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Test Taking Vocabulary
Dr. Dimple J. Martin, Reading/Language Arts, K-5
Vocabulary Can Make or Break Assessment
The task of preparing students for standardized tests in the social studies is daunting. The
breadth of the content in each discipline allows a vast range of questions. Students (even
those who are well-prepared) may feel a high level of anxiety.
A teacher’s goal is to help students approach these tests with a degree of confidence,
without spending undue class time "teaching to the test."
Overcoming Language Hurdles
One major hurdle for the student is the "evaluative" or "task" word that often appears
before or within a test question. If students do not understand the examiner's expectations
(often conveyed through these words), their chances of giving wrong answers increase.
Another hurdle for the student is the language peculiar to each social studies discipline.
The student unfamiliar with these "discipline-related" words is at a disadvantage.
Attention to vocabulary can pay off in improved test scores.
Examine the Evaluative/Task words. Do your students know what each term asks them to
do?
Evaluative/Task Words Students Should Be Familiar With
Analyze
Systematically and critically examine each of the facts.
Compare
Show how the facts or ideas are similar.
Contrast
Show how the facts or ideas are different.
Define
Set forth the meaning or make something clear.
Discuss
Present a detailed argument or consideration.
Evaluate
Determine the value, significance, or worth of.
Identify
Establish the essential characteristics of.
Illustrate
Make clear by citing examples.
Interpret
Present the subject at hand in understandable terms.
Infer
Draw a conclusion based on given facts; predict, generalize.
Justify
Show or prove to be right or reasonable.
Sequence
Arrange in meaningful order, beginning to end.
Summarize
Explain the main points.
Synthesize
Combine the parts into a coherent whole.
Trace
Review in detail, step by step.
Integrating Evaluative/Task Words in Class Assignments
Merely studying the table above will be insufficient to prepare most students for
