IB biology command terms

distinguish

make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items

estimate

obtain an approximate value

identify

provide an answer from a number of possibilities

outline

give a brief account or summary

analyse

break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure

comment

give a judgement based on a given statement or given statement or result of a calculation

compare

give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout

compare and contrast

give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout

define

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

draw

represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil.

draw (instructions)

- a ruler should be used for straight lines
- diagram should be drawn to scale
- graphs points plotted correctly and joined in a straight line or smooth curve

label

add labels to a diagram

list

give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation

measure

obtain a value for a quantity

state

give a specific name, value or other brief answer explanation or calculation

annotate

add brief notes to a diagram or graph

calculate

obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working

describe

give a detailed account

construct

display information in a diagrammatic or logical form

deduce

reach a conclusion from the information given

design

produce a plan, simulation or model

determine

obtain the only answer

discuss

offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of range of agruments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions /conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence

evaluate

make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations

explain

give a detailed account including reasons or causes

justify

give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion

predict

give an expected result

sketch

represent by means of a diagram or graph. The sketch is a general idea of the required shape or relationship

suggest

propose a solution, hypothesis, or other possible answer