IB Command Terms for Psychology - Quiz

What does the IB command term 'analyze' mean?

• Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure - level 2

• Summarize the main points without details

• List all possible outcomes

• State your personal opinion

What does the IB command term 'compare and contrast' mean?

• Give an account of the similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout - level 3

• List only the similarities between two items or situations - level 1

• Describe only the differences between two items or situations - level 2

• Summarize the main points of two items without referring to similarities or differences - level 1

What does the IB command term 'describe' mean?

• Give a detailed account - level 1

• List all possible outcomes - level 1

• Explain the reasons behind something - level 2

• Predict what will happen next - level 2

What does the IB command term 'discuss' mean?

• Offer a considered and balanced review that include a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses; opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence - level 3

• State what you think about something, giving reasons for your opinion - level 2

• Give a brief account or summary - level 1

• Show how things are different or not related - level 2

What does the IB command term 'evaluate' mean?

• Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations - level 3

• State the main points in brief - level 1

• Give a detailed account including reasons or causes - level 2

• Present an argument or case - level 2

What does the IB command term 'examine' mean?

• Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue - level 3

• State something clearly and definitely - level 1

• Give a brief account or summary - level 1

• Offer a considered and balanced review - level 2

What does the IB command term 'explain' mean?

• Give a detailed account including reasons or causes - level 2

• List the main points without detail - level 1

• Present an argument for and against - level 3

• State without elaboration - level 1

What does the IB command term 'to what extent' mean?

• Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept; opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound judgement - level 3

• Describe the process or steps involved in a concept or argument - level 1

• List all possible outcomes or results of a concept - level 1

• State the definition of a term or concept without explanation - level 1

What does the IB command term 'state' mean?

• Give specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation - level 1

• Explain in detail with examples and calculations

• Describe the process step by step with reasoning

• Compare and contrast with other command terms

What does the IB command term 'apply' mean?

• Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given problem or issue - level 2

• List all possible outcomes of a situation - level 1

• Describe the process in detail - level 2

• Predict the result without justification - level 1