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20 Formative Assessment Examples (+ Download) - Prodigy PDF

The document provides definitions and interpretations for commonly used task words in assignment and exam questions. It lists key words such as "analyze", "evaluate", "explain", and "critique" along with explanations of what each word means in the context of academic tasks. The document is intended to help students understand what is being asked of them in assignments and exams by clarifying the meaning behind common task words.

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AHMED KHAN
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159 views2 pages

20 Formative Assessment Examples (+ Download) - Prodigy PDF

The document provides definitions and interpretations for commonly used task words in assignment and exam questions. It lists key words such as "analyze", "evaluate", "explain", and "critique" along with explanations of what each word means in the context of academic tasks. The document is intended to help students understand what is being asked of them in assignments and exams by clarifying the meaning behind common task words.

Uploaded by

AHMED KHAN
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Task Words

Here are some commonly used key words in assignment/examination questions and
instructions:

KEY WORDS INTERPRETATION

account for give reasons for, explain

analyse break an issue down into its component parts, then examine
each part and describe the relationships between them

argue make a case based on evidence. Develop a logical sequence of


discussion, either presenting opposing views or supporting a
particular attitude

assess consider the value and significance of an issue, event or other


matter, weighing up the positive and negative features

compare show similarities and differences between characteristics or


qualities

contrast emphasise the differences between characteristics or qualities

critically evaluate make a judgment weighing up positive and negative features to


arrive at an evaluation of the significance or usefulness of
something

critically analyse examine each part of an issue or argument, weighing up positive


or negative features and the relationships between features or
parts

criticise analyse and make a judgment, weighing up positive and negative


features. Base your judgment on criteria and give examples of
how the criteria apply

(for more task words, please see overleaf)


critique see criticise

describe tell about features, factors, qualities, aspects

define set out the meaning (of a term, word); describe (sometimes
explain)

discuss see account for; also to weigh up and compare several views on
an issue, develop a thesis, attitude or viewpoint

enumerate specify and list main features

evaluate consider various arguments to reach a judgment on significance


or value

explain give reasons for, clarify cause and effect; reason and result

indicate point out and list main features or factors

identify select and list main features or factors

interpret explain what is meant and relate this to the topic

illustrate give examples; explain

justify give reasons for a course of action, thesis or attitude

outline describe the main points

prove demonstrate by logical argument

(give a) rationale for give reasons, explain why

review provide an overview; also to make a critical analysis

summarise give a concise description

Adapted from the following source:

Morley-Warner, T. 2009, Academic writing is… A guide to writing in a university context,


Association for Academic Language and Learning, Sydney, p. 116.

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