Science 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 of 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, object, 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, 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