Level 1 Objectives
A student meets level 1 objectives when they, “Demonstrate an understanding of: scientific facts and concepts, scientific methods and techniques, scientific terminology, and methods of presenting scientific information6.” These objectives will be tested using the “command terms” listed below:
Define - Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase or physical quantity
Draw - Represent by means of pencil lines.
Label - Add labels to a diagram.
List - Give a sequence of names or other brief answers with no explanation.
Measure - Find a value for a quantity.
State - Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation.
Level 2 Objectives
A student meets level 2 objectives when they, “Apply and use: scientific facts and concepts, scientific methods and techniques, scientific terminology to communicate effectively, and appropriate methods of presenting scientific information.” These objectives will be tested using the “command terms” listed below:
Annotate - Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.
Apply - Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in a new situation.
Calculate - Find a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working (unless instructed not to do so).
Describe - Give a detailed account.
Distinguish - Give the differences between two or more different items.
Estimate - Find an approximate value for an unknown quantity.
Identify - Find an answer from a given number of possibilities.
Outline - Give a brief account or summary.
Level 3 Objectives
A student meets level 3 objectives when they, “Construct, analyse and evaluate: hypothesese and research questions and predictions, scientific methods and techniques, and scientific explanations.” These objectives will be tested objectively in the summative exams using the “command terms” listed below and, unlike objectives 1 and 2 above, level 3 objectives are also embedded in the “internal assessments,” which you will do throughout the two year program.
Analyse - Interpret data to reach conclusions.
Comment - Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.
Compare - Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items, referring to both (all) of them throughout. [Note: often contrasts/differences earn more credit than similarities; emphasize differences - unless the question directs you toward similarities.]
Construct - Represent or develop in graphical form.
Deduce - Reach a conclusion from the information given.
Derive - Manipulate a mathematical relationship(s) to give a new equation or relationship.
Design - Produce a plan, simulation or model.
Determine - Find the only possible answer.
Discuss - Give an account including, where possible, a range of arguments for and against the relative importance of various factors, or comparisons of alternative hypotheses.
Evaluate - Assess the implications and limitations.
Explain - Give a detailed account of causes, reasons or mechanisms.
Predict - Give an expected result.
Show - Give the steps in a calculation or derivation.
Sketch - Represent by means of a graph showing a line and labelled but unscaled axes but with important features (for example, intercept) clearly indicated.
Solve - Obtain an answer using algebraic and/or numerical methods.
Suggest - Propose a hypothesis or other possible answer.