You should be familiar with the following key terms and phrases used in examination questions, which are to be understood as described below. Although these terms will be used frequently in examination questions, other terms may be used to direct students to present an argument in a specific way.
Analyse | Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure. |
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. |
Contrast | Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout. |
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. |
Evaluate | Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations. |
Examine | Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue. |
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. |
See History guide
https://ibpublishing.ibo.org/server2/rest/app/tsm.xql?doc=d_3_histx_gui_1501_1_e&part=6&chapter=1
First examinations 2017
Published January 2015
Published by International Baccalaureate Organization
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© International Baccalaureate Organization 2015