| Discuss |
The word "discuss" will not be used as a directing word on math and science diploma examinations because it is not used consistently to mean a single activity. |
The following words are specific in meaning.
|
| Algebraically |
Using mathematical procedures that involve letters or symbols to represent numbers |
| Analyze |
To make a mathematical, chemical, or methodical examination of parts to determine the nature, proportion, function, interrelationship, etc. of the whole |
| Compare |
Examine the character or qualities of two things by providing characteristics of both that point out their similarities and differences |
| Conclude |
State a logical end based on reasoning and/or evidence |
| Contrast/Distinguish |
Point out the differences between two things that have similar or comparable natures |
| Criticize |
Point out the demerits of an item or issue |
| Define |
Provide the essential qualities or meaning of a word or concept; make distinct and clear by marking out the limits |
| Describe |
Give a written account or represent the characteristics of something by a figure, model, or picture |
| Design/Plan |
Construct a plan; i.e, a detailed sequence of actions for a specific purpose |
| Determine |
Find a solution, to a specified degree of accuracy, to a problem by showing appropriate formulas, procedures, and calculations |
| Enumerate |
Specify one by one or list in concise form and according to some order |
| Evaluate |
Give the significance or worth of something by identifying the good and bad points or the advantages and disadvantages |
| Explain |
Make clear what is not immediately obvious or entirely known; give the cause of or reason for; make known in detail |
| Graphically |
Using a drawing that is produced electronically or by hand and that shows a relation between certain sets of numbers |
| How |
Show in what manner or way, with what meaning |
| Hypothesize |
Form a tentative proposition intended as a possible explanation for an observed phenomenon; i.e., a possible cause for a specific effect. The proposition should be testable logically and/or empirically |
| Identify |
Recognize and select as having the characteristics of something |
| Illustrate |
Make clear by giving an example. The form of the example must be specified in the question; i.e., word description, sketch, or diagram |
| Infer |
Form a generalization from sample data; arrive at a conclusion by reasoning from evidence |
| Interpret |
Tell the meaning of something; present information in a new form that adds meaning to the original data |
| Justify/Show How |
Show reasons for or give facts that support a position |
| Model |
Find a model (in mathematics, a model of a situation is a pattern that is supposed to represent or set a standard for a real situation) that does a good job of representing a situation |
| Outline |
Give, in an organized fashion, the essential parts of something. The form of the outline must be specified in the question; i.e., list, flow chart, concept map |
| Predict |
Tell in advance on the basis of empirical evidence and/or logic |
| Prove |
Establish the truth or validity of a statement for the general case by giving factual evidence or logical argument |
| Relate |
Show logical or causal connection between things |
| Sketch |
Provide a drawing that represents the key features of an object or graph |
| Solve |
Give a solution for a problem; i.e., explanation in words and/or numbers |
| Summarize |
Give a brief account of the main points |
| Trace |
Give a step-by-step description of the development |
| Verify |
Establish, by substitution for a particular case or by geometric comparison, the truth of a statement |
| Why |
Show the cause, reason, or purpose |
