Command Word Taxonomy - GCSE Chemistry
The following table details the key action verbs and instructions used across exam assessments to guide student responses, along with their precise operational definitions.
Chemistry Command Verbs and Definitions
| Command Word | Assessment Definition |
|---|---|
| Add / Label | Provide markings, symbols, or text descriptors onto a given diagram, graph, or data table. |
| Calculate | Solve mathematically to find a numerical value. Showing formula and intermediate steps is required. |
| Comment on | Evaluate multiple pieces of data or trends to draw a reasoned conclusion or judgment. |
| Complete | Fill in missing values, sections, or lines in a partially finished table or illustration. |
| Deduce | Extract a logical conclusion using the evidence or clues presented. |
| Describe | Provide a detailed narrative of a process or pattern. Points should be linked sequence-wise without needing explanation of why. |
| Determine | Establish a quantitative result directly from data or show the mathematical procedure to find it. |
| Design | Formulate a step-by-step experimental method or setup based on scientific concepts. |
| Discuss | • Pinpoint the core topic, debate, or scientific conflict in the question. • Explore multiple perspectives or dimensions of the subject matter. • Examine the situation thoroughly through argument and scientific reasoning. |
| Draw | Construct a sketch, diagram, or outline using freehand or drawing tools. |
| Estimate | Produce a rough calculation or approximate value derived from data trends or figures. |
| Evaluate | Critically analyze data, techniques, or theories. Weigh benefits against drawbacks to make a well-supported final decision in context. |
| Explain | Provide scientific reasoning or justification for a fact. Clarify why something happens, using theories or mathematical steps. |
| Give / State / Name | Recall and present a brief, direct fact, definition, or term without further elaboration. |
| Give a reason / reasons | Provide the underlying cause or justification for a pre-stated fact or observation. |
| Identify | Select and point out specific features, data points, or details from a provided source. |
| Justify | Offer strong evidence, arguments, or data to back up a statement or calculation. |
| Plot | Construct a graph by mapping data coordinates onto axes, including scale labels and drawing a line of best fit. |
| Predict | Forecast a future outcome or value based on known trends or principles. |
| Show that | Demonstrate step-by-step that a given statement or value is true. |
| Sketch | Create a rough, freehand representation. For graphs, show axis labels and shape trends without precise scale plots. |
| State what is meant by | Define a scientific term or phrase clearly in your own words. |
| Suggest | Apply scientific principles to offer a reasonable hypothesis or solution for an unfamiliar scenario. |
| Analyse data/graph to explain | Study data or graphs closely to extract and justify an explanation of the underlying scientific trend. |
| What / Why / Which | Core interrogatives used to direct choices in multiple-choice queries. |