AO and Command Terms

Analyse

AO2

Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.

Annotate

AO4

Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.

Apply

AO2

Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given

problem or issue.

Calculate

AO4

Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the

working.

Comment

AO2

Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.

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.

Complete

AO4

Add missing information/data.

Construct

AO4

Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.

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.

Demonstrate

AO2

Make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical application.

Describe

AO1

Give a detailed account.

Determine

AO4

Obtain the only possible answer.

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.

Draw

AO4

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

smooth curve.

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.

Label

AO4

Add labels to a diagram.

List

AO1

Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.

Outline

AO1

Give a brief account or summary.

Plot

AO4

Mark the position of points on a diagram.

Prepare

AO4

Put given data or information from a stimulus/source into a suitable format.

Recommend

AO3

Present an advisable course of action with appropriate supporting evidence/reason in relation to a given situation, problem or issue.

State

AO1

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

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.