The command verb communicates what a student should do. Describe, explain, compare and justify require different forms of evidence even when the answer length is similar.
Start with a clear plan
Select the verb that matches the skill you want to assess. Include the specific object of the task and make the marks proportional to the number of expected points.
A practical example
'Describe evaporation' asks for a process; 'Explain why wet clothes dry faster on a windy day' asks for a causal connection. Their marking keys should therefore differ.
Review and follow up
Prepare a point-based key that recognises valid alternative wording. Award credit for relevant understanding without requiring students to reproduce the teacher's exact sentence.
Put the guidance into your workflow
Use the Shala Setu question bank guide for the relevant next step. For paper preparation, choose your real board, medium, class, subject and chapters in the app. For jobs or advertising, follow the current account or enquiry instructions rather than assuming that an older announcement is still available.
A quick working checklist
- Confirm the class, subject and teaching goal.
- Check the question, answer and final layout together.
- Use student responses to plan a useful next step.
Useful references
For syllabus and textbook questions, consult the relevant official resource. The classroom examples in this guide are illustrative and are not a prescribed board pattern.