Command Term Activity Key

What is the definition of 'Define'?

• List all the possible uses of a word or phrase.

• Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.

• Provide a clear and concise description of the sequence of pathways or concepts.

• Explain how to use a word in a sentence.

What does 'Draw' mean in the context of command terms?

• Summarize the main points of a topic in bullet form.

• Write a detailed explanation of a concept using your own words.

• Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or a smooth curve.

• List all possible outcomes of an experiment without any diagrams.

What does the command term 'Label' require you to do?

• Draw a diagram from memory.

• Add labels to a diagram.

• Explain the process in detail.

• Add labels to a diagram with annotations.

What does 'List' mean as a command term?

• Summarize the main points in your own words.

• Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.

• Provide a single, comprehensive response.

• Explain each answer in detail.

What does 'Measure' mean as a command term?

• Predict the outcome of a situation.

• Obtain a value for a quantity through calculations.

• Obtain a value for a quantity through observations.

• Explain the process of an experiment.

What does the command term 'State' require you to do?

• List the process step by step.

• Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation.

• Give a specific name, value or other brief answer with explanation or calculation.

• Explain the reasoning behind your answer in detail.

What does 'Annotate' mean as a command term?

• Draw a diagram of a process.

• Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.

• Write a short response on a topic.

• List all the steps involved in an experiment.

What does 'Calculate' mean as a command term?

• List the main points without detail.

• Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working.

• Describe a process in detail.

• Explain the meaning of a term or concept.

What does 'Describe' mean as a command term?

• List the main points only.

• Give a detailed account.

• Explain why something happens.

• Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.

What does 'Distinguish' mean as a command term?

• Summarize the main points.

• List all the features of a concept.

• Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.

• Explain the process in detail.