Command terms
Command terms for global politics
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.
Task: can you sort the list into which command terms are used for which questions?
Paper 1: question 1, 2, 3, 4 Paper 2: any question
Command term -- Assessment objective level (this will tell you which type of question will use the command term) -- Definition
Analyse AO2 Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.
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.
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.
Describe AO1 Give a detailed account.
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.
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.
Outline AO1 Give a brief account or summary.
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.