Definitions of the common operative verbs used in the grading criteria

Pass verbs          

Describe

Give a clear description that includes all the relevant features – think of it as ‘painting a picture with words’

Define

Clearly explain what a particular term means and give an example, if appropriate, to show what you mean

Design

Create a plan, proposal or outline to illustrate a straightforward concept or idea

Explain

Set out in detail the meaning of something, with reasons. More difficult than describe or list, so it can help to give an example to show what you mean. Start by introducing the topic then give the ‘how’ or ‘why’

Identify

Point out or choose the right one or give a list of the main features

Illustrate

Include examples or a diagram to show what you mean

Interpret

Define or explain the meaning of something

List

Provide the information in a list, rather than in continuous writing

Outline

Write a clear description but not a detailed one

Plan

Work out and plan how you would carry out a task or activity

State

Write a clear and full account

Summarise

Write down or articulate briefly the main points or essential features

Merit verbs

Analyse

Identify separate factors, say how they are related and how each one contributes to the topic

Assess

Give careful consideration to all the factors or events that apply and identify which are the most important or relevant

Compare/

Contrast

Identify the main factors that apply in two or more situations and explain the similarities and differences or advantages and disadvantages

Demonstrate

Provide several relevant examples or related evidence which clearly supports the arguments you are making. This may include showing practical skills

Design

Create a plan, proposal or outline to illustrate a relatively complex concept or idea

Explain in detail

Provide details and give reasons and/or evidence to clearly support the argument you are making

Justify/how /why

Give reasons or evidence to support your opinion or view to show how you arrived at these conclusions

Distinction verbs

Appraise

Consider the positive and negative points and give a reasoned judgement

Assess

Make a judgement on the importance of something – similar to evaluate

Comment critically

Give your view after you have considered all the evidence. In particular decide the importance of all the relevant positive and negative aspects

Criticise

Review a topic or issue objectively and weigh up both positive and negative points before making a decision

Draw Conclusions

Use the evidence you have provided to reach a reasoned judgement

Evaluate

Review the information then bring it together to form a conclusion. Give evidence for each of your views or statements

Evaluate critically

Decide the degree to which a statement is true or the importance or value of something by reviewing the information. Include precise and detailed information and assess possible alternatives, bearing in mind their strengths and weaknesses if they were applied instead