Decoding the Assessment – Student Worksheet
Read the Question Like an Examiner
Level: GCSE / A Level / T Level
Time: 20–30 minutes
Use: In class or as homework
Part 1 – Spot the Command Words
Circle the command word(s) in each question below. Then match it to what it’s asking you
to do:
Question Command Word What it Means
1. Explain how foundation Describe in detail how or
depth is affected by soil why something happens.
conditions.
2. Identify one fire- Name or point out clearly –
resistant material used in no explanation needed.
construction.
3. Analyse how Break into parts and
Shakespeare presents explore how the writer
power in Macbeth. builds meaning.
4. Compare raft Show the similarities and
foundations and strip differences between two
foundations. things.
5. Evaluate the Give your judgement
effectiveness of the supported by evidence –
drainage system shown. how well it works.
Part 2 – Strip Out the Red Herrings
Read the following question:
"A new housing estate is being planned on a former industrial site. The client wants an eco-
friendly design, with timber frames and solar panels. The ground has a high water table.
Explain the most suitable foundation type."
✅ Underline the information you actually need to answer.
❌ Cross out anything you think is a red herring (distracting but not relevant).
Then answer this:
What is the real question here? _____________________________
Read the Question Like an Examiner
Level: GCSE / A Level / T Level
Time: 20–30 minutes
Use: In class or as homework
Part 1 – Spot the Command Words
Circle the command word(s) in each question below. Then match it to what it’s asking you
to do:
Question Command Word What it Means
1. Explain how foundation Describe in detail how or
depth is affected by soil why something happens.
conditions.
2. Identify one fire- Name or point out clearly –
resistant material used in no explanation needed.
construction.
3. Analyse how Break into parts and
Shakespeare presents explore how the writer
power in Macbeth. builds meaning.
4. Compare raft Show the similarities and
foundations and strip differences between two
foundations. things.
5. Evaluate the Give your judgement
effectiveness of the supported by evidence –
drainage system shown. how well it works.
Part 2 – Strip Out the Red Herrings
Read the following question:
"A new housing estate is being planned on a former industrial site. The client wants an eco-
friendly design, with timber frames and solar panels. The ground has a high water table.
Explain the most suitable foundation type."
✅ Underline the information you actually need to answer.
❌ Cross out anything you think is a red herring (distracting but not relevant).
Then answer this:
What is the real question here? _____________________________
