KEY WORDS IN LITERACY
Key Words What is it asking me to do? Sample questions
Compare Write the similarities or difference Compare the games of soccer
between two things. and hockey.
Define Write out the meaning of the word. Define the word courageous.
Describe Give details so the reader can make a picture Describe the dream vacation.
in their mind of what you are writing about.
Determine Write about how you solved the problem. How do you determine if you
have been given the correct
change?
Explain Write specific details to teach someone: Explain how to take OC
how something works Transpo from your house to
why something works the Rideau Centre
why something works the way it does Explain why it snows in Ottawa
but not in Florida
Explain why
Identify Find the information that is asked to Identify the who,
be found and use it in your answer. what, where, when, and