IB Economics Command Terms

Analyse

Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure. (AO2)

Apply

Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given problem or issue. (AO2)

Calculate

Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working. (AO4)

Comment

Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation. (AO2)

Compare

Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout. (AO3)

Compare and contrast

Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout. (AO3)

Construct

Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form. (AO4)

Contrast

Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout. (AO3)

Define

Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity. (AO1)

Derive

Manipulate a mathematical relationship to give a new equation or relationship. (AO4)

Describe

Give a detailed account. (AO1)

Determine

Obtain the only possible answer. (AO4)

Discuss

Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence. (AO3)

Distinguish

Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items. (AO2)

Draw

Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or smooth curve. (AO4)

Evaluate

Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations. (AO3)

Examine

Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue. (AO3)

Explain

Give a detailed account including reasons or causes. (AO2)

Identify

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities. (AO4)

Justify

Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or

conclusion. (AO3)

Label

Add labels to a diagram. (AO4)

List

Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation. (AO1)

Measure

Obtain a value for a quantity. (AO4)

Outline

Give a brief account or summary. (AO1)

Plot

Mark the position of points on a diagram. (AO4)

Show

Give the steps in a calculation or derivation. (AO4)

Show that

Obtain the required result (possibly using information given) without the formality of proof. ______ questions do not generally require the use of a calculator. (AO4)

Sketch

Represent by means of a diagram or graph (labelled as

appropriate). The _____ should give a general idea of the required shape or relationship, and should include relevant features. (AO4)

Solve

Obtain the answer(s) using algebraic and/or numerical and/or graphical methods. (AO4)

State

Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation. (AO1)

Suggest

Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer. (AO2)

To what extent

Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound argument. (AO3)

AO1

Assessment Objective:

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of specified content

- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the common SL/HL syllabus

- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of current economic issues and data

- At HL only: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the higher level extension topics

AO2

Assessment Objective:

Demonstrate application and analysis of knowledge and understanding

- Apply economic concepts and theories to real-world situations

- Identify and interpret economic data

- Demonstrate the extent to which economic information is used effectively in particular contexts

- At HL only: Demonstrate application and analysis of the extension topics

AO3

Assessment Objective:

Demonstrate synthesis and evaluation

- Examine economic concepts and theories

- Use economic concepts and examples to construct and present an argument

- Discuss and evaluate economic information and theories

- At HL only: Demonstrate economic synthesis and evaluation of the extension topics

AO4

Assessment Objective:

Select, use and apply a variety of appropriate skills and techniques

- Produce well-structured written material, using appropriate economic terminology, within specified time limits

- Use correctly labelled diagrams to help explain economic concepts and theories

- Select, interpret and analyse appropriate extracts from the news media

- Interpret appropriate data sets

- At HL only: Use quantitative techniques to identify, explain and analyse economic relationships