Command Words (Describe, Explain, Assess, Evaluate)

Describe Command Words

Describe means to give a detailed account of something using clear, factual information. When asked to describe, you should focus on what you see, hear, or know without giving reasons or making judgements.

This involves listing characteristics, features, or patterns in a straightforward way. Avoid explaining why something happens or whether it is good or bad.

For example, if asked to describe a rivers features, you might say:

"The river has a steep gradient in its upper course with narrow valleys and waterfalls. In the middle course, it widens with meanders and floodplains."

Notice this is factual and focused on what is present, not why or how it formed.

Explain Command Words

Explain means to give reasons or causes for a geographical process or event. You must link facts to show how or why something happens.

This involves describing the processes behind a phenomenon and making clear connections between cause and effect.

For example, if asked to explain why flooding occurs, you might say:

"Flooding happens because heavy rainfall increases river discharge beyond the channels capacity. Urban areas with impermeable surfaces cause faster runoff, reducing infiltration and increasing flood risk."

Here, you explain the reasons behind flooding rather than just describing the flood itself.

For instance, when explaining coastal erosion:

• Waves erode the coastline through hydraulic action, where water forces air into cracks.
• Abrasion occurs when sediment scrapes the rock.
• Softer rocks erode faster, causing features like bays to form.

Assess Command Words

Assess means to weigh up the strengths and weaknesses of something, considering different viewpoints or factors. You must provide a balanced judgement based on evidence.

This involves discussing advantages and disadvantages, positive and negative impacts, or comparing different ideas before reaching a conclusion.

For example, when assessing a flood management scheme, you might say:

"Hard engineering like dams effectively controls flooding but is expensive and can harm ecosystems. Soft engineering is cheaper and more sustainable but may be less reliable during extreme events. Overall, a combination of methods is best."

You consider both sides and then give a reasoned view.

Evaluate Command Words

Evaluate means to make a reasoned judgement about the value or success of something, using evidence to support your view.

You must discuss strengths and weaknesses, compare options, and explain why one is better or more effective than others.

For example, when evaluating renewable energy sources, you might say:

"Wind power is clean and sustainable but depends on weather and can affect landscapes. Solar power works well in sunny areas but is less efficient in the UKs climate. Overall, combining different renewables provides a reliable energy mix."

You weigh evidence and give a clear conclusion based on that.

For instance, when describing a river's features, you might say: "The river has a steep gradient in its upper course with narrow valleys and waterfalls. In the middle course, it widens with meanders and floodplains." This is a factual description focusing on observable features.