IB/MYP Command Terms Guide

Summary

In this engaging video, Solomon introduces IB command terms, explaining their importance in exam preparation. He highlights key terms such as 'state', 'define', 'label', and 'analyze', detailing what each requires and offering helpful tips to tackle them effectively. From simple one-word answers to complex analysis and evaluation, Solomon emphasizes the significance of understanding these terms to structure answers appropriately and maximize marks. The video is packed with advice on how to avoid common pitfalls and includes personal insights into navigating tricky IB exam questions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Command terms in IB exams tell you how to answer the question, how long to write, and how many marks the question is worth.
• 😀 'State' command terms require a simple, one-word answer—don't add explanations, as they won't earn extra marks.
• 😀 'Define' requires recalling a definition learned in class, and it's helpful to have a cheat sheet for key terms.
• 😀 'Label' involves identifying parts on a diagram, while 'Annotate' asks for both labeling and extra detail or explanation.
• 😀 'Compare' requires both differences and similarities—make sure to list both to maximize marks.
• 😀 'Outline' asks for a brief account of a topic, usually with a definition and some background explanation.
• 😀 'Deduce,' 'Comment,' and 'Interpret' require you to infer information from given data and connect it with prior knowledge.
• 😀 'Describe' is all about providing detailed observations or explanations of a topic or diagram.
• 😀 'Analyze' involves breaking down data into parts, identifying patterns, and incorporating class knowledge into your answer.
• 😀 'Explain' requires a detailed and thorough account of a concept or process—write as much relevant information as possible.

Q & A

What are IB command terms, and why are they important?

IB command terms are specific words used in exam questions to indicate the type of response required. They guide students on how to answer a question, how detailed the answer should be, and how many marks the question is worth.

How do command terms help in determining the length of an answer?

Command terms help by indicating how long your response should be. More complex command terms typically require longer responses, which are worth more marks.

What is the difference between 'state' and 'define' questions?

'State' questions require a simple, concise answer, often just a word or number. 'Define' questions ask for the recall of a specific definition learned in class, and are slightly more detailed than 'state' questions.

What is the mistake students often make with 'state' questions?

Students often mistakenly explain or justify their answer in 'state' questions, which is unnecessary and can waste time that could be better spent on other questions.

What’s the difference between 'label' and 'annotate' questions?

'Label' questions require you to mark something on a diagram, typically with an arrow pointing to the correct part. 'Annotate' questions, however, require additional explanation about the labeled parts, such as their function or significance.

How should you approach a 'compare' question?

In a 'compare' question, you should list both the similarities and the differences between the two things being compared. A common mistake is only listing the differences, which doesn’t fully address the question.

What does 'outline' mean in the context of an exam question?

When asked to 'outline', you are expected to provide a brief explanation or description of the topic, often with definitions and a bit of background information.

What’s the common mistake students make with 'analyze' questions?

The mistake students often make with 'analyze' questions is failing to break down the information into its fundamental components and recognize patterns or trends.

What is the key difference between 'discuss' and 'evaluate' questions?

'Discuss' questions require a balanced view, addressing multiple perspectives on an issue. 'Evaluate' questions, on the other hand, focus more on assessing the pros, cons, and broader implications of a topic.

How should you approach 'explain' questions, and why are they so challenging?

'Explain' questions require a detailed account of a process or concept. They are challenging because the mark schemes can vary significantly, and sometimes the same question might have different mark schemes depending on how it's phrased.