alberta education directing words

math vocabs needed to do well on tests

algebraically

using mathematical procedures that involve symbols or variables to represent values

analyze

make a mathematical examination of parts to determine the nature, proportion, function, interrelationships, and characteristics of the whole

classify

arrange items or concepts in categories according to shared qualities or characteristics

compare

examine the character or qualities of two things by providing characteristics of both that point our their mutual similarities and differences

conclude

make a logical statement based on reasoning and/or evidence

describe

give a written account of a concept

determine

find a solution, to a specified degree, of accuracy, to a problem, by showing appropriate formulas, procedures, and/or calculations

evaluate

find a numerical value or equivalent for an equation, formula, or function

explain

make clear what is not immediately obvious or entirely known, give the cause or reason for; make known in detail

illustrate

make clear by giving an example. the form of the example will be made clear in the question. e.g. a word description, sketch, or diagram

interpret

provide a meaning of something; present information, in a new form that adds meaning to the original meaning

justify

indicate why a conclusion has been stated by providing supporting reasons and/or evidence that form a mathematical argument

model

represent a concept or situation in a concrete or symbolic way

prove

establish the truth or validity of a statement by giving actual evidence or logical argument

sketch

provide a drawing that represents the key features or characteristics of an object or graph

solve

give a solution to a problem

verify

establish , by substation for a particular use or by geometric comparison, the truth of the statement

LCM

the smallest common multiple of all the numbers in the set

GCF

the largest common factor of all the numbers in the set, must go in evenly

Prime number

a number that has two distinct factors; 1 and itself

composite number

has 3 or more factors