Here is a summary of how the HSC Verbs are approached in Chemistry:
Verb
NESA Definition
Chemistry approach
Account for
state reasons for, report on.
Consider the molecular mechanisms that underpin the reactions or observations.
Analyse
Identify components and the relationship
between them; draw out and relate
implications.
Usually for graphs or data, describe notable observations and any relationships
between them.
Assess
Make a judgement of value, quality, outcomes,
results or size
Usually for long response questions. You will be required to make a judgement
based on pros and cons, without a certain criteria to adhere to. Very open-ended
Compare
Show how things are similar or different
For Chemistry, these are often best done in the form of a table. E.g. Column 1
similarities, column 2 differences.
Critically
analyse/evaluate
Add a degree or level of accuracy depth,
knowledge and understanding, logic,
questioning, reflection and quality to
(analyse/evaluate)
For Chemistry, these responses have to consider the molecular mechanisms that
underpin the reactions or observations. Often, for scenario questions, these
responses also consider the societal, economic and environmental implications
from the reactions.
Describe
Provide characteristics and features
The easiest (and lowest band) questions. Note what you see or know.
Discuss
Identify issues and provide points for and/or
against
Unlike evaluate/assess questions, you DO NOT need to make a judgement, but
you still need to list the issues and provide arguments for and against the topic.
Evaluate
Make a judgement based on criteria; determine
the value of
While you still need to make a judgement, these questions focus more on
whether or not objectives are being reached based on set criteria or standards.
Explain
Relate cause and effect; make the relationships
between things evident; provide why and/or
how
Identify the molecular mechanisms underpinning your observations and draw out
the relationship between theory and observations.
Justify
Support an argument or conclusion
Consider the chemical properties and structures that underpin the conclusion. To
strengthen your response consider the alternative scenario and how it could turn
out worse than the original scenario.