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Doodles
8 Command Words in Exams
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Student knows that name, list, state, and identify all ask for short, direct answers rather than explanations.
Introduction to short-answer command words
Have you ever written a huge paragraph in an exam, only to run out of time later and realize the question was just for 1 mark? This happens when we misunderstand the command words in a question paper.
Let's crack the code so you know exactly what your teacher wants!
Sorting questions by expected answer length
Terms
Definitions
Matching command words to their definitions
Terms
Definitions
Fill in the correct command word in exam stems
Understanding exam questions is a crucial skill for scoring well in your school tests. If a question asks you to the main layers of the Earth, you only need to write their names without writing long paragraphs. When a history question asks you to the causes of the Revolt of 1857, you must provide a detailed account of the events. Sometimes, you are asked to between physical and chemical changes by drawing a comparison table. A geography question might ask you to the capital of India on a political map. If the science teacher wants the exact meaning of photosynthesis, the question will ask you to the term. Finally, if you need to give scientific reasons why a ship floats, the question will ask you to the phenomenon.
Practice writing a direct, short answer
Remember that State means you should provide facts directly and briefly. You do not need to explain why metals have these properties.
Write exactly two facts. Keep it short.
Why shouldn't you include a paragraph explaining why they are shiny?
Flashcards for short-answer command words