INSTRUCTIONAL TERMS

Analyze / Distinguish between different parts
Examples: appraise, compare, contrast, criticize, differentiate, discriminate, distinguish, examine, experiment, test
Apply / Use information in a new way
Examples: choose, demonstrate, dramatize, employ, illustrate, interpret, operate, schedule, sketch, solve, use, write
Assess / Make a judgement about the degree to which an idea, a statement, or a situation is valid
Compare / Describe the similarities and differences in two or more statements, events, situations, problems, or qualities
Contrast / Describe the differences in two or more statements, situations, problems, or qualities
Create / Create a new product or point of view
Examples: assemble, construct, create, design, develop, formulate, write
Criticize/Evaluate / Judge a statement or situation carefully, giving both positive and negative aspects and giving the results of your judgement
Examples: appraise, argue, defend, judge, select, support, value, evaluate
Define / State the meaning of a word, term or concept concisely and clearly
Describe / Communicate an impression or account by giving detailed features of a person, place, event, or situation; do not make a judgement
Diagram / Give a graphic answer by means of a labelled drawing, picture, chart, or plan
Discuss / Examine and analyse the details of a subject, exploring the arguments for and against
Explain / Show “how to”; clarify
Illustrate / Use words to clarify a point or statement or use a picture, diagram, or example to clarify a point or statement
Interpret / Give the meaning of a statement in order to make it plain and understandable
Outline / Organize the main and supporting points and ideas of a topic in a way that stresses relationships and classification of points and ideas
Prove / Use factual evidence, clear examples, and logical reasons to show that a statement or situation is true
Relate / Show how situations or items are connected with one another
Remember / Recalling or remembering information
Examples: define, duplicate, list, memorize, recall, repeat, reproduce, state
Review / Examine a subject critically, analysing and commenting on the important statements and give examples
Examples – An evaluation of a book or film, which reflects your personal reactions; not a summary
State / Give the main points briefly in logical order
Summarize / State the main points or facts of a subject without judging those points or facts
Trace / Describe the development of a situation or event
Understand / Explain ideas or concepts
Examples: classify, describe, discuss, explain, identify, locate, recognize, report, select, translate, paraphrase

Sources: Information Power Pack: Intermediate Skillsbook, pages 113-114