Notes

Glossary of Command Terms
Classification of command terms


AO1—knowledge and understanding of specified content

AO2—application and analysis of knowledge and understanding

AO3—synthesis and evaluation

AO4—selection, use and application of a variety of appropriate skills and techniques.

There is a progression in demand from AO1 to AO3, while AO4 terms are specific to particular skills and techniques, and also to examination questions.

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.

The assessment objectives (AOs) listed in the table are those referred to in the economics syllabus.

Analyse AO2
Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.

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.

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.

Derive AO4
Manipulate a mathematical relationship to give a new equation or relationship.

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 AO4
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.

Measure AO4
Obtain a value for a quantity.

Outline AO1
Give a brief account or summary.

Plot AO4
Mark the position of points on a diagram.

Show AO4
Give the steps in a calculation or derivation.

Show that AO4
Obtain the required result (possibly using information given) without the formality of proof. “Show that” questions do not generally require the use of a calculator.

Sketch AO4
Represent by means of a diagram or graph (labelled as appropriate). The sketch should give a general idea of the required shape or relationship, and should include relevant features.

Solve AO4
Obtain the answer(s) using algebraic and/or numerical and/or graphical methods.

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.