Students should be familiar with the following key terms and phrases used in examination questions, which are to be understood as described below.
Although these terms will be used frequently in examination questions, other terms may be used to direct students to present an argument in a specific way.
Command term
Assessment objective level
Definition
Analyse
AO2
Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.
Compare
AO3
Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Compare and contrast
AO3
Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Contrast
AO3
Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Define
AO1
Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.
Describe
AO1
Give a detailed account.
Discuss
AO3
Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
Distinguish
AO2
Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.
Evaluate
AO3
Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.
Examine
AO3
Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue.
Explain
AO2
Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.
Identify
AO1
Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.
Justify
AO3
Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.
Outline
AO1
Give a brief account or summary.
Suggest
AO2
Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer.
To what extent
AO3
Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound argument.