphic or image.

Front

Describe

Back

Give an account of the main characteristics of something or the steps in a process.

Front

Compare

Back

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

Front

Explain

Back

Provide a reasoned explanation of how or why something occurs. An explanation requires a justification/exemplification of a point.

Front

Suggest

Back

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

Front

Assess (8 marks)

Back

Use evidence to determine the relative significance of something. Consider factors and identify the most important.