Overview
Understanding command words is the single most important exam technique for Cambridge A-Level Media Studies (9607). These words are direct instructions from the examiner, telling you precisely how to structure your answer and the level of detail required. Mastering the difference between describing a media product and evaluating its cultural impact is the key to unlocking the higher mark bands. For a general overview, see our guide to [Cambridge command words explained](/blog/cambridge-command-words-explained).
Low-Tariff Words: The Foundation of Your Knowledge
For Cambridge syllabus 9607, command words like Define, State, and Describe are the building blocks of your media knowledge. They test your ability to recall and articulate key terms, concepts, and facts accurately. For example, a question might ask you to 'Describe two features of a public service broadcaster'. This requires a concise, factual answer listing relevant characteristics, not a deep analysis of their funding models. While these questions carry fewer marks, precision is vital; they demonstrate your grasp of the fundamental vocabulary needed for more complex analysis.
Explain: Connecting the Dots
For Cambridge syllabus 9607, moving up in complexity, the command word Explain requires you to go beyond simple description and show your understanding of processes and relationships. It asks for the 'how' or the 'why'. For instance, 'Explain how media organisations use synergy' demands more than a definition of synergy; you must detail the process, using specific examples of how a media conglomerate might use its various assets (film studio, record label, merchandise) to cross-promote a single product. Answering an 'Explain' question successfully involves building a logical chain of reasoning, linking cause and effect clearly.
Analyse: Deconstructing Media for Meaning
For Cambridge syllabus 9607, this is where you demonstrate your core skills as a media student. To Analyse is to break down a media text, theory, or issue into its constituent parts and examine how they work together to create meaning. For example, 'Analyse the representation of gender in the music video you have studied' requires you to deconstruct elements like camerawork, editing, mise-en-scène, and lyrics, using correct media terminology to show how they construct a particular version of masculinity or femininity. Analysis is about showing your working, revealing the mechanics of media construction that are invisible to the casual viewer. A full understanding of what examiners look for is detailed in the official [9607 syllabus materials](/subjects/9607).
Discuss, Evaluate, Assess: The Art of the Argument
For Cambridge syllabus 9607, these high-tariff command words signal that you need to engage in a debate. Questions starting with Discuss, Evaluate, or Assess require you to consider multiple sides of an issue, weigh up evidence, and explore different critical perspectives. For example, 'Evaluate the claim that the internet has created a more democratic public sphere' requires you to present evidence that both supports and challenges this statement. You would need to consider arguments about citizen journalism and access to information, alongside counter-arguments about filter bubbles, misinformation, and the power of tech giants.
A crucial final step for these questions is the supported judgement. After weighing the evidence, you must come to a clear, well-reasoned conclusion that directly answers the question. This isn't a simple summary of your points; it's your final verdict, justified by the arguments you have developed throughout your essay. This ability to synthesise and judge is a key differentiator in how examiners mark a paper and is essential for reaching the top mark bands.
Frequently asked questions
For Cambridge syllabus 9607, the most common error is a mismatch between the command word and the response. This often involves providing a simple description when analysis is required, or offering a one-sided opinion for an 'Evaluate' question. This automatically limits your answer to the lower mark bands, no matter how detailed your knowledge is.
What's the biggest mistake students make with command words?
How much should I write for a 'Discuss' question versus a 'Describe' question?
Let the mark allocation be your guide. A 2-mark 'Describe' question needs a brief, factual answer. A 25-mark 'Discuss' essay requires a detailed, structured argument with multiple points, examples, and a concluding judgement. It's about the depth and complexity of your response, not just the word count.
Do I always need to include my own opinion?
In Media Studies, you should offer a reasoned academic 'judgement' rather than a personal 'opinion'. For high-tariff words like 'Evaluate' or 'Assess', you must weigh the evidence you've presented and form a logical conclusion. This judgement must be explicitly supported by the analysis within your essay, not just stated as your belief.