IB Lit Command Terms

Analyze

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

Comment

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

Compare and contrast

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

Describe

give a detailed account

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 of the strengths and limitations

Examine

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

Explain

Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.

Explore

Undertake a systematic process of discovery.

Interpret

Use knowledge and understanding to recognize trends and draw conclusions from given information

Investigate

Observe, study, or make a detailed and systematic examination, in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.

Justify

Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.

Present

Offer for display, observation, examination or consideration.

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.