Exam command words

Calculate

• Generate a numerical answer,

  with workings shown

• Identify similarities and

  differences

• Give an account, including all the

  relevant characteristics, qualities,

  or events

• Show in an explicit way

Compare

• To do or carry out

• To originate, e.g. to produce a solution to a problem

• Identify similarities and differences

• Plan and presentation of ideas to show the layout/function/workings/object/system/process

Discuss

• Present/set out data/information

• Give an account that addresses a range of ideas and arguments

• To look at, inspect, or scrutinise carefully, or in detail. Investigate closely

• To give account of the purposes or reasons

Evaluate

• Establish a value using a suitable measuring instrument or technique

• Translate information into recognisable form. Convey one’s understanding to others, eg in a performance. Explain the meaning of something

• Make clear by using examples or provide diagrams

• Make a qualitative judgement taking into account different factors and using available knowledge/experience/evidence

Justify

• Establish a value using a suitable measuring instrument or technique

• Supply

• Recognise, list, name or otherwise characterise

• Present a reasoned case for actions or decisions made

Identify

• Recognise, list, name or otherwise characterise

• Look back upon and appraise, relate to, e.g. to stated aims.

• To bring into existence. Give rise to by intellectual or creative ability: to make or manufacture

• Carefully choose as being the most suitable for a task or purpose

Measure

• A description setting out main characteristics/points

• Establish a value using a suitable measuring instrument or technique

• To say that an event or action will happen in the future, as a result of knowledge, experience or evidence

• Look back upon and appraise, relate to, e.g. to stated aims.

Outline

• Take part in

• Present/enact/demonstrate practically

• A systematic series of actions

• A description setting out main characteristics/points

State

• To sum up or to put things into your own words or to create a précis of the information discussed

• Apply the information provided or apply prior learning. To put

  into service or action. Employ for a given purpose

• Express in precise terms, express in unequivocal terms

• Carefully choose as being the most suitable for a task or

  purpose

Suggest

• Give possible alternatives,

  produce an idea, put forward, e.g.

  an idea or plan, for consideration

• To provide appropriate word(s) or term(s)

• Take part in

• Produce an exposition/resumé for an audience, eg at the conclusion of the project to demonstrate what has been done and the outcome