California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) English Practice Exam

What does it mean to "Describe"?

1. To discuss the implications of a concept

2. To provide an account with detailed characteristics

3. To summarize the key arguments of a text

4. To give recommendations based on findings

The correct answer is: To provide an account with detailed characteristics

To "describe" means to provide an account with detailed characteristics of something. This involves painting a vivid picture through the use of specific details and observations, enabling the reader or listener to clearly understand what is being depicted. A good description communicates information about the attributes, qualities, and nuances of the subject, allowing the audience to visualize or comprehend it more fully. In different contexts, such as essays or reports, describing can include explaining how something works, outlining its features, or recounting its appearance and behavior in a detailed manner. This skill is essential in various forms of writing, as it enhances the clarity and engagement of the text by facilitating a deeper understanding of the topic at hand.