1. Exam Tips
Learning Objective:
• To understand the exam command words
• To become familiar with the mark scheme for essay questions
• To work out your exam/revision game plan!
Starter: How many sections
is the exam divided into &
how long should you spend
on each?

2. Exam Structure
Section A
• Multiple choice (5x1mark)
• Short answer (5x1mark)
• Interpreting graphs (2x1mark)
• 4 markers (2x4mark)
30 mins
20 mins
10 mins
Section B
• 2 scenarios (2x 4 marks)
• circle correct answer
• Explain why
• Explain rights or responsibilities
Section C
• Essay (12 marks)

3. Command Words
What do these words mean?
• State
• Describe
• Explain
• Evaluate

4. State = Give a very short definition or example e.g.
Q: State one source of legal advice
A: Citizens Advice Bureau
n.b. if the question uses the word “state” it:
• Will only be worth 1 point
• Doesn’t need a sentence

5. Describe = “Paint a picture with words” using examples
where possible.
Q: Describe a law that is important to you, your human
rights and your community
A: The Human Rights Act is a law that protects your human
rights. It includes rights for everyone to things such as
legal representation, personal freedom and the right to an
identity.
n.b. if the question uses the word “describe” it:
• Will usually be worth 2 points within a 4 mark
question in Section A

6. Explain = Give reasons for something (using the word
because) in your answer will help to make sure that
you give reasons).
Q: Explain why people should obey the law in a
democracy
A: Because laws are made by elected representatives
chosen by the people. In this way, laws represent the views
of most of the people and so should be obeyed.
n.b. if the question uses the word “explain” it:
• Will be part of a 4 marker in Section A or
• Explaining your reasons for choosing the option in the Section
B scenario or
• Explaining the rights or responsibility in Section B

7. Evaluate = Decide how far you think a viewpoint or
opinion is valid or how far something is successful or
effective.
Q: Evaluate how far you agree that the UK is a nation
with a wide cultural diversity.
A:The UK does have a wide cultural diversity because. For
example…On the other hand…Overall I would say that …
because…
If a question has the word “Evaluate” it will:
* Probably be a 12 mark essay!

8. 1) State one subject that you like at school.
2) Describe the content of the Citizenship
course.
3) Explain why the school has entered you for
the Citizenship GCSE.
4) Evaluate how far you agree with the
statement “Citizenship is the best subject in
the school.”

9. Look through the mock paper and find all
the command words.
Did you follow the commands in the
correct way?

10. Match up the essay with the
comment & grades.