Overview
Understanding the command words used in Cambridge 9699 A-Level Sociology is not just a vocabulary exercise; it is fundamental to scoring well. These words are instructions that tell you precisely what the examiner expects, dictating the depth of knowledge, analysis, and evaluation required for your answer. Misinterpreting a command word is one of the most common reasons students fail to achieve the marks their sociological knowledge otherwise deserves.
The Hierarchy of Command Words
For Cambridge syllabus 9699, in 9699 Sociology, command words can be organised into a rough hierarchy, from those requiring simple recall to those demanding sophisticated evaluation. At the lower end, you have words like Define and Describe, which test your knowledge base. Moving up, Explain asks you to show understanding of causal relationships. At the top are words like Assess and Evaluate, which require you to construct a balanced argument and make a supported judgement. Recognising where a command word sits in this hierarchy is the first step to structuring a successful answer and managing your time effectively in the exam.
Low-Tariff Questions: Precision and Recall
For Cambridge syllabus 9699, command words like Define, State, and Describe are typically used for lower-tariff questions. The key here is precision and conciseness. A question asking you to 'Define the term patriarchy' requires a short, clear, and sociologically accurate definition, not a lengthy essay on feminist theory. For 'Describe' questions, you should provide a detailed account of the characteristics of a social phenomenon, study, or trend. Avoid waffle and focus on delivering the specific factual information or definitions requested, as these questions reward direct recall of syllabus content.
Mid-Tariff Questions: Explaining and Applying
For Cambridge syllabus 9699, questions using the command word Explain require more development than a simple description. To 'explain' is to make something clear by giving reasons, showing causes, and demonstrating how concepts connect. For example, 'Explain the reasons for the rise in the divorce rate' demands that you go beyond just listing factors. You must elaborate on *how* and *why* factors like changes in the law, declining stigma, and rising secularisation have contributed to this trend. A strong answer will apply sociological concepts and evidence, including relevant theories or studies, to build a logical and coherent account.
High-Tariff Questions: Analysis and Argument
For Cambridge syllabus 9699, when a question asks you to Analyse, you are being asked to deconstruct a topic. This involves breaking down a concept, issue, or sociological argument into its constituent parts and examining the relationship between them. An analysis requires you to identify the underlying assumptions and logic of a particular viewpoint or theory. For instance, analysing the Marxist view of education means not just stating what it is, but breaking down the concepts of the ideological state apparatus and the correspondence principle, showing how they function together to reproduce class inequality. It is a more detailed and forensic examination than an explanation.
The Evaluative Trio: Assess, Discuss, and Evaluate
For Cambridge syllabus 9699, these command words sit at the top of the hierarchy and are reserved for the highest-tariff essay questions. Assess, Discuss, and Evaluate all demand a balanced argument where you consider different viewpoints, theories, and evidence. Your task is to present both sides of a debate—for example, weighing Functionalist perspectives on the family against Feminist critiques. To reach the top mark bands, you must support your points with named theorists and empirical studies. Crucially, your essay must end with a concluding paragraph that offers a supported judgement, weighing the evidence you have presented to decide which argument is more convincing. Mastering this structure is essential for success, as outlined in our general guide to [Cambridge command words explained](/blog/cambridge-command-words-explained).
The Role of Theorists and Evidence
For Cambridge syllabus 9699, across all questions that go beyond simple definitions, demonstrating your knowledge of sociological theory and evidence is non-negotiable. For any question using Explain, Analyse, Assess, or Evaluate, you must integrate relevant concepts, perspectives (e.g., Functionalism, Marxism, Interactionism, Postmodernism), and the work of specific sociologists. Simply naming a theorist is not enough; you must accurately apply their ideas to the question. Understanding how this is rewarded is a key part of exam preparation, and you can learn more about the specific [9699 marking criteria](/subjects/9699) to see how concepts, application, and evaluation are weighted.
Frequently asked questions
This section covers Frequently asked questions — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.
Is there a big difference between 'Assess' and 'Evaluate'?
In practice, very little. Both command words require a balanced review of different arguments followed by a supported conclusion. 'Assess' might imply weighing the relative importance or contribution of different factors, while 'Evaluate' focuses on judging the strengths and weaknesses of a proposition. However, the essay structure remains the same.
How many theorists do I need for an 'Evaluate' question?
Focus on quality over quantity. A strong answer will typically explore two or three competing theoretical perspectives in depth, using named sociologists and studies as evidence. A well-developed debate between a Marxist and a Functionalist view, for example, is far more effective than a superficial list of names.
Can I get good marks on an 'Explain' question without evaluating?
Yes, absolutely. An 'Explain' question does not require evaluation, and you should not waste time providing it. Your marks will come from the clarity, depth, and accuracy of your explanation, showing how and why something occurs by linking concepts and evidence. If you want to see how your own answers measure up, you can always mark a paper with us.