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What the words mean in an academic context

What is required of you in an assessment when this/these word(s) is/are


used
Knowledge and understanding Demonstrate a thorough grasp of facts, principles and concepts, logical
explanation of facts etc.
Application (link theory to practice) Choose and integrate facts/theories/ and or concepts and principles in support of
the work presented
Analysis Examine things in close detail or Explain things in terms of range and depth,
accuracy, interpretation, consistency etc.
Synthesis Create new knowledge, product, thinking by being imaginative/innovative/creative
Critical evaluation Discuss issues in terms of range and depth; weigh up the evidence e.g. for or
against, substantiate and give value and own judgement e.g. on the issue being
discussed, investigated or on own practice and performance.
Account for Explain why things happen and give reasons for such.
Compare Highlight any similarities between two or more items and consider the implications
Contrast Draw out the differences between two or more items or arguments which are in
opposition; state whether the differences are significant or not
Comment on Identify and talk/write about key/main factual issues.., do not include your
personal opinion
Discuss Talk or write about, give arguments for and against include implications
Distinguish Highlight the differences between two items or issues
Explain Make clear why ….
Interpret Give meaning of and show relevance of the information or data in relation to other
items/materials.
Justify Give or provide (valid) evidence to support an idea/argument/choice, etc. Include
reasons why you chose or reached that decision. Also, include reasons why other
may reach a different conclusion.
Narrate State what happened; give an account of or tell a story…
Relate Demonstrate a link or connection or show similarities..
Summarise Highlight the main/key points. Avoid unnecessary details.
Response complexity Present a complex and effective response to a given task or situation or context to
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be expected for a basic task.


Versatility and resourcefulness Adapt ideas to suit various situations, seeks out and make effective use of possible
alternative resources to reach or achieve a solution.
Problem solving and decision Identify the problem, set and test out a hypothesis, propose possible solutions to
making the problem, correctly solve the problem.
Collaboration and team-working, Make effective contribution to the work of the team, provide support and
including leadership encouragement to other team members, lead by example etc.
Relating work to wider contexts Apply theories/principles and work ideas to other context/situations e.g. social
interactions, meetings etc.
Enterprise and entrepreneurship Take initiative, translate/convert ideas into action/reality/profitable business(es)
Communication (oral, textual or Communicate in clear language and correct use of grammar, articulate your views
other forms) and present materials clearly, use the quality support aids when making an oral
presentation.
Structure Present your work using a standard or a given format - introduction, hypothesis,
objectives, results, discussion - (development of the theme - research, analysis,
application, synthesis, argument, evaluation), conclusion, referencing.
Argument Present a case in a logically sequenced, coherent, consistent manner.
Referencing Source and reference your work in the standard or give style, as well as give a
range of and make correct use of relevant references, and meet the minimum
numbers of references required.
Adherence/Compliance with health Demonstrate awareness of and compliance with the relevant health and safety
and safety regulations• regulations and procedures by working in a safe manner, and the ability to take
due care for own safety and safety of others
Professional/Subject specific Demonstrate professional skills and capabilities e.g. nursing/health professions =
requirement good attending, listening and observing skills.

Note: This list is intended as example; it is not an exhaustive list.


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