Download UP tips from the Evaluators – Absolute Verbs

UP tips from the Evaluators – Absolute Verbs
Written by Carol Patton, FPSP Program Director
A large amount of FPS evaluation discussion revolves around Step 2 –
Underlying Problem and the use of absolute verbs. Actually, there are not that
many absolute verbs used in FPS. The dictionary defines absolute as free from
imperfection; perfect. The most common absolute verbs found in student booklets
are guarantee, eliminate, insure, ensure, stop, prevent, and prohibit. These
verbs indicate that the key verb phrase mandate will be done with no possibility
of failure.
It is difficult to stop prejudice or prevent discrimination especially in a global
context. Future scene writers are asked to think globally in developing the future
scenes. Placing the verb help before any of these verbs does NOT make a
difference. HELP is not a helping verb and should not be used as such.
Additionally, do not use educate because everything is education!
Many evaluators spend too much time
determining whether the verb is absolute or
not. The verbs maintain, establish,
supervise, standardize, convince, and
provide are not absolute verbs. When in
doubt, check the dictionary rather than
relying on your personal interpretation.
The goal of evaluation is to give points, not
take them away.