Sac’s Sac’s

and and

examsexams

Questions!!!Questions!!!TASK WORDS HOW TO RESPOND

Describe / Explain Questions using these task words are generally seeking factual information rather than any analysis, arguments or conclusions. Such questions often relate to an event or process (eg) the steps to change the constitution

Analyse / Evaluate Questions using these task words are asking for an in-depth discussion / constructive criticism (ie) to outline advantages/disadvantages and reach some sort of conclusion

Critically Analyse Questions using the “critically” task word are seeking your considered, balanced analysis or evaluation – you need to make a judgment on an issue and support this with a discussion of strengths/weaknesses, advantages / disadvantages

Illustrate Use an example or examples

Suggest Questions using this task word are asking you to present reasons, to outline these to show the reader what you know.

Compare / Contrast An outline of similarities (compare) and differences (contrast) (eg) compare and contrast the Adversary and inquisitorial systems...

Questions!!!Questions!!!REMEMBER: Read all of the questions carefully by using the reading time. Use BLUE or BLACK pen!!!! Look out for the ‘AND’ word!!! Don’t miss half the marks because you

only answered one part of the question. Always write in full sentences (no diagrams or dot points) Use keywords that are in the question Rule of thumb = 2 minutes per mark for questions worth 3+ Don’t over write.....you can’t get 8 out of 2. Get to the point and move

on. Space out your answer using new lines for new points to make it clear

and precise for the marker When answering a question worth 5 or more points you need to make

sure you know your answer before you start (especially when asked to give an opinion). Make a plan first even if it is to simply give yourself a focus so you don’t waffle. Make a statement and then back it up.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT!!!!!!!

Questions!!!Questions!!!REMEMBER: S – Statement E – Explanation E – Example E – Explain how the example illustrates the point made (link back)

Eg. Question:

Every year the Commonwealth and State Parliaments make changes to the law. Outline one reason why the law might need to be changed:

Eg. Answer:

S - One reason laws may need to change is due to new technology

E - As technology develops the law may not cover or cater for the changes and may need to be amended.

E - For example, since social networking sites have become popular...cyber bullying......

E - This shows that new laws are needed to.....

Traps!!!Traps!!! Not using the reading timeNot using the reading time Many students will give no explanation and will give an Many students will give no explanation and will give an

example instead of a reasonexample instead of a reason Line fear – the lines are there to try and cater for all students

handwriting...they are not there to make you feel like you need to write an essay or fill every single line.

Many students skip the 2mark questions and go to the larger valued questions...this can lead to a really good 10mark answer but lots of rushed smaller questions which will still add up

Lack of balance in a response – Instead of making one sided claims you need to use language like “some argue...” or “critics claim...”

Lack of exam practice questions – If you don’t practice...you don’t know what you don’t know....PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT!!!!!

GOOD GOOD LUCK!!!!!!LUCK!!!!!!