IB Command Terms

When IB exams ask you to DISCUSS, what are you being asked to do?

• Study something carefully by looking at all the parts individually and in relationship to each other

• Talk or write about a topic in detail, taking into account different ideas and opinions. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

• Give a detailed account of something

When IB exams ask you to answer TO WHAT EXTENT, what are you being asked to do?

• Provide an answer from a list of possibilities.

• Give a concise account of the main idea(s) while leaving out extra details and examples.

• Consider the strengths & limitations of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound argument.

When IB exams ask you to answer to COMPARE AND CONTRAST, what are you being asked to do?

• Give an account of the similarities & differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.

• Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue

• Propose a solution, hypothesis or possible answer

When IB exams ask you to EVALUATE, what are you being asked to do?

• Assess the value of an idea based on the strengths and limitations.

• Give a detailed response that includes reasons and details.

• Give valid reasons or evidence to support your conclusion

When IB exams ask you to EXAMINE, what are you being asked to do?

• Give a brief account or summary

• Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept, or physical quantity

• Consider an argument or concept carefully, looking at details closely

When IB exams ask you to ANALYZE, what are you being asked to do?

• Assess the value of an idea based on the strengths and limitations

• Study something carefully by looking at all the parts individually and in relationship to each other

• Give a concise account of the main idea(s) while leaving out extra details and examples