3.7. Focus on keywords and key phrases (Test taking skills)
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Identify keywords in CMA exam questions and explain their significance.
- Use keywords to guide clear, complete written responses
- Respond effectively to exam questions by addressing the keywords directly.
- Provide constructive feedback on peer responses to improve clarity and completeness.
- Reflect on the role of keywords in test-taking and how to apply this knowledge in exam preparation.
Warm-Up
Discussion (Whole-Class)
- What is a keyword?
- Why is it important to find keywords in test questions?
- Can you give an example of a word that tells you to explain something?
- How can keywords help you understand what the question is really asking?
Part 2: Key word in CMA exam
Keyword Matching
Identifying Keywords in CMA Exam Questions: Highlighting Keywords
In your group, read through the sample CMA exam questions provided by your instructor. Highlight or underline the keywords and key phrases in each question. Use the table below to organize your findings.
| Sample Question | Keywords/Key Phrases | What They Indicate |
|---|---|---|
| Example: “Describe the function of a stethoscope in patient care.” | Describe, function, stethoscope, patient care | Explain how the stethoscope is used and why it is important. |
Choose one or two questions from your group’s discussion to share with the class. Be prepared to explain:
-
- The keywords you identified.
- What the keywords indicate about the expected answer.
Part 3: Responding to Questions Using Keywords
Use the sample questions below. For each question:
- Identify the keywords.
- Write a brief response that directly addresses the keywords.
Example:
Question: Of the following, which would a certified medical assistant typically be able to perform when assisting the physician in the exam room?
- a. Assist with minor procedures
- b. Start an IV for therapy
- c. Administer medications by the intravenous route
- d. All of the above.
Keywords: a certified medical assistant, importance, perform, when assisting the physician
Response: When a certified medical assistant is assisting a physician in an exam room, they typically assist with minor procedures. Certified medical assistants need to be knowledgeable on the scope of their practice in the state they are practicing in. What a CMA can do varies from state to state. However, they are never allowed to start an IV or administer medications by the IV, these fall well outside there purview.
Now, do the same for the following three questions
- When washing hands, the three most important factors include:
-
- a. Antibacterial soap, length of time spent and hot water
- b. Friction, soap and warm running water
- c. Position of the hands, friction and water temperature
- d. Length of time spent, type of soap, and running water
2. In a healthcare facility, which of the following agencies or organizations work to set the standards for the safety of the employees?
-
- a. OSHA
- b. NLN
- c. AMA
- d. JCOH
3. When a clinic writes a statement which sets the level of care that is to be provided, it would be considered which of the following?
-
- a. Mission
- b. Standard
- c. Objective
- d. Requirement
Individually, do the practice test.
Part 4: Wrap up
Reflection and Wrap-Up
- What did you learn about the importance of keywords in exam questions?
- How will you use this knowledge to prepare for the CMA exam?
- Write down one strategy you will use to identify and respond to keywords in future exams:
