These command terms indicate the depth of treatment required for a given assessment statement. These command terms will be used in examination questions, so it is important that students are familiar with the following definitions.
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 (for example, intercept) clearly indicated. |
| Solve |
Obtain an answer using algebraic and/or numerical methods. |
| Suggest |
Propose a hypothesis or other possible answer. |