Evaluate vs Discuss vs To What Extent: IB Diploma Extended Writing
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
- Present strengths (advantages, benefits, evidence in favour)
- Present limitations (weaknesses, drawbacks, evidence against)
- Reach a judgement or conclusion based on the balance
- 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.
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
- Present different perspectives or arguments
- Consider multiple factors or hypotheses
- Offer a balanced treatment (not one-sided)
- 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.
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
- Assess how far an argument or claim is valid
- Present evidence for the argument
- Present evidence against or limitations
- 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.
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.
Based on IB Diploma Programme command terms. Check your subject guide for subject-specific guidance.
Written by
Tutopiya Team
Related Articles
IB CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service): Explained for Students and Parents
What is CAS? Hours, learning outcomes, CAS project and reflection. A complete guide to Creativity, Activity, Service.
IB Common Misconceptions and Grey Areas: Myths vs Facts
IB myths debunked—difficulty, university recognition, Indian admissions, who can do the IB. Grey areas explained for parents and students.
IB Core Explained: EE, TOK and CAS Together
The IB core—Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS. How they work together and contribute to the diploma.