Command terms for language and literature
Command terms with definitions
Students should be familiar with the following key terms and phrases used in examination questions, which are to be understood as described below. Although these terms will be used frequently in examination questions, other terms may be used to direct students to present an argument in a specific way.
Analyze
Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.
Comment
Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.
Compare
Give an account of similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Compare and contrast
Give an account of the similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Contrast
Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Discuss
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.
Examine
Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue.
Explain
Give a detailed account, including reasons or causes.
Explore
Undertake a systematic process of discovery.
Justify
Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.
To what extent
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.
K. Guru Charan Kumar www .eegurumantra.com