Directive Words & Question Demand

Overview

Directive words tell you what kind of answer is expected; matching the answer to the directive is essential for marks.

Key points

• Discuss: explain different aspects and give a reasoned conclusion.
• Examine: look closely at the issue, its causes and implications.
• Analyse: break into parts and explain relationships.
• Critically examine/evaluate: weigh strengths and weaknesses and give a judgement.
• Comment: give an opinion supported by reasons.
• Elucidate/explain: make clear with examples; enumerate: list with brief explanation.

Practice MCQs

1. From the perspective of definition and scope, which one of the following statements about Directive Words & Question Demand is correct?

   1. Discuss asks for a reasoned treatment of major dimensions, while examine demands closer scrutiny of how/why a proposition holds.
   2. All directive words require exactly the same answer structure and degree of judgment.
   3. Directive Words & Question Demand is unrelated to institutions, processes or real-world applications.
   4. Directive Words & Question Demand has no exceptions or limitations in exam analysis.

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   Answer: (a) Discuss asks for a reasoned treatment of major dimensions, while examine demands closer scrutiny of how/why a proposition holds.. Discuss asks for a reasoned treatment of major dimensions, while examine demands closer scrutiny of how/why a proposition holds.

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2. Consider the following statements on Directive Words & Question Demand, focusing on definition and scope: 1. All directive words require exactly the same answer structure and degree of judgment. 2. Discuss asks for a reasoned treatment of major dimensions, while examine demands closer scrutiny of how/why a proposition holds. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

   1. 1 only
   2. 2 only
   3. Both 1 and 2
   4. Neither 1 nor 2

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   Answer: (b) 2 only. Statement 2 is correct; Statement 1 is a common misconception.

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More topics in this chapter

• Use of Diagrams, Maps & Tables