Question

Based on what you know about the root dict, what does the word dictation mean?

Answer 1

The root "dict", means to say, or to speak. So dictation, would mean saying, or speaking words to be written down.
Hope this helps!:)

Answer 2

the activity of taking down a passage that is read aloud by a teacher as a test of spelling, writing, or language skills:

"passages for dictation"

so the answer is Many instructions.