IB Command Terms

Command term	Assessment objective	Definition
Analyse	AO2	Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.
Annotate	AO4	Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.
Apply	AO2	Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given problem or issue.
Calculate	AO4	Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working.
Comment	AO2	Give a judgement based on a given statement or result of a calculation.
Compare	AO3	Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Compare and contrast	AO3	Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Complete	AO4	Add missing information/data.
Construct	AO4	Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.
Contrast	AO3	Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Define	AO1	Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.
Demonstrate	AO2	Make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical application.
Describe	AO1	Give a detailed account.
Determine	AO4	Obtain the only possible answer.
Discuss	AO3	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.
Distinguish	AO2	Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.
Draw	AO4	Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph using a pencil. A ruler should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale and points plotted and joined in a straight line or smooth curve.
Evaluate	AO3	Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.
Examine	AO3	Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue.
Explain	AO2	Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.
Identify	AO1	Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.
Justify	AO3	Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.
Label	AO4	Add labels to a diagram (or to complete the missing parts in a diagram).
List	AO1	Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.
Outline	AO1	Give a brief account or summary.
Recommend	AO3	Present an advisable course of action with appropriate supporting evidence/reason in relation to a given situation, problem, or issue.
Plot	AO4	Mark the position of points on a diagram.
Prepare	AO4	Put given data or information from a stimulus/source into a suitable format.
State	AO1	Give a specific name, value, or other brief answer without explanation or calculation.
Suggest	AO2	Propose a solution, hypothesis, or possible answer.
To what extent	AO3	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.