Command Terms For History

IB History Command Terms

What are they asking you to do?!?!?!

Analyze

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 situation, referring to both (or all)of them throughout.

 

Compare and Contrast

 

Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (or all) throughout.

 

Contrast

 

Give an account of the difference between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (or all) throughout.

 

Define

 

Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.

 

Describe

 

Give a detailed account.

Discuss

 

Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors, or hypotheses.  Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

 

Distinguish

 

Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.

 

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 interrelations of the issue.

 

Explain

 

Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.

 

 

Identify

 

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.

 

Justify

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

 

To what extent

 

Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly with appropriate evidence and sound argument. 

 

 

 

Check out this Quizlet set!  See how well you know these command terms!

Command terms flash cards

 

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