Teaching Physics for Every Learner

Many pupils lose marks in physics not because they know nothing, but because they do not understand what the question wants.

Command words need to be taught clearly and often.

Describe means say what happens.
Explain means say why it happens.
Calculate means use numbers and show working.
Compare means say what is similar and different.
Suggest means use your physics in a new situation.
Evaluate means make a judgement using evidence.

Before pupils answer, get them into the habit of asking:

What is the command word?
What kind of answer is needed?
How many marks is it worth?

This takes only a few seconds, but it can stop pupils writing the wrong type of answer.

Exam language should not be saved for Year 11. It should be part of normal lessons from Year 7 onwards. When pupils understand the question, they have a much better chance of showing the physics they actually know.