Introduction
One of the biggest challenges students face in IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) is handling command terms. These are the instructional words in exam questions that tell you how to answer. For the 2026 first assessment, examiners expect students to know the meaning of each command term and to tailor answers accordingly.
Misinterpreting a command term is one of the most common reasons students lose marks. For example, answering a “Discuss” question with just a definition or a “Compare” question with only descriptions will prevent you from reaching the top bands.
Quick Start Checklist for ESS Students
When revising command terms, make sure you can:
- Define each command term accurately.
- Recognize the difference between low-level and high-level terms.
- Use structured strategies for common terms.
- Apply examples to match the demand of the question.
- Practice with past papers and RevisionDojo resources.
Levels of Command Terms
IB command terms fall into three broad levels:
- Level 1 (Knowledge/Understanding)
- Define, Describe, Outline, Identify.
- Level 2 (Application/Analysis)
- Explain, Compare, Distinguish, Suggest.
- Level 3 (Synthesis/Evaluation)
- Discuss, Evaluate, To what extent, Justify, Examine.
Examiners expect HL students in particular to master Level 3 terms.
Most Common Command Terms in ESS
1. Define
- Give a precise meaning.
- Example: “Define the term carrying capacity.”
2. Explain
- Provide reasons or mechanisms.
- Example: “Explain how deforestation affects the carbon cycle.”
3. Compare
- Highlight both similarities and differences.
- Example: “Compare intensive and extensive farming systems.”
4. Distinguish
- Show clear differences between terms.
- Example: “Distinguish between renewable and non-renewable resources.”
5. Discuss
- Present a balanced argument with different perspectives.
- Example: “Discuss the role of international agreements in addressing climate change.”
6. Evaluate
- Assess strengths, weaknesses, and overall effectiveness.
- Example: “Evaluate the effectiveness of the Montreal Protocol.”
7. To what extent
- Judge the degree to which a statement is valid.
- Example: “To what extent is population growth the main driver of sustainability challenges?”
Strategies for Answering Command Terms
- Define/Outline/Describe: Be brief, precise, and factual. Avoid over-explaining.
- Explain: Use cause-and-effect language (“because,” “this leads to”).
- Compare/Contrast: Use a structured format with clear similarities and differences.
- Discuss/Evaluate: Always bring in case studies and balance pros/cons.
- To what extent: Take a stance, but acknowledge alternative viewpoints.
Command Terms in Exams
Paper 1
- Usually low- to mid-level terms (Define, Explain, Compare).
- Applied to data from the case study booklet.
Paper 2
- More high-level terms (Discuss, Evaluate, To what extent).
- Require extended essay-style answers with examples.
Exam Tips
- Underline the command term in the exam. It reminds you of what is being asked.
- Match your structure to the term. For example, “Compare” requires similarities AND differences.
- Don’t under-answer high-level terms. “Discuss” and “Evaluate” require depth and case studies.
FAQs
1. Do I need to memorize all command terms?
Yes. Examiners expect precise understanding of each.
2. Are command terms the same at SL and HL?
Yes, but HL questions often use more evaluative terms like “Discuss” and “To what extent.”
3. Could I lose all marks if I ignore the command term?
Yes. Misinterpreting the command term can prevent you from reaching higher markbands, even with good knowledge.
Conclusion
Command terms are the key to unlocking marks in ESS exams. By mastering their definitions and tailoring your answers to the demand of each question, you’ll avoid common mistakes and maximize your score in the 2026 first assessment.
RevisionDojo Call to Action:
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