Command Terms for IB Geography
Analyse AO3 break down in order to bring out the essential elements or
structure
Annotate AO4 add brief notes to a diagram or graph
Classify AO2 arrange or order by class or categories
Compare AO3 give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or
situations (referring to both (all) of them throughout)
Compare AO3 give an account of similarities and differences between two (or
and more) items or situations (referring to both (all) of them
contrast throughout)
Construct AO2, display information in a diagrammatic or logical form
AO4
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, for example, a word, phrase, concept
or physical quantity
Describe AO1 give a detailed account
Determine AO1, obtain the only possible answer
AO4
Discuss AO2, offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of
AO3 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/items.
Draw AO4 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.
Command Terms for IB Geography
Estimate AO1 obtain an approximate value
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 find an answer from a number of possibilities
Justify AO3 give valid reasons or evidence for an answer or conclusion.
Label AO4 add labels to a diagram
Outline AO1 give a brief account or summary
State AO1 give a specific name, value or other brief answer without
explanation or calculation
Suggest AO2 propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer
To what AO3 consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept.
extent Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and
supported with empirical evidence and sound argument.
Assessment Objectives
Knowledge and understanding of specified content
Application and analysis of knowledge and understanding
Synthesis and evaluation
Selection, use and application of a variety of appropriate skills
and techniques
Command Terms for IB Geography