Command terms: Explain vs Discuss/Evaluate
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Flip to reveal answersWhat is a command term?
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All 11 Flashcards — Command terms: Explain vs Discuss/Evaluate
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Question
What is a command term?
Answer
The instruction word (explain, evaluate, discuss...) that tells you what kind of answer to give.
Question
Explain (AO2) vs Evaluate (AO3)?
Answer
Explain = make an idea clear, no judgement. Evaluate = argue, weigh and reach a judgement.
Question
Which command terms are AO2 (explain)?
Answer
Explain, describe, outline — make it clear, no judgement.
Question
Which command terms are AO3 (evaluate)?
Answer
Evaluate, discuss, to what extent, assess — argue and reach a judgement.
Question
How do you structure an Explain [10]?
Answer
Define the idea, unpack its parts, show the reasoning behind it, and give a clear example.
Question
How do you structure an Evaluate [15]?
Answer
Set out views in tension, bring objections, weigh them, and reach a reasoned judgement.
Question
What does 'to what extent' ask for?
Answer
How far a claim holds — a measured, reasoned judgement, not a flat yes or no.
Question
The number-one part (a) mistake?
Answer
Evaluating too early — judgement belongs in part (b) and earns nothing in (a).
Question
The number-one part (b) mistake?
Answer
Just re-explaining the concept — part (b) marks are only for argument and evaluation.
Question
The shape of a Papers 2 & 3 question?
Answer
Two parts on one concept: (a) Explain [10] then (b) Evaluate/Discuss [15].
Question
First thing to do with any question?
Answer
Underline the command term and name the job — explain or evaluate.
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Full study notes for Command terms: Explain vs Discuss/Evaluate
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Command terms: Explain vs Discuss/Evaluate
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