Unpacking essay questions information + sample essay questions

Key words Description Sample essay questions

How far, How true, To what extent Regardless of what you write, you need to 1. How far has technology influenced
have a thesis statement in your introduction. language learning in the 21st century?
These key words suggest there are various 2. To what extent can cross-cultural
views on and various aspects to the subject. communication be enhanced through
Outline some of them, evaluate their language learning?
strengths and weaknesses, and explore 3. How far can language policy impact
alternatives. multilingualism in a country?
Justify/Explain Regardless of what you write, you need to 1. Explain the importance of incorporating
have a thesis statement in your introduction. project-based learning in language
These key words ask you to argue why classrooms. Provide evidence and
something is the case. examples to support your argument.
2. How can technology be justified as a
valuable tool for enhancing language
acquisition?
3. Explain the role of cultural competence in
language teaching.
Compare, Contrast, Distinguish, Regardless of what you write, you need to 1. Compare the benefits and drawbacks of
Differentiate, Relate Unterscheiden have a thesis statement in your introduction. studying abroad versus studying in one's
All of these words require you to discuss home country.
how things are related to each other. 2. Contrast the educational approaches of
Compare and relate suggest you concentrate public schools and homeschooling.
on similarities, which may lead to a stated 3. Differentiate between two renewable
preference, the justification of which should energy sources, such as solar and wind
be made clear. Contrast, distinguish and power.
differentiate suggest you concentrate on
differences.
Discuss Regardless of what you write, you need to 1. Discuss the ethical considerations
have a thesis statement in your introduction. surrounding artificial intelligence and its
Comment on the quote or topic. You could potential implications on privacy,
take any position. You do not necessarily employment, and human rights.
have to be in favour or against something, 2. Discuss the role of dating apps in shaping
but you could if you wanted to. modern communication patterns and
their impact on relationships.
3. Discuss the following quote by Socrates:
"The only true wisdom is in knowing
you know nothing."
Would/Should Regardless of what you write, you need to 1. Would it be a good idea for schools to
have a thesis statement in your introduction. implement mindfulness and meditation
Provide your opinion. You could argue practices as part of their curriculum?
entirely for or against, OR do both but then 2. Would it make sense to mandate a cap on
come to a conclusion at the end having the number of hours individuals spend
weighed up the arguments. Bear in mind the on social media each day?
short word limit: are there enough words to 3. Would it be a good idea to establish
present both sides? Regardless of what you universal basic income as a social
write, you still need to have a thesis statement. welfare policy?
Evaluate An “evaluate” question asks you to include 1. Evaluate the role of technology in
positive AND negative aspects. You do not education and its influence on student
have to come to a conclusion about which side learning outcomes.
is more persuasive, but you could if you 2. Evaluate the impact of social media on
wanted to. If you feel there are only positive political engagement and democracy.
or negative aspects, you still need to say why 3. Evaluate the significance of ensuring
you feel this way. Regardless of what you cultural diversity in the workplace.
write, you still need to have a thesis statement.