Command Terms in Science

 

IB Science Command Terms

What are they asking me to do?!?!?!?!

 

 

 

Define

Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase or physical quantity.

Draw

Represent by means of pencil lines.

Label

Add labels to a diagram.

List

Give a sequence of names or other brief answers with no explanation.

Measure

Find a value for a quantity.

State

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

Annotate

Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.

Apply

Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in a new situation.

Calculate

Find a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working (unless instructed not to do so).

Describe

Give a detailed account.

Distinguish

Give the differences between two or more different items.

Estimate

Find an approximate value for an unknown quantity.

Identify

Find an answer from a given number of possibilities.

Outline

Give a brief account or summary.

Analyse

Interpret data to reach conclusions.

Comment

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

Compare

Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items, referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Construct

Represent or develop in graphical form.

Deduce

Reach a conclusion from the information given.

Derive

Manipulate a mathematical relationship(s) to give a new equation or relationship.

Design

Produce a plan, simulation or model.

Determine

Find the only possible answer.

Discuss

Give an account including, where possible, a range of arguments for and against the relative importance of various factors, or comparisons of alternative hypotheses.

Evaluate

Assess the implications and limitations.

Explain

Give a detailed account of causes, reasons or mechanisms.

Predict

Give an expected result.

Show

Give the steps in a calculation or derivation.

Sketch

Represent by means of a graph showing a line and labelled but unscaled axes but with important features (for example, intercept) clearly indicated.

Solve

Obtain an answer using algebraic and/or numerical methods.

Suggest

Propose a hypothesis or other possible answer.

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Science Command Terms Flash Cards