Why evaluation-style command terms matter

Evaluate, Discuss and To what extent are Level 3 command terms in the IB Diploma. They require you to make a judgement or balanced argument, not just describe or list. These appear in Papers 2 and 3, in Internal Assessments, and in Extended Essays. Marks are often awarded using levels of response descriptors—depth and structure matter.

Evaluate: weigh up strengths and limitations

IB definition

Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.

What to do

1. Present strengths (advantages, benefits, evidence in favour)
2. Present limitations (weaknesses, drawbacks, evidence against)
3. Reach a judgement or conclusion based on the balance
4. Support with evidence and examples

Structure

• Introduction: Outline the issue
• Strengths: 2–3 points with evidence
• Limitations: 2–3 points with evidence
• Conclusion: Judgement—overall, to what degree is it valid/effective?

Common mistake

Only listing strengths or only limitations. Evaluate requires both, plus a clear conclusion.

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Discuss: balanced review with range of arguments

IB definition

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.

What to do

1. Present different perspectives or arguments
2. Consider multiple factors or hypotheses
3. Offer a balanced treatment (not one-sided)
4. Reach a conclusion supported by evidence

Structure

• Introduction: Set out the issue
• Body: Present different arguments/factors (for and against, or multiple angles)
• Conclusion: Your view, clearly stated and supported

Common mistake

Only presenting one side. Discuss expects a range of views and a supported conclusion.

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To what extent: judge the degree of validity

IB definition

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.

What to do

1. Assess how far an argument or claim is valid
2. Present evidence for the argument
3. Present evidence against or limitations
4. Conclude with a degree: “To a great extent…”, “To a limited extent…”, “Partly…”

Structure

• Introduction: Restate the claim/argument
• In support: Evidence and reasoning that supports it
• Against / limitations: Evidence that qualifies or contradicts it
• Conclusion: “To a [great/limited/partial] extent, because…”

Common mistake

Answering “yes” or “no” without judging the degree. “To what extent” asks for a nuanced conclusion.

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Quick comparison

Command term	Focus	Conclusion type
Evaluate	Strengths and limitations	Judgement on overall merit
Discuss	Range of arguments/factors	Balanced conclusion with evidence
To what extent	Degree of validity	”To a great/limited/partial extent…”

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports IB Diploma Programme preparation and Extended Essays. Explore IB resources or book a free trial.

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Based on IB Diploma Programme command terms. Check your subject guide for subject-specific guidance.

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