SQA National 5 Music Concepts Practice Exam

The instruction given to string players to indicate they should use a bow is "Arco." This term is derived from the Italian word for "bow," and it specifically instructs the musician to play the instrument using the bow, creating a smooth and sustained sound.

In contrast, "Pizzicato" refers to the technique of plucking the strings with fingers, which is the opposite of using a bow. "Legato" indicates that the notes should be played smoothly and connected, but it does not specify the technique (bow or pizzicato) to achieve this effect. "Staccato" directs the performer to play the notes in a short, detached manner, again without specifying how to achieve that on the instrument. Thus, "Arco" is the clear and correct choice for indicating the use of a bow.